Bolidt at full scale as new cruise season approaches

Bolidt News

Extensive refits and newbuild projects reinforce position in the global cruise industry.

As the new cruise season approaches, Bolidt is delivering a wide range of large-scale projects for leading cruise operators worldwide. From extensive refits to innovative newbuild vessels, demand for integrated decking and flooring solutions continues to grow.

For major operators such as MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean and AIDA Cruises, Bolidt is currently executing projects that rank among the largest in the company’s history. This further underlines its role as a trusted partner within the international cruise industry.

Large-scale refit programmes for MSC Cruises

Within MSC Cruises’ refurbishment programme, the focus lies on creating exclusive, high-end spaces across existing vessels. Bolidt recently completed extensive works aboard MSC Magnifica and will continue with MSC Poesia and later MSC Musica. The scope includes the creation of new VIP environments within the MSC Yacht Club, the application of prefabricated elements and the replacement of traditional teak with durable alternatives such as Bolideck^® Future Teak in pool and Jacuzzi areas. Underscoring its long-standing partnership with MSC Cruises, the company has also secured contracts for newbuild projects for the line’s World Class ships, including MSC World Asia, ahead of her scheduled delivery in 2026. The company is also contributing to the luxury fleet of Explora Journeys, with EXPLORA III set to enter service this summer.

AIDA Evolution: modernisation at scale

For AIDA Cruises, Bolidt plays a key role in the large-scale ‘AIDA Evolution’ modernisation programme. Since 2025, multiple vessels have been upgraded, including AIDAdiva, AIDAluna and most recently AIDAbella.

On AIDAbella, Bolidt refitted the pool deck, integrating prefabricated sun loungers and introducing a distinctive ‘Glitter & Glamour’ floor in the recreational areas. In addition, several spaces were equipped with Bolideck^® LED flooring, combining functionality with immersive design.
With AIDAbella having recently returned to service after a Mediterranean voyage, future opportunities involve supporting the upcoming drydocks across the AIDA Cruises fleet. They include AIDAmar and AIDAblu, whose refurbishment is scheduled later this year, followed by AIDAsol and AIDAstella in 2027 and 2028, respectively. Bolidt was involved in the newbuild phase for all seven AIDA vessels.

Royal Caribbean: design and experience combined

A new project is starting this month aboard Harmony of the Seas as part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplification programme. During the refit in Cádiz, the Boardwalk area will be fully renovated.
In close collaboration with the owner’s design team, Bolidt developed a pier-inspired concept featuring alternating light and dark flooring and soft blue tones that evoke the sensation of water. Beyond aesthetics, the solution enhances comfort through integrated noise-reduction solutions using Bolideck^® Future Teak and Select Soft/Hard solutions.

Growth driven by proven partnerships

The continued demand for both refit and newbuild projects reflects a broader industry trend: cruise operators are increasingly looking for partners who contribute beyond product delivery, supporting design, execution and long-term performance. According to Robert van Aarle, this demand highlights both the confidence in proven solutions and the industry’s appetite for innovation. The growing interest in new applications, such as LED-integrated decking systems, further reinforces this direction. With projects across the globe and long-standing collaborations with leading cruise brands, Bolidt continues to deliver integrated, future-ready solutions for the cruise industry.