AIDA Cruises Unveils Matti: The New Brand Ambassador for the Fleet

Matti isn't just your average mascot. According to his backstory, the little lemur with large, curious eyes hopped aboard an AIDA ship on a distant island and has been traveling the world with the crew and guests ever since. He loves adventures, enjoys counting stars on the sun deck at night, and has a particular fondness for banana ice cream with caramel sauce at the onboard ice cream bar.

Strategically, AIDA is leveraging the "baby schema" to create immediate emotional appeal. Matti is approachable, playful, and appeals to all age groups – from Gen Z to seasoned cruisers. While the well-known "Clubbies" (Alwine, Itzi, Dodo, and Achwasachwas) remain part of the kids' program, Matti serves as a universal ambassador for the entire brand.

Matti’s introduction coincides with major fleet milestones. AIDAluna has just returned from a seven-week dry dock period, boasting refurbished hotel areas and enhanced sustainability features. Starting in January 2026, AIDAbella will be the next vessel to undergo extensive modernization. Matti acts as a bridge, translating technical advancements – such as shoreside power and advanced recycling – into the language of vacation joy.

For those looking to explore the world with Matti, the options are vast. Routes for Summer 2026 in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Baltic Sea are now open for booking. Special highlights include the return to the USA with AIDAdiva for the Indian Summer and the epic 2027 World Cruise, which spans 144 days and visits 27 countries.

A quick tip: The "Maki Challenge" kicks off on January 15, 2026. Fans can participate in this weekly competition to win AIDA vouchers worth €1,500 and special "explorer packages." It’s definitely worth keeping a sharp eye on port and starboard!