AIDA Cruises is expanding the largest modernization program in its history to the next class of ships, Hyperion, with the AIDAperla and AIDAprima.

The company shared in a press release that they will be the next ships upgraded under the Evolution program, in parallel with Selection-class ships that are set to undergo the Evolution treatment by 2028.

The AIDAperla is scheduled to enter drydock from April 2 to May 2, 2027, at the French shipyard Chantier Naval de Marseille, with the AIDAprima to follow one year later, from April 21 to May 21, 2028.

The AIDAperla will then welcome its first post-Evolution guest on the 10-day “Mediterranean Highlights” itinerary roundtrip from Mallorca on May 2, 2027, calling at Corsica, Sardinia, Naples, La Spezia, Rome/Civitavecchia and Barcelona.

The AIDAprima’s first cruise following the drydock, “Pearls of the Mediterranean,” is scheduled for May 21, 2028, a seven-day voyage roundtrip from Mallorca visiting Marseille, Rome/Civitavecchia, La Spezia and Barcelona.

“AIDA Evolution is much more than the modernization of our ships. We are consistently developing the AIDA vacation experience, combining proven and popular concepts with the wishes of our guests,” said Steffi Heinicke, senior vice president guest experience AIDA Cruises.

“On AIDAperla and AIDAprima, we are building on an already very diverse range of offerings and setting new accents in a targeted manner: with additional restaurants and bars, new favorite places and versatile experience areas for all generations. In this way, we are leading AIDA Evolution into the next phase.”

New and Enhanced Restaurants and Bars

The expanded culinary offering will include the introduction of Best Burger @ Sea, adding burger variations to the selection onboard.

On deck 7, the new East Fusion will offer Asia & Sushi variations, with the addition of a hotpot option and Korean barbecue directly at the table.

Also new on this ship class is the Teppanyaki Asia Grill, where food is prepared right in front of the guests.

New on deck 7 will be the Art Bar, combining an art gallery with cocktails, drinks and barista coffee.

On deck 8, the new Panorama Lounge & Bar will feature a menu that includes signature cocktails and an exclusive teatime.

The Spray Bar in the bow of the ships is getting a facelift, featuring a modern look and a large, interactive LED video wall, and new entrance via the D6 disco.

The new Chilli Out Bar on deck 8 will add Latin American flavors with Mexican tacos, fiery snacks and fruity drinks.

Updated Lounge Areas and Cabins

The Theatrium will also be updated as part of AIDA Evolution, getting new lounge and seating furniture for an even more comfortable living room atmosphere in the heart of the ships.

The offer at AIDA Plaza will be expanded and more seating added.

The cabins will feature new design, with some getting new textiles and pillows. They will be equipped with USB ports on the beds and new mirrors with night light function in the bathrooms.

Thanks to redesigning and optimizing various areas, new interior, sea view and balcony cabins will also be added.

Family Areas

As for the leisure and family areas, the Four Elements Activity Deck will get a new net structure on the upper level, making it accessible for climbing, chilling and exploring.

The Fun Park Air will replace the previous climbing garden and will be open to guests of all ages.

Another novelty on this ship class will be a minigolf course on deck 16, featuring various obstacles.

For the youngest guests, the Kids Club will get an outdoor area, complemented with a mini play corner in the Beach Club.

The Teens Lounge in the D6 disco will be expanded, paired with the Game Center on deck 15.