Top Cruise Ships Undergoing Major Refurbishments in 2024 and 2025: What’s Changing on Norwegian Encore, Scarlet Lady, AIDAdiva, and Allure of the Seas

Written By: Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar is a Senior Journalist at Travel and Tour World with more than 10 years of experience in travel and tourism journalism. A post-graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, he combines strong research, industry knowledge and storytelling expertise to produce engaging, insightful and impactful travel news and fascinating feature stories.

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October 15, 2024 12:10 PM

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As the cruise industry continues to grow and evolve, major cruise lines are investing in ship refurbishments to enhance the onboard experience for travelers. From new dining options to expanded suites and redesigned public spaces, these upgrades are designed to offer more comfort, excitement, and variety for guests. In 2024 and 2025, several cruise ships will be heading to drydock for extensive makeovers. Let’s take a closer look at four of the most anticipated refurbishments coming soon to Norwegian Encore, Scarlet Lady, AIDAdiva, and Allure of the Seas.

Norwegian Encore

• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Capacity: 4,200 guests
• Tonnage: 164,600
• Year Built: 2019
• Refurbishment Date: November 2024

The Norwegian Encore is set to undergo a significant refurbishment later this year, as part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to continually enhancing the guest experience. This refurbishment will focus on adding new features and expanding popular areas to provide more elevated and diverse options for passengers.

Key Upgrades:

• Spice H2O Sun Deck: One of the most exciting changes is the transformation of the Encore’s laser tag area into Spice H2O, a complimentary, adults-only sun deck. This new outdoor space will offer relaxation and ocean views for those looking for a serene escape on board.
• Expanded Dining Venues: Norwegian Encore’s popular dining options are also getting an upgrade, with both Cagney’s Steakhouse and the Teppanyaki restaurant expanding to accommodate more guests.
• New Balcony Rooms: The ship will see the addition of 24 new balcony rooms, created by repurposing part of the Observation Lounge.
• Haven Area Enhancements: The ship’s exclusive Haven suites will be redesigned for a more luxurious feel, and a new restaurant, Palomar, will be introduced, offering fresh seafood and a sophisticated dining experience.

Scarlet Lady

• Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages
• Capacity: 2,770 guests
• Tonnage: 110,000
• Year Built: 2020
• Refurbishment Date: November 2024

Virgin Voyages’ first ship, the Scarlet Lady, will enter drydock in November 2024 for a series of cosmetic and functional upgrades. The relatively new ship, which made its debut in 2020, is already known for its bold and innovative approach to cruising, but Virgin Voyages is committed to keeping the experience fresh and exciting.

Key Upgrades:

• New Suites: Virgin Voyages is converting several cabins on Deck 11 into 24 new “Seriously Suites,” which are among the most popular suite categories on board.
• Expanded Casino: The ship’s casino will also be expanded and redesigned to accommodate more guests, including the creation of a larger non-smoking area.
• New Dining and Entertainment: Virgin Voyages is promising new dining options and entertainment experiences to further enhance the ship’s appeal. Though details are still under wraps, guests can expect the brand’s signature flair and creativity.
• New Mermaid Bow Art: Keeping with tradition, Scarlet Lady will debut a new mermaid on her bow, adding a fresh artistic element to the ship’s exterior.

AIDAdiva

• Cruise Line: AIDA Cruises
• Capacity: 2,030 guests
• Tonnage: 68,500
• Year Built: 2007
• Refurbishment Date: February 2025

The AIDAdiva will be the first ship in AIDA Cruises’ fleet to undergo a major overhaul as part of the company’s Evolution Refurbishment Program. Scheduled for a seven-week drydock starting in February 2025, the ship will emerge with refreshed interiors and a range of new features aimed at enhancing the onboard experience for families and leisure travelers.

Key Upgrades:

• Stateroom Upgrades: Every stateroom on the AIDAdiva will be updated with a new, modern look, offering greater comfort and style for guests.
• Increased Suite Capacity: The ship will see an increase in the number of suites, providing more luxurious options for passengers.
• New Restaurants and Bars: AIDAdiva will introduce several new dining venues and signature bars, giving guests more options to enjoy diverse culinary experiences.
• Redesigned Theatrium: The ship’s Theatrium, a combination atrium and theater, will undergo a complete redesign, enhancing its role as the central entertainment hub of the ship.
• Family-Friendly Features: AIDAdiva will also debut new activity areas designed for families with children, making it a more attractive option for multi-generational vacations.

Allure of the Seas

• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
• Capacity: 5,552 guests
• Tonnage: 220,100
• Year Built: 2010
• Refurbishment Date: April 2025

The Allure of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, is set for a massive $100 million upgrade in April 2025. As part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified program, the ship will undergo extensive enhancements, with new dining options, expanded entertainment, and upgraded amenities.

Key Upgrades:

• 35+ Dining Venues: Following the refurbishment, Allure of the Seas will offer more than 35 dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, ensuring that there is something for every palate.
• New Water Park and Pool Decks: The ship’s pool decks will be redesigned, featuring upgraded lounges and pools, as well as a new water park that will appeal to families and thrill-seekers.
• New Bars and Nightlife: Guests can look forward to new bars and nightlife options, expanding the ship’s entertainment offerings.
• Suite Additions: Royal Caribbean will also add new luxury suites to the ship, providing guests with more premium accommodation choices.

These major cruise ship refurbishments showcase the ongoing evolution of the cruise industry. Whether it’s Norwegian Encore’s expanded dining options, Scarlet Lady’s innovative suites, AIDAdiva’s family-friendly enhancements, or Allure of the Seas’ extensive entertainment upgrades, these ships are set to offer exciting new experiences for guests in 2024 and 2025. As the cruise industry continues to recover and grow, these updates reflect the commitment of cruise lines to delivering top-tier service, comfort, and entertainment for travelers worldwide.