5 Cruise Ship Drydocks and Upgrades Coming This February

5 Cruise Ships Getting Major Makeovers in February 2026

This February, several notable cruise ships are scheduled for drydock, marking a vital period for routine maintenance and significant upgrades. As the cruise industry continues to rebound from recent challenges, these drydock projects are crucial for enhancing passenger experiences and ensuring safety on the high seas. Here’s an overview of the ships undergoing transformations this month, highlighting the importance of these maintenance efforts in the cruise sector.

Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas: A Routine Tune-Up

Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas is currently docked at the Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, where it is undergoing essential technical work. This vessel, which accommodates 2,142 guests and has a gross tonnage of 90,000, has been a staple in the cruise line's fleet since its launch in 2001.

The maintenance period for the Radiance of the Seas started on January 20 and will conclude on February 14, 2026. Notably, it will welcome back guests just in time for Valentine's Day, showcasing Royal Caribbean's commitment to keeping its fleet in top condition while providing memorable experiences for passengers.

AIDAbella: Major Upgrades in France

AIDA Cruises is pulling out all the stops for the AIDAbella, which is currently at the Chantier Naval de Marseille in France. This impressive ship, which was built in 2008, can accommodate up to 5,224 guests and weighs 182,700 tons, making it one of the larger vessels undergoing refurbishment this month.

The AIDAbella is set for a comprehensive seven-week transformation as part of the AIDA Evolution modernization program. The upgrades began on January 21 and will be completed by March 11, 2026. Enhancements include:

  • Revamped guest rooms and public spaces
  • New dining options to elevate culinary experiences
  • Family-friendly entertainment features

This significant overhaul reflects AIDA's effort to cater to evolving passenger preferences and enhance onboard experiences.

MSC Poesia: Preparing for an Alaskan Adventure

The MSC Poesia is currently undergoing a major facelift at the Palumbo Shipyard in Malta, with renovations aimed at preparing the ship for MSC Cruises' inaugural Alaska program. The refurbishment period runs from February 13 to April 6, 2026, and aims to elevate the ship’s offerings for its passengers.

This Musica-class ship, capable of carrying 2,550 guests, will see upgrades including:

  • New dining venues to diversify culinary experiences
  • A fresh sports bar for leisure and entertainment
  • Updated wellness areas promoting relaxation and rejuvenation
  • The introduction of the Yacht Club, MSC’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept

These enhancements are part of MSC's broader strategy to expand its presence in the Alaskan cruise market, a venture expected to attract a new demographic of adventure-seeking travelers.

Carnival Encounter: First Maintenance Period Under Carnival Cruise Line

The Carnival Encounter is heading to a Singapore shipyard for its first maintenance period under the Carnival Cruise Line flag. Having joined the fleet in early 2025, this 2,974-passenger vessel, built in 2002 and weighing 110,000 tons, is scheduled for drydock from February 16 to March 5, 2026.

While Carnival has not released specific details about the upgrades, this maintenance period will include essential technical work and class inspections to ensure the ship is ready for upcoming voyages. Regular upkeep is crucial for maintaining the highest safety standards and operational efficiency in the cruise industry.

Star Navigator: Ready for Taiwan Season

The Star Navigator is currently undergoing routine maintenance at Yiu Lian Dockyards in Shekou, China. Originally launched as the SuperStar Virgo in 1999, this StarDream Cruises vessel accommodates 1,804 guests and weighs 76,800 tons.

The drydock period, running from February 2 to February 17, 2026, is essential for preparing the ship for its homeporting season in Taiwan, which begins shortly after the maintenance concludes. Such preparations are integral as cruise lines aim to meet the growing demand in Asia-Pacific markets, particularly in Taiwan.

The Importance of Drydocks in the Cruise Industry

Drydock periods are critical for cruise lines to maintain their vessels, ensuring safety, functionality, and passenger satisfaction. These maintenance windows allow for:

  • Regular inspections and repairs to meet safety regulations
  • Upgrades to enhance onboard experiences and amenities
  • Implementation of new technologies that improve operational efficiency
  • Environmental upgrades to adhere to sustainability standards

As the cruise industry navigates its recovery post-pandemic, these drydock upgrades are not just about maintaining the ships; they also reflect cruise lines' commitment to providing superior experiences and prioritizing passenger safety and comfort.

Conclusion

February 2026 marks an exciting time for several cruise ships undergoing significant makeovers and routine maintenance. From Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas to AIDA's AIDAbella, each ship's upgrades are tailored to enhance the overall guest experience and ensure compliance with safety regulations. As the cruise industry continues to evolve, these drydock projects play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cruising, offering travelers enhanced experiences on the open seas.

--- **Source Attribution:** This article is based on information from [Cruise Maven](https://cruisemaven.com/5-cruise-ship-drydocks-and-upgrades-coming-this-february/). We appreciate their original reporting and encourage readers to visit their site for more cruise industry coverage. *Port Side Left aggregates and enhances cruise industry news from multiple sources to provide comprehensive coverage for cruise enthusiasts.*