Big Refits Making a Comeback in 2025 – Cruise Industry News

2025 will see various cruise ships undergoing significant refurbishments with the return of big drydock programs.

Cruise Industry News looks at some of the key projects already announced for the year.

For a complete overview of the global cruise ship drydock market, see the new 2025 Drydock and Refurb Report by Cruise Industry News.

Norwegian Bliss
Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
Capacity: 4,200 guests
Tonnage: 164,600
Year built: 2018
Date: January 2025

Following the Norwegian Encore and the Norwegian Joy, the Norwegian Bliss underwent a significant refurbishment in early 2025.

During the drydock, the Norwegian Cruise Line vessel saw several upgrades to its public areas and facilities. This included the expansion of specialty restaurants, such as Cagney’s and Teppanyaki, and the creation of new spaces like the Horizon Park.

Additional staterooms replaced a portion of the ship’s Observation Lounge, while new three-bedroom suites were added to The Haven by Norwegian.

AIDAdiva
Cruise Line: AIDA Cruises
Capacity: 2,030 guests
Tonnage: 68,500
Year built: 2007
Date: February 2025

The AIDAdiva is currently undergoing a major refurbishment as part of AIDA Cruises’ Evolution Program.

As the first ship to be included in the project, which will see at least three vessels being modernized through 2026, the 2007-built ship is set to spend seven weeks in a drydock at the Chantier Naval de Marseille.

The AIDAdiva is seeing its staterooms upgraded with a new look, as well as an increase in the number of suites onboard. Other changes include the addition of new restaurants, signature bars and activity areas for families with children.

Paul Gauguin
Cruise Line: Paul Gauguin Cruises/Ponant
Capacity: 320 guests
Tonnage: 19,200
Year built: 1997
Date: February 2025

As part of one of the largest refurbishments set to take place in 2025, the Paul Gauguin recently arrived in Singapore for a seven-week drydock.

According to Paul Gauguin Cruises, the multi-million-dollar project introduces sustainable technology upgrades, a contemporary new look for its popular Le Grill restaurant, as well as a reimagined pool deck with shaded cabana areas.

The 1997-built vessel is also getting eight new connecting staterooms and updated soft furnishings throughout its public spaces.

Allure of the Seas
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
Capacity: 5,552 guests
Tonnage: 220,100
Year built: 2010
Date: April 2025

Marking the return of Royal Caribbean’s Amplified refit program, the Allure of the Seas is set to undergo a $100 million upgrade in April 2025.

During a drydock in Europe, the 2010-built ship will see the creation of new venues and features onboard, as well as the addition of new suites.

After the update, the Allure of the Seas will offer more than 35 ways to dine and drink, in addition to new bars, a new water park and upgraded pool decks.

Wind Spirit
Cruise Line: Windstar Cruises
Capacity: 148 guests
Tonnage: 5,703
Year built: 1988
Date: April 2025

The Wind Spirit is undergoing a major refurbishment in Europe in April 2025. As part of Windstar’s Setting Sails refit initiative, the ship is set to receive new public areas, updated spaces and more.

The project includes the refurbishment of the vessel’s reception area, retail space and a lounge adjacent to the Yacht Club Café.

Other spaces being refreshed include the World Spa, the Owner’s Suite and the pool deck, which will receive a new pool and whirlpool. The Wind Spirit is also getting a major tech upgrade, with the addition of new, larger flat-screen TVs to all staterooms and Starlink Wi-Fi.

Sea Cloud
Cruise Line: Sea Cloud Cruises
Capacity: 64 guests
Tonnage: 2,532
Year built: 1931
Date: October 2025

The Sea Cloud is set to undergo an extensive refurbishment following its 2025 summer season in the Mediterranean.

Further details of the project, which will be overseen by Sea Cloud Cruises Managing Director and Chief Technical Officer Adam Pazdzioch, are still to be announced.

According to Sea Cloud Cruises, the 93-year-old sailing ship will be prepared for continued service beyond its 100th birthday in addition to being upgraded,