November 3, 2026. As the AIDA Evolution program for AIDA Cruises enters its second phase, MAKINEN has begun refurbishment works onboard AIDAmar in Marseille. AIDAmar is the first of four vessels in this phase, with AIDAblu, AIDAsol, and AIDAstella scheduled for refurbishment in 2027–2028.
The first phase concluded with the refurbishment of AIDAbella in spring 2026, following AIDAdiva and AIDAluna in 2025. MAKINEN carried out the works onboard AIDAbella during the vessel’s drydock at Chantier Naval de Marseille in January–March 2026.
The MAKINEN scope covered the refurbishment of over 1,000 passenger cabins and 18 suites, the conversion of 12 cabins into six new family suites, and works in the Pier 3 bar area. In addition, selected works were carried out in passenger corridors.
In passenger cabins, the refurbishment included upgrades to furniture, lighting and electrical elements, illuminated mirrors, wall features, curtains, and other maintenance works, particularly in wet units.
In suites, the scope included new furniture, ceilings, layout modifications with new wall linings, wallcoverings, carpet, drapery, lighting, and other interior details. The converted family suites also received new wet units with jacuzzis.
Pier 3 was one of the project’s major scope areas. The existing bar area was demolished down to steel and rebuilt into 12 new crew cabins and a completely new space, including a crew corridor and lobby area. The works also included flooring and artwork installation in the outside passenger area.
The same MAKINEN core team specifically appointed for the AIDA modernization program worked across all three vessels during the first phase and will continue into the second phase. With each project, the team has been able to improve planning, logistics, coordination, and working methods.
The modernized interiors have also received industry recognition. AIDAdiva’s Premium Suite with Private Sundeck, outfitted by MAKINEN, won the Best Cabin category at the
2025 Cruise Ship Interiors Awards.
“Multi-ship refurbishment programs are very much at the core of MAKINEN’s expertise, so the EVO I projects have naturally been an important part of our recent work,” says Mikko Makinen, CEO of MAKINEN.
“The partnership with AIDA Cruises has been professional, transparent, and above all enjoyable. In refurbishment programs like these, the customer benefits from continuity, cost-efficiency, and consistency when the same experienced teams work from one vessel to the next,” Makinen says. “We value the long-term cooperation with AIDA Cruises and look forward to the next phase of the program.”
More information: Mikko Makinen (mikko.makinen@ismakinen.com)
Photo and video: AIDAbella refurbishment, completed in spring 2026 as part of the first phase of AIDA Evolution. Marine Interior Images, Alexander Rudolph.
