The World Launches $30 Million Refit in Cádiz, Focusing on Luxury and Green Tech
The World’s $30 million refit in Cádiz highlights a push for contemporary luxury and technology, with new green features that reinforce the ship’s role in sustainable ocean travel.

The World, a renowned residential cruise ship under The World Residences at Sea, has arrived at the Navantia Shipyard in Cádiz, Spain, for an extensive $30 million refurbishment scheduled to last six weeks. This undertaking focuses on modernizing public areas, implementing new environmental and technical upgrades, and enhancing the ship’s luxury amenities while aligning with global decarbonization objectives.
Focus on Modernization and Public Spaces
A centerpiece of this refurbishment is the complete transformation of The World’s pool deck. Plans call for a larger bar, a refurbished galley and grill area, and the addition of a custom pizza oven and pantry. A watertight canopy, inspired by a boat’s sails, will provide daytime shade and serve as an elegant design feature in the evening, blending style and functionality in a key social hub of the ship.
Upgraded Spa and Recreational Facilities
The spa, spanning 7,000 square feet, will undergo a remodel that introduces new flooring, heated treatment rooms, and a cold plunge pool to complement the existing sauna and steam room. Salon areas will be modernized with features such as a new manicure station. In addition, the putting green will be refined to deliver a more realistic, land-based golfing experience, an amenity designed to meet residents’ expectations for leisure at sea.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Central to this revamp is a suite of energy-efficient initiatives. The ship will be fitted with a redesigned bulbous bow intended to reduce hull resistance by up to ten percent, part of a broader strategy to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. A new High Voltage Shore Connection system will enable The World to connect to shore power, allowing access to greener energy sources while docked. These measures reflect the vessel’s focus on decarbonization and compliance with international climate standards.
Commitment to High Maintenance Standards
Jessica Hoppe, President and CEO of The World, has underscored that this $30 million investment reaffirms residents’ commitment to preserving high-end comforts alongside robust ecological practices. A Statement of Extended Life was recently awarded to The World by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), emphasizing the ship’s meticulous standards of upkeep. The vessel engages in routine drydock maintenance every three years, ensuring it remains at the forefront of ship design, lifestyle trends, and safety benchmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the significance of The World’s $30 million refurbishment?
The project is designed to modernize major public areas such as the pool deck and spa and incorporate vital energy-saving measures, supporting both elevated luxury and sustainability goals.
How does this refurbishment address sustainability?
Included are a redesigned bulbous bow to reduce hull resistance, a High Voltage Shore Connection system for cleaner shore power usage, and other upgrades aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
How often does The World undergo refurbishment?
The ship is drydocked every three years for comprehensive upgrades to maintain high operational and safety standards, as well as to stay current with the latest amenities and design trends.
What are the main amenities being upgraded?
Enhancements feature a completely overhauled pool deck, an expanded spa with a cold plunge pool, updated salon areas, and a revamp of the putting green for a more authentic golfing experience.
Where is the refurbishment taking place?
All upgrades are being completed at the Navantia Shipyard in Cádiz, Spain, during a scheduled six-week drydock period.
With these improvements, The World aims to balance luxurious living with measurable environmental progress, preparing for continued service as a leading example of comfort, sustainability, and forward-thinking ship design.