AIDA Evolution: Hyperion Class Receives €200 Million Upgrade

AIDAperla
Today, AIDA Cruises officially expanded its "AIDA Evolution" fleet modernization program to the Hyperion class. For approximately 200 million euros, AIDAperla (spring 2027) and AIDAprima (spring 2028) will undergo comprehensive modernization at the Chantier Naval de Marseille. The fact that ships are receiving such a massive refit—costing 100 million euros per ship—after just about ten years is a clear signal of the rapid changes in the cruise industry and the cruise line's ambition to stay at the cutting edge of technology and design.

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On board, cruisers can look forward to many innovations in the dining and entertainment sectors. Digital smartphone photography is rendering classic photo galleries obsolete, which is why the new "Art Bar" is moving into this space. In addition, the culinary offerings will be expanded with "East Fusion", featuring Korean BBQ and hotpot, as well as the Latin American "Chilli Out Bar". A smart architectural tweak: the popular "Spray Bar" at the bow will finally get its own dedicated entrance via the "D6" nightclub, putting an end to the evening through-traffic in the exclusive "Nightfly" club.

The leisure facilities are also undergoing significant changes. The high-maintenance ropes course in the "Four Elements", which required intensive staffing, is making way for the new "Fun Park Air"—a huge net structure for climbing and relaxing that requires no harnesses and eliminates long waiting times. Families will also benefit from a new outdoor area for the Kids Club, a mini play corner in the Beach Club, and a new mini-golf course on Deck 16. During the day, the "D6" nightclub will also be cleverly repurposed into a "Teens Lounge".

Alongside new cabins and suite upgrades, sustainability is a major focus of the refit. The underwater hull of both ships will receive a biocide-free silicone coating, massively reducing hydrodynamic drag and, consequently, fuel consumption. Embracing the circular economy, old carpets will be recycled as underlays, and thousands of well-preserved pieces of furniture will be donated to social projects like "Der Hafen hilft! e.V.". With these updates, AIDA is making the Hyperion class fit for the next decade and preparing for fleet expansion in the 2030s.