By
Laura Hyde |
The World, Residences at Sea, a privately owned residential yacht, has successfully completed its largest dry-dock project to date – a six-week transformation at Navantia shipyard in Cádiz, Spain.
The refurbishment, which cost over $30 million, included over 200 improvement projects and involved nearly 1,500 personnel across vendors, crew, and technical teams. These included the installation of a High Voltage Shore Connection (HVSC) system, which enabled the ship to make its first successful shore power connection. The HVSC system was built in partnership with technology firm ABB and includes over 600 metres of high-capacity cable.
The ship was also fitted with a new bulbous bow, optimised for fuel efficiency at the ship’s operating speed, reducing hull resistance by up to 10 per cent and improving ice navigation. Additional energy efficiency improvements included new chillers and fan coil units for the ship’s HVAC system; silicone underwater paint on the hull to reduce drag and deter marine growth; and upgrades to the ship’s Starlink, IPTV, and Wi-Fi systems to improve digital connectivity for residents and crew.
The new bulbous bow ready to be installed on The World, Residences at Sea
During the six-week project, refurbishments were also made to public and private spaces onboard, including the pool deck and grill, which was redesigned and now features new seating, a canopy inspired by nautical sails, and gourmet cooking facilities. A new cold plunge was installed in the ship’s spa and wellness centre to complement the existing sauna and steam room. The salon areas were refreshed and treatment rooms now feature heated floors. A newly contoured putting green and golf simulator with PGA Tour course play were also installed.
The ship’s pool deck and grill during the refurbishment
Approximately 50 private residences received upgrades ranging from new flooring and cabinetry to refreshed kitchens and bathrooms. The ship also now benefits from an expanded Zodiac fleet with the addition of a new 10-seat Zodiac Pro 850 for exploration of remote coastal and wildlife destinations.
The World, Residences at Sea in dry dock at Navantia shipyard in Cádiz, Spain
“From reducing our environmental impact through shore power to elevating resident life through modernised amenities, this achievement belongs to our entire community,” said Jessica Hoppe, president and CEO of The World. “Our residents have once again shown that they are deeply invested in the ship’s future, and in the future of responsible global travel.”
With residents back onboard, the ship, which debuted in Oslo, Norway, in March 2002, has resumed its global itinerary.
The World, Residences at Sea debuted in Oslo, Norway, in March 2002