AIDA Cruises has successfully completed the inaugural phase of its Evolution program with the extensive modernization of AIDAdiva. The vessel underwent a comprehensive seven-week dry dock at the Chantier Naval Shipyard in Marseille (France) from February 3 to March 21, 2025. This overhaul encompassed approximately 300 major projects, involving thousands of shipyard workers, specialists from over 170 different fit-out companies, and the ship's crew.
Significant enhancements were made to all guest cabins, including new canopies, carpets, curtains, and updated color schemes in bright, modern tones. Balcony cabins received new chairs and sofas, and select cabins were reconfigured to accommodate up to four guests, catering to families. At the stern, six new spacious family-friendly suites with private sun decks were constructed, featuring separate living and sleeping areas with double beds and additional sleeping arrangements in the living room. Some suites now offer occupancy for up to five guests plus a baby cot. Suite guests also have access to exclusive retreats—the Sky Deck and the Rossini Lounge.
Public areas on decks 9, 10, and 11 underwent extensive redesigns. New dining venues were introduced, including French Kiss (restaurant and bar), East Fusion (Asian cuisine), the Tapas Bar (Spanish snacks) and the Yachtclub Restaurant (serving maritime delicacies).
Additional bars such as the Panorama Bar, Ice Bar, Tokyo Bar, and Lanai Bar were also added.
The Theatrium received updated seating with backrests around the stage (on deck 9), a refreshed color scheme, state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and stage control technology.
The wellness complex was completely renovated to align with the organic spa concept, introducing two additional wellness suites equipped with private whirlpool tubs, saunas, and waterbeds. The hair spa received a new design and now includes a nail spa.
On deck 14, a new fun park was created, featuring a 7.5-meter-high climbing tower, a slide, and interactive caves. The Kids Club was also redesigned to enhance the experience for younger guests.
Technical and sustainability upgrades were implemented, including the repurposing of over 45,700 m2 of carpeting and the installation of recyclable carpeting in guest and crew areas.
A new reverse osmosis system was added to optimize freshwater production from seawater, and an innovative Solid Waste Processor was installed to reduce waste volume by up to 95%.
The underwater hull was treated with approximately 17,500 liters of biocide-free paint to reduce frictional resistance, and energy-efficient LED lighting systems were installed to further decrease energy consumption.
The IT infrastructure was overhauled, involving the installation of 50 km of new cables and the replacement of 22 tons of electronics.
Additionally, 6.5 km of wooden handrails were renewed, large areas of glass and window panes were replaced, and about 8,500 liters of paint were applied to refresh the vessel's appearance.
AIDAdiva celebrated her return to service with a special premiere cruise from March 23 to 30, 2025, featuring an exclusive concert by guest artist Clueso. Subsequent voyages included itineraries from Rome/Civitavecchia along the Italian coast and Malta, with destinations such as Valletta, Syracuse or Catania, Palermo, Naples, and Olbia. The vessel then proceeded to its summer cruising area, offering voyages from Warnemünde to destinations in the Baltic Sea and Norway.
In the fall, AIDAdiva embarked on her first world cruise from November 10, 2025, to March 23, 2026. This 133-day journey departed from Hamburg, covering 5 continents and 27 countries. For the first time on an AIDA World Cruise, both the east and west coasts of the USA and Japan were included in the itinerary, with New Year's Eve celebrated in Hawaii.