We visited the Navantia shipyard in Cádiz, where a multi-million euro refurbishment is underway on Allure of the Seas . Built in 2010, this 18-deck vessel boasts an imposing presence, but its interior transforms into a vast work zone when you step inside and find it stripped down for a complete interior renovation.
As we are guided by those in charge of the works through the corridors and different spaces inside the ship and see the different jobs they are doing, we walk among containers, materials and workers in almost all its areas, who are working flat out to meet deadlines so that the entire remodeling, estimated at more than 100 million dollars, is completed on the scheduled date.
This isn't the first time Navantia has undertaken a project of this scale, nor is it the first time it has worked for Royal Caribbean International, having carried out similar work on the Oasis of the Seas five years ago. However, it does solidify the Cádiz shipyard's position in cruise ship refurbishments and represents a significant milestone for the Spanish shipbuilding industry, while also generating a considerable economic impact in the region.
The work being carried out at Navantia includes the refurbishment and expansion of forward cabins, the extension of decks, the construction of new swimming pools and jacuzzis, new suites and bars, and the addition of more than 100 new cabins, among other improvements. This refurbishment begins a year before the arrival of the second Oasis-class ship at the shipyard, with planning, design, and engineering work, as well as numerous meetings with various suppliers and materials coming from around the world. A large team from the shipping company coordinates the entire process in conjunction with the shipyard.
The ship entered dry dock four at the Navantia Cádiz shipyard on February 24th to undergo 14,000 works, with more than 3,000 workers from 81 different nationalities participating in a race against time to ensure the vessel begins its inaugural season completely renovated on April 7th. After 10 weeks at Navantia, it will sail to Barcelona to begin its Mediterranean service, initially offering a four-night cruise starting and ending in Barcelona with stops in Palma and Marseille; followed by a five-night cruise from Barcelona to Provence (Marseille) and Palma de Mallorca, returning to Barcelona. Then, until October 2025, it will offer seven-night Western Mediterranean vacations departing from Barcelona, visiting destinations such as Provence (Marseille) in France, Florence/Pisa (La Spezia), Naples/Capri and Rome in Italy, and Palma de Mallorca.
Once its season in the Mediterranean is over, the Allure of the Seas will move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2025, to offer Caribbean itineraries
Following its expansion and renovation, guests will be able to enjoy new facilities such as the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story-high dry slide for adrenaline lovers; or The Perfect Storm, a duo of three-deck-high water slides; a Laser Tag where laser gun battles will be held in a glow-in-the-dark setting; or an Escape Room where, for 60 minutes, guests will have to discover hidden clues and solve riddles or decipher codes to free themselves.
Other additions will be the two new Ultimate Panoramic Suites, with 200-degree sea views located above the bridge and accommodating up to four passengers, offering a luxurious suite with a large dressing room, a renovated bathroom and a dining area.
Another area being renovated is the pool deck, which will now offer a resort style after its expansion and the addition of new jacuzzis, as well as spaces specially designed for children and teenagers, such as Splashaway Bay, the interactive water park for the little ones.
Successful and established concepts will also be incorporated into the fleet, such as the Mexican taqueria El Loco Fresh or the Southern American cuisine restaurant Mason Jar, as well as the tropical bars Pesky Parrot, which offers a taste of the Caribbean with fruit-based drinks accompanied by rum, tequila or gin, and Lime & Coconut.
Nightlife has its own dedicated space. Under the Royal Promenade, you'll find the Casino Royale, the impressive Studio B ice rink with nightly shows, a comedy club, and of course, the main theater, which occupies several decks at the bow. The theater will offer shows brought directly from Broadway, as well as original productions that will amaze guests with performers flying above the audience, or drones.
The Allure of the Seas has been designed to provide an unforgettable experience of entertainment and comfort to passengers of all ages across its seven neighborhoods. Onboard, guests can enjoy a diverse culinary offering with more than 35 dining and beverage options, as well as five pools and 16 whirlpools, perfect for relaxation and fun. For adrenaline junkies, there are FlowRider surf simulators, a zip line, rock climbing walls, and an ice-skating rink; and activities for the whole family such as mini-golf, shows at the AquaTheater, and West End-inspired productions.
As for wellness, the Vitality Spa, gym and running track will be designed for the relaxation and physical activity of passengers and at night, the fun will continue in a wide variety of bars and nightclubs, such as Casino Royale, Boleros, Blaze and Dazzles, where you can enjoy live music, cocktails served by a robot bartender, DJs, karaoke and Latin rhythms, among many other experiences that will make the vacation unforgettable.
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