AIDA Cruises launches largest fleet modernization in 2025: Sphinx class to be renewed

Bild von Dieter Ludwig Scharnagl auf Pixabay
AIDA Cruises launches largest fleet modernization program from 2025
In spring 2025, AIDA Cruises will begin the most extensive modernization project in the company's history. As part of the so-called “AIDA Evolution”, a total of seven Sphinx-class ships will be extensively renovated and brought up to date. The AIDAdiva, which entered service in 2007, will be the first ship to undergo fundamental renovations during a seven-week stay at the shipyard.

Among other things, an expansion of the gastronomic offer, new bars and extended services are planned. The guest cabins will also be redesigned and more family-friendly areas will be created to increase comfort and relaxation on board. These include exclusive areas for suite guests and new activities specifically for children and families. The monthly video series “Super becomes Mega” from AIDA Cruises will provide further insights into the planned innovations.

New restaurants and bistros on AIDAdiva

One highlight of the modernization is the expansion of the culinary variety. A “gourmet mile” is being created on deck 11, where the French “French Kiss” restaurant and an Asian restaurant will open. Three new bistros will also be added to the offering. Guests can look forward to Spanish tapas in the Theatrium on deck 9, the “French Kiss Bar & Bistro” on deck 10 and an ice cream bar on deck 11.

The popular “Yacht Club” buffet restaurant will also be part of the renovations and will expand the choice of dining options. Classic restaurants such as the “Markt Restaurant” and the two chargeable gourmet restaurants “Rossini” and “Buffalo Steakhaus” will also be retained, but will also be given a visual makeover.

The “Rossini Restaurant” on deck 11 will in future serve as an exclusive lounge for suite guests during the day. The entrance area will be equipped with comfortable seating and a small buffet to offer guests even greater comfort.

Comprehensive redesign of the bars and lounges

The bar concept on the AIDAdiva is also being revised. Guests can look forward to exclusive “signature drinks” in the panorama lounge on deck 10 and the Tokyo Bar. A new “Lanai Bar” at the stern of deck 10 will offer additional outdoor seating with a great view and a relaxed atmosphere.

The Theatrium with its surrounding bars will have a new, inviting design and provide an improved feel-good atmosphere. It is believed that the popular “Café Mare” at the Theatrium on deck 10 will also be given a makeover. According to current information, the star-shaped “AIDA Bar” will also remain on deck 10, but the transition to it will be redesigned.

Another new area will be the “Ocean Club” on deck 12, which will be used as a retreat for teenagers during the day and as a DJ club in the evening.

Cabin modernization and new exclusive suites

The cabins on the AIDAdiva and its sister ships will be redesigned as part of the AIDA Evolution. The fresh colors and the distinctive AIDA design will be retained, but will be given a more modern touch.

In addition, six new suites will be created on decks 6, 7 and 8, offering space for up to four people and comprising separate living and sleeping areas, two bathrooms and spacious balconies. The new suites will replace twelve balcony cabins at the stern. In addition, an exclusive suite lounge will be set up for suite guests, which is located in the Rossini Restaurant and serves as a retreat during the day.

Family-friendly areas and activities

While many details about the new family offerings are not yet known, it is believed that the AIDAdiva will also be modernized in this area. There is currently a Kids Club on deck 5 with play areas and a small pool, as well as the “Teens Club Hype” on deck 12. The outdoor sports deck on deck 14 is also very popular with younger guests. Further information on the new activities for children and families is expected to be announced at a later date.

AIDA Evolution schedule

The major modernization programme will start with the AIDAdiva, which will be thoroughly renovated at the shipyard in Marseille from February to March 2025. The first guests will be able to experience the new features from March 23, 2025. Further shipyard visits are planned for the sister ships AIDAluna and AIDAbella in fall 2025 and spring 2026.

Planned shipyard visits for the AIDA ships:

AIDAdiva: February 3 to March 22, 2025
AIDAluna: October 22 to December 10, 2025
AIDAbella: January 21 to March 11, 2026

This extensive modernization marks an important milestone for AIDA Cruises and promises guests an even more intense and comfortable cruise experience on the modernized Sphinx-class ships.