Wow features and revitalisation ramp-up

Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest ship, Norwegian Aqua, certainly heralds in the theme of wow features – the Aqua Slidecoaster is the first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea, described as a world first.

And over at Marella Cruises, its refit of Marella Discovery 2 includes the line’s first-ever life-sized interactive Play Wall. Developed by Neo Experiences, innovators in interactive and immersive gaming, the line says the cutting-edge complimentary activity aboard the 69,472-gt vessel transforms gaming into a next-level experience.

Senior product development manager at Marella Cruises, Luke Murphy tells Passenger Ship Interior and Refurbishment Review, “We have observed a growing demand for competitive socialising and immersive experiences… The Play Wall features 28 different games and experiences designed to appeal to a broad audience.”

Speaking of refits, there has been a growing trend of large interior revitalisations within the cruise ship sector. For example, Cunard has drawn on the design of its newest ship, Queen Anne, launched last year, as part of the inspiration for the revitalised Queen Elizabeth. The 90,400-gt vessel, which launched in 2010, underwent a three-week makeover at Seatrium’s Admiralty Yard in Singapore.

Elsewhere, Avalon Artistry II is the latest vessel of the Avalon Waterways’ trademark suite ships to undergo a bow-to-stern refurbishment. Each of the line’s European ships – with the exception of the newest vessels Avalon Alegria, Avalon View and Avalon Envision which have been constructed in the enhanced style – is undergoing a phased bow-to-stern refurbishment.

Add to that many other refits, including Windstar Cruises’ Wind Surf’s transformation of its common spaces and suites, and there really is a trend to make older ships as good as new.