AIDAbella Enters Marseille Shipyard for Major Refit

AIDAbella has arrived at the Chantier Naval de Marseille in France to begin its AIDA Evolution refurbishment program.

Built in 2008, the ship reached the French shipyard on January 21, 2026, after completing a repositioning voyage from the Canary Islands. The 68,500-ton vessel will remain in drydock for more than seven weeks while undergoing a wide-ranging series of upgrades and improvements.

The refit includes the introduction of new public spaces and venues, along with a complete refresh of all staterooms featuring updated designs and amenities. AIDA said the cabins will showcase more contemporary color palettes and be equipped with new features such as USB charging ports, upgraded lighting, and additional enhancements.

The project also adds new stern suites and expands the ship’s dining and bar offerings, including the introduction of the Yacht Club. This new nautical-themed restaurant will be paired with the Lanai Bar, an outdoor lounge space located at the ship’s stern. Additional venues being added include the French Kiss Bar & Bistro, East Fusion, and Tapas & Bar.

The 2,030-guest ship will also unveil an upgraded Theatrium, featuring advanced lighting and sound systems as well as expanded seating. For families, a new Fun Park with a climbing tower is being introduced, along with redesigned Kids Club facilities and a new Game Center.

Further upgrades will be carried out across the spa, the sky deck, crew areas, and the suite lounge.

Following the completion of the refurbishment, AIDAbella is scheduled to return to service on March 11, 2026, welcoming guests in Palma de Mallorca.

The ship will be the third to complete modernization under the AIDA Evolution initiative, following AIDAdiva and AIDAluna.

AIDA also plans to extend similar refit projects to four additional Sphinx-class ships, with AIDAsol, AIDAstella, AIDAblu, and AIDAmar all set to be upgraded by 2028.