AIDA Drydock Initiative Promises Exceptional Returns

The AIDA Evolution drydock program is expected to deliver exceptional returns, according to Carnival Corporation’s president and CEO, Josh Weinstein.

During the company’s second quarter Earnings Call, Weinstein emphasized that the fleet enhancement initiative is a strategic and worthwhile investment. “AIDA is one of our highest returning brands, and we’ve praised them for a long time. This program will significantly enhance their existing fleet,” he stated.

Carnival Corporation’s CFO, David Bernstein, highlighted that the AIDA Evolution program will also influence the company’s expenses and drydock days in 2025. “These ships will enter drydock, leading to an increase in drydock days in 2025 compared to 2024, which will also impact costs,” he elaborated.

Weinstein pointed out that decisions affecting company costs, such as the AIDA Evolution program, are made with potential returns and a long-term perspective in mind. “We are looking far into the future as our brands strive to optimize their booking curves,” he said, referencing advertising investments.

“The key is what we are spending on, its effectiveness, and whether it will generate substantial incremental revenue for the specific marketing initiative.”

Announced as the largest fleet modernization effort ever undertaken by the German brand, the AIDA Evolution program will involve refurbishing three ships between 2025 and 2026.

AIDA Cruises stated that in the first phase of the program, the AIDAdiva, AIDAbella, and AIDAluna will undergo six-week drydocks. The ships will receive updated interiors, new technical equipment, refurbished staterooms, and additional suites.

The company also announced that the 2,030-guest ships will feature new culinary options, family areas, and more.

Currently, the oldest ships in the AIDA Cruises fleet, the AIDAdiva, AIDAbella, and AIDAluna were built between 2007 and 2009.