The World Cruise Ship Completes $30M Overhaul

The World, the only fully residential cruise ship, has just completed significant upgrades and modernization. The ship underwent a six-week, $30 million dry-dock at Navantia Shipyard in Cádiz, Spain. Nearly 1,500 people worked across more than 200 projects, improving both sustainability and lifestyle features.

Among the most notable changes was the installation of a cold ironing (high voltage shore connection) system. For the first time, The World can shut down its engines and plug into port-side electrical grids, cutting emissions and noise while docked. The new system was put to use in Valletta, Malta, for the first time in July 2025.

The World prepares to use its newly installed cold-ironing system for the first time at Malta. Image courtesy of The World Residences at Sea. — *The World* prepares to use its newly installed cold-ironing system for the first time at Malta. Image courtesy of The World Residences at Sea.

Sustainability and Lifestyle Upgrades

The refit balanced technical improvements with resident comfort. A redesigned bulbous bow will improve fuel performance, while eco-friendly silicone paint reduces drag.

On board, enhancements included a refreshed pool deck, a spa cold plunge, an upgraded golf simulator, and a new 10-seat Zodiac for exploration. About 50 private homes were also renovated with updated flooring, cabinetry, and modernized kitchens and baths.

The World’s recent drydock refurbishment included a refreshed pool deck. Image courtesy of The World Residences at Sea.

After the dry dock, classification society DNV issued a rare Statement of Extended Life, reporting that the vessel’s fatigue age was just 5.6 years—only a fraction of its true age.

A Pioneer in Residential Cruising

Since its launch in 2002, The World has stood alone in the cruise sector of residential cruise ships. For more than two decades it has been the only ship where residents own private homes, guide itineraries collectively, and enjoy a resort-style lifestyle.

Its latest overhaul shows how the vessel continues to evolve, blending exclusivity, sustainability, and global exploration. While other projects have emerged and faltered, The World has endured, offering a rare example of permanence in a market that is still testing its future.