Refits, newbuilds and sustainability drive for cruise interiors

A major enhancement project is that of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore. Following the refurbishment of sister ship Norwegian Joy earlier this year, the 3,958-passenger vessel will enter a two-week drydock in mid-November.

In addition to redesigned suites in The Haven by Norwegian – the line’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept – and 24 new balcony cabins, the updates will include expanding two dining venues and an all-new adult-only outdoor lounge area.

Interestingly, guest feedback was a driving force for shaping the enhancements. Our feature shows the role that this played in the refit.

Moving on to newbuilds, the delivery of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma highlights the evolution of hotel and yacht design within cruise ships. As the company’s vice president, newbuilds, Tobias King says, “The most innovative aspects lie in how we can create an environment of ultra luxury within the framework of ship design. Together with our partners, we have successfully been able to implement design and service solutions from luxury hotels and smaller private yachts into our product.”

And finally, the development of ever-greater sustainable features within the interiors is highlighted by a solar-powered ferry – the first mass-transport marine vessel to use natural fibre composites for interior parts in place of standard materials such as glass and plastic.