The World to Undergo Major Refit During Six-Week Drydock

The company announced in a press release that the World Residences at Sea is set to undergo a major upgrade.

The refurbishment will take place during a six-week drydock at the Navantia Shipyard in Cadiz, Spain.

According to the ship’s operator, the project aims to bring an array of transformative enhancements to the vessel, including environmental, technical and hotel upgrades.

“This extraordinary 40-day, $30+ million outlay in the ship demonstrates residents’ commitment to keeping The World at the forefront of luxury living and represents the next chapter in that journey,” said Jessica Hoppe, president and CEO of The World.

The ship was also recently awarded a “Statement of Extended Life” from Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

“Our resident owners continue to invest in the ship, ensuring that it not only evolves with their needs but also stays ahead of global innovations. Our recent Statement of Extended Life from DNV is a testament to the exceedingly high standards that we set, how hard our deck and engine teams work to meet those standards, and the support that we receive from the resident community,” she added.

As part of its regular schedule, The World is said to enter a planned drydock every three years to conduct routine technology and maintenance upgrades, as well as updates to public spaces based on current design and lifestyle trends.

The DNV statement is a result of the company’s commitment to maintenance.

After the completion of a comprehensive study and extensive evaluation, DNV recognized its commitment to maximizing the sustainable lifespan of the vessel.

“Most notably, The World’s physical condition is that of a ship that is just 5.6 years old, far younger than her chronological age—providing confidence in her long-term quality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility,” the company stated.

The 2025 drydock will focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that the World continues to meet and exceed global climate targets.

Among the updates is the installation of shore power, also known as cold ironing, a High Voltage Shore Connection (HVSC) system.

The ship’s bulbous bow will be replaced as part of a decarbonization project.

Originally optimized for a speed of 19 knots, the new design will reduce hull resistance by up to 10 percent and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions.

The World will also debut a reimagined pool deck, a refreshed spa and more.

Record Day: 10 Cruise Ships in Miami

According to a press release, PortMiami welcomed a record-breaking 10 cruise ships on Feb. 8.

They were the Carnival Magic, Carnival Sunrise, Zaandam, MSC Seascape, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Gem, Sirena, Icon of the Seas, Independence of the Seas and the Scarlet Lady.

Close to 68,000 passengers were expected during the day, the port said.

“It is no surprise PortMiami and the cruise industry continue to break records,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “PortMiami is the departure choice for all major cruise lines. As a destination, Miami-Dade is undoubtedly the centre of world cruise tourism with incredible weather, culture and unlimited options for exciting experiences.”

The 2025 season is filled with new cruise ships. Among the lineup of ships are Cunard Queen Anne (January 2025), MSC Cruises MSC World America (April 2025), Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Aqua (April 2025), Royal Caribbean International Wonder of the Seas (August 2025), Cunard Queen Elizabeth (October 2025), Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady (October 2025), and Oceania Cruises Allura (November 2025).

Disney Cruise Line: Two Ships in Alaska for 2026

Disney Cruise Line unveiled summer 2026, exploring Alaska, Europe, The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will sail seven-night voyages to Alaska from Vancouver, visiting ports like Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, along with Dawes Glacier. The Disney Magic will also make stops at Icy Strait Point. It will mark the first time two Disney ships have been deployed to Alaska.

The Disney Dream will debut in Cagliari, Italy, marking the first time Disney Cruise Line visits this destination. The ship will then travel to various European ports across Italy, Greece, Croatia and Malta, among others. It will start the summer with a transatlantic crossing from Ft. Lauderdale to Barcelona and then offer seven- to twelve-night Mediterranean cruises. The Disney Dream will also sail from Southampton, UK, to Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords.

The Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida to The Bahamas and the Caribbean, including stops at Disney’s private retreats, Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay. The Disney Treasure will offer seven-night Caribbean cruises with stops at destinations such as Tortola, Falmouth and Cozumel.

The Disney Destiny, launching in November 2025, will depart from Fort Lauderdale on four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and the Western Caribbean, including stops at Disney’s private islands.

Finally, the Disney Adventure will launch in December 2025, offering three- and four-night itineraries from Singapore starting in April 2026. Guests will experience Marvel-themed attractions, exclusive entertainment and a variety of dining options.