THE HOME OF GLOBAL PASSENGER SHIP INTERIOR DESIGN 2026 REDEFINING DESIGN Studio DADO’s approach to creating emotionally resonant cruise ship interiors SUSTAINABLE STANDARDS My Nguyen discusses Holland America Line’s largest-ever enhancement project OPTIMISED OUTFITTING How passenger ship refurbishment and outfitting projects are evolving for the future
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3 £24.00 2026 Foreword Follow Cruise & Ferry: Executive editor Jon Ingleton Head of editorial Rebecca Gibson Editor Alex Smith Editorial team Kasturi Datta, Jacqui Griffiths, Richard Humphreys, Laura Hyde Publication manager Shelly Palmer Account managers Marie-Emmanuelle Dagri, James Luscombe, Kimberley McLean, Benedict Pask Publisher Toby Ingleton Production manager Stuart Fairbrother Design Bruce Graham, Libby Sidebotham, Dhanika Vansia Cover image Studio DADO Website development Chris Jackson Circulation Sophia Brinkley Advertise info@cruiseandferry.net Subscribe subscribe@tudor-rose.co.uk www.cruiseandferry.net/subscriptions Published by Tudor Rose Tudor House, 6 Friar Lane Leicester LE1 5RA Tel: +44 116 2229900 www.tudor-rose.co.uk ISSN 1367-2657 (Print) ISSN 2635-0394 (Online) Printed in Great Britain by The Manson Group. © 2026 Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored or transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means, including whether by photocopying, scanning, downloading onto computer or otherwise without the prior written permission from Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. Readers should take appropriate professional advice before acting on any issue raised herein. All wording in the Featured Partners section is based on content provided by the companies profiled. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising material and editorial contributions. The publisher assumes no liability for the return or safety of unsolicited art, photography or manuscripts. A well-designed ship interior is evident in the small details. A material that catches the light differently at noon and midnight. A lounge chair positioned to provide the perfect view of the horizon. None of these details happen by accident; they require the vision of talented designers, backed by the ambition of determined operators. On page 40, executives from MSC Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Hurtigruten and American Cruise Lines, alongside a selection of leading interior designers, explore how operators are moving beyond standardised templates – and how suppliers are helping them achieve this aim. The goal of fully circular ship interiors remains distant, but the will to create them is growing. Our 2026 Sustainable Maritime Interiors report – featuring signatories of the Sustainable Maritime Interiors declaration – charts how a growing number of operators, designers, outfitters and suppliers are beginning to treat end-of-life materials as a resource rather than waste. The feature on page 56 also highlights the commitments that will determine how quickly this ambition becomes common practice. Nowhere is that intent more visible than at Holland America Line, where sustainability is shaping the largest fleet enhancement project in the brand’s 153-year history. In our keynote interview on page 10, My Nguyen, the line’s director of interior design, discusses how environmental thinking is being woven into every stage of the programme. “The more coordinated these conversations become across the industry,” Nguyen says, “the easier it will be to turn innovation into the new normal.” Among those sharing their perspectives in this issue are our 2026 design legends Kai Bunge and Siegfried Schindler of Partner Ship Design, Andrea Bartoli of Carnival Corporation, Anna Wiebke of TUI Cruises and Jessica Payne of Windstar Cruises. Their views, and much more, await you in the pages ahead. Enjoy the read! Alex Smith Editor, Cruise & Ferry Interiors Beyond the template
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5 PUBLISHING PARTNERS www.aquariusinteriors.co.uk | arosmarine.com www.cruiseshipinteriors-europe.com | www.gerolamoscorza.it | www.robos.nl www.studiodado.com | www.xalersystems.com Cruise & Ferry is proud to partner with the following organisations to support and promote their global visions and objectives www.onecaribbean.org | www.cruising.org | www.expeditioncruisenetwork.com www.interferry.com | www.ifiworld.org | www.oceancouncil.org | www.wtcf.org.cn
CONTENTS 6 10 Interior views 62 Legend of the Seas: Royal Caribbean International’s third Icon-class ship will offer more dining, entertainment and family accommodation 64 Norwegian Luna: Norwegian Cruise Lines evolves its Prima Plus design with light-filled interiors and fluid indoor-outdoor living 66 Orient Express Corinthian: Maxime d’Angeac explains how the world’s largest sailing yacht evokes the brand’s history and luxury Keynote 10 My Nguyen of Holland America Line why she hopes the brand’s largest fleet enhancement project will inspire the wider industry to pursue sustainable marine interiors CFI curated 16 Opening with a report on how operators are reimagining dining venues, this section offers a collection of project updates, product spotlights, event previews and more Cover story 34 Javier Calle, Jorge Mesa and Yohandel Ruiz discuss Studio DADO’s approach to creating emotionally resonant cruise ship interiors Features 40 Executives, designers and suppliers explain how ship interiors are becoming more distinctive, brandled and commercially effective 50 CFI examines how new techniques, sustainable materials and turnkey project management are shaping ship refurbishment 56 In the 2026 SMI Report, operators, designers and suppliers discuss the prospect of achieving circularity in marine interior designs 34
7 Design perspectives 80 Andrea Bartoli of Carnival Corporation discusses how the company balances brand expectations with performance and sustainability across its fleet 82 TUI Cruises’ Anna Wiebke shares how the line creates enduring and individual interiors for its Mein Schiff fleet 84 Franco Smeraro of Oceania Cruises explains how partnerships have ushered in a new era of luxury cruising onboard Oceania Allura About the cover: This year marks the 10th anniversary of Studio DADO, the Miami-based boutique design studio that has significantly influenced the look and feel of today’s more memorable, engaging cruise ship environments. “While Studio DADO has only been in business a decade, the depth and breadth of our portfolio are worth celebrating,” says Yohandel Ruiz, one of the four original founders. “We are all passionate believers in the power of design to change the world, and the last 10 years have been a journey of discovery and wonder. From guestrooms, spas and dining venues that replenish the mind and body to public areas that stir soul, every space designed by Studio DADO tells a story.” Read more in the cover story on page 34. XX 40 68 Magellan Discoverer: Antarctica21’s Scandar Jacob shares more about the ship’s heritage-inspired design and hybrid technology 70 Transcend Connect: Fredrik Johansson of Viken Group discusses the adaptability of Transcend Cruises’ newest vessel 72 Capu Rossa: Corsica Linea’s newest ro-pax ferry has been tailored to meet the needs of guests on the Marseille-Corsica route Revitalisation 75 Celebrity Cruises’ Claire Stirrup discusses how the Solstice Series is evolving to offer new social spaces and contemporary interiors 77 Finnish outfitter MAKINEN discusses its key role in the refurbishment of AIDA Cruises’ AIDAbella 78 Windstar Cruises aims to maintain the appeal of its Wind-class fleet while catering to evolving demands with its multimillion-dollar refit project, says Jessica Payne 2026 68 77 80
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9 Interior commentaries 86 A sustainability-led approach helps cruise lines reduce costs and waste, says Luis Rincon of Xaler Systems 88 Fredrik Johansson explains how Tillberg Design of Sweden has shaped brands across a series of cruise projects Interviews 90 Jessica Payne of Windstar Cruises shares more about the cruise line’s creative partnership with Fountainhead Arts 92 Norwegian Cruise Line is evolving its ship interiors into emotionally engaging spaces, says Gary Anslow 95 Sean Anderson of Ocean Outfit discusses the outfitter’s approach to producing premium interiors 96 Gerolamo Scorza’s Alfredo de Flora explains how the outfitter is managing multiple refurbishments and newbuilds in 2026 97 Warren Offer discusses the details of Celebrity Solstice’s renovation, Aquarius Interiors’ biggest ever project 98 Cristina Stefani explains how Aquafil is demonstrating that circular design principles can be embedded into ship refurbishments 100 S MS Marine’s David McCarthy discusses the outfitter’s transformational refurbishments and success 98 120 CONTENTS 86 102 Sascha Bosch reveals how Robos’ new customer portal will give cruise lines greater transparency in their shipbuilding projects 104 Giedrius Valainis explains the reasoning behind AROS’ new brand direction Featured partners 107 Our guide to some of the finest companies involved in the cruise and ferry interiors sector Design legend 120 Kai Bunge and Siegfried Schindler: Partner Ship Design’s founders share insights and stories from their transformative 35 years at the helm of the firm
10 KEYNOTE Setting new standards for sustainability My Nguyen of Holland America Line explains to Rebecca Gibson why she hopes the largest fleet enhancement project in the brand’s 153-year history will inspire the wider industry to pursue sustainable marine interiors Holland America Line has embarked on the “most ambitious guest experience update” in its 153year history, investing more than $500 million to complete extensive bow-to-stern revitalisations on six of its 11 ships. The multi-year renovation project, carried out in collaboration with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, will cover the brand’s four Vista-class ships – Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam and Noordam – and two Signature-class vessels, Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam. The brand aims to expand bar and restaurant options, add new suite and stateroom categories and “bring the best” of the Pinnacle-class vessels onboard. It will also introduce experiences and venues that are new to the fleet. “We’re elevating our Vista- and Signature-class ships by bringing in features guests already love on our Pinnacle class,” says My Nguyen, senior director of design and innovation at Holland America Line and Seabourn. “This will allow us to enhance the guest experience in a meaningful way while ensuring the fleet continues to feel relevant and compelling for years to come.” The “focused investment in comfort, choice and experience” has been “strongly informed” by both guest and crew feedback, says Nguyen. “We listened closely to which spaces guests gravitate towards, how they use them, and where there were opportunities to expand choice.” Holland America Line will complete the refurbishments ship by ship, starting with Oosterdam, which will return to service fully revitalised in autumn 2027. During Oosterdam’s refit, Holland America Line will add 76 new staterooms and suites, giving guests more choice and flexibility, while increasing the ship’s overall capacity. New accommodation options will include 30 rooms purpose-built for solo travellers, each with a private balcony and dedicated workspace, as well as 24 Vista suites with seating areas, oversized windows and private verandas. There will also be 900-square-foot Bridgeview suites with separate living and sleeping areas, wraparound balconies and panoramic
11
12 windows offering 180-degree views. Both suites will be situated in the ship’s forward section, giving guests the same view as the captain sees from the bridge. The highlight will be the 1,550-square-foot Pinnacle Suite, which will be the largest stateroom ever introduced on a Vistaclass ship. It will offer a bedroom, a living room, an en-suite bath, a powder room, a walk-in wardrobe and a private balcony. Another notable addition is the the Grand Dutch Café, a signature Pinnacle-class venue inspired by the brand’s Dutch heritage and European cafe culture. It will be located on the lower decks near the atrium. “For now, we are only confirming some of the changes for Oosterdam, but will share more extensive details for this vessel and the others soon,” says Nguyen. While elevating the guest experience is Holland America Line’s priority, it will also focus heavily on reducing the overall environmental impact of the ships – both in terms of how they operate and the products used to refresh the interiors. In addition to investing in technical upgrades to improve energy efficiency and lower long-term operational carbon intensity, the brand aspires to follow a circular design approach and reduce waste by prioritising upcyling and reusing materials where possible. “Throughout the renovations, sustainability will remain an important element of the updates – our focus will be on revitalising the fleet while improving efficiency,” says Nguyen. “As we develop these designs, we aim to select materials thoughtfully, work with partners who are willing to explore circular strategies with us and look for practical ways to reduce waste during refurbishment. “When sustainability is considered at the beginning of a project, it opens up more opportunities for innovation, scale and practical solutions. During both refurbishment and newbuild projects, there is scope to think circularly and treat materials as resources rather than waste. For example, if multiple ships are KEYNOTE “ When sustainability is considered at the beginning of a project, it opens up more opportunities for innovation” Oosterdam will be upgraded with popular venues from the Pinnacle class, including The Grand Dutch Café
13 in dry dock at the same location over a short amount of time, there is potential for shared thinking around logistics and materials reuse. The more coordinated these conversations become across the industry, the easier it will be to turn innovation into the new normal.” As part of its commitment to designing sustainable interiors, Holland America Line has “intentionally structured” its team and appointed both a sustainability coordinator and a procurement manager. “They report directly to me and work alongside our designers and project managers,” says Nguyen. “This creates stronger alignment on specifications and clearer accountability with partners. We are still in early phases, so I can’t make specific commitments yet, but sustainability is a constant in our design discussions. Working with the right partners and communities can lead to legacy materials being reused or upcycled, which reduces waste. Meanwhile, thinking ahead circularly can help us make the best material choices and bring exciting new interiors to life.” Despite being steadfast in her commitment to prioritising sustainability wherever possible, Nguyen acknowledges it will be difficult during such a largescale renovation project. “Time is always a challenge, particularly when innovation needs to happen at scale and within fixed dry dock schedules,” she says. “While there are strong sustainable products in the market today, the industry needs more variety and availability. It can also take time to change mindsets when it comes to topics such as waste management. Real impact happens when all key stakeholders are willing to champion innovation and develop unique solutions to approach familiar processes in slightly different ways.” According to Nguyen, the solution to overcoming these barriers lies in a broader view of sustainability. “When evaluating materials and solutions, we look at sustainability holistically rather than through a single metric while considering factors such as durability, maintainability, regulatory requirements, material transparency and opportunities for reuse or recycling at end of life,” she says. “Cost and transportation impacts are part of those conversations as well, and often the best solutions come from balancing multiple priorities rather than optimising for just one. Our goal is to continue building partnerships that allow us to test, learn and evolve these approaches in a practical, scalable way.” Nguyen predicts cross-sector collaboration will help the industry Holland America Line will expand accommodation options and introduce 30 staterooms purpose-built for solo travellers on Oosterdam
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15 to innovate. “I’ve seen first hand that innovation accelerates when partners across design, sourcing and manufacturing share common sustainability goals,” she says. “When everyone at the table has a stake in the outcome, challenges such as costs, logistics or material constraints tend to turn from barriers into new opportunities for collaborative problem solving.” Holland America Line’s partnership with Danish carpet manufacturer Dansk Wilton is a “small but meaningful” example, says Nguyen. “Together, we’ve repurposed carpet waste into branded coasters that we sell to our guests. It’s not a large scale solution on its own, but it demonstrates how creative thinking can turn waste into something purposeful, financially viable and engaging for both our guests and partners. We’re interested in taking lessons from examples like this and applying them at a larger scale where possible.” As an ardent advocate of circular design and environmental sustainability, Nguyen hopes this project will encourage other passenger shipping operators to follow in Holland America Line’s footsteps when working on their own newbuild and refurbishment projects. “To me, success is embedding sustainability into the full design and development process, from early concepts through material selection, sourcing and long-term maintainability,” says Nguyen. “This approach naturally drives innovation and raises expectations in the market. My hope is that sustainable interior design can demonstrate what’s possible, and that criteria such as beauty, compliance with International Maritime Organization regulations, maintainability, affordability and sustainability can increasingly become standard expectations.” While Nguyen wants the industry to take note of Holland America Line’s sustainability achievements, her aim is for guests to feel as though it has been woven authentically to the brand. “The guest experience will always come first,” she says. “We want guests to step onboard and immediately feel an elevated ambience that is unmistakably Holland America Line; beautiful art that tells a story, layered colours and textures and an overall sense of elegance that feels authentic to the brand. I want them to sense we have created spaces that feel welcoming and familiar yet refreshed and more elegant – like a home away from home. I hope they will be impressed by the elevated feel of the interiors and the way sustainability is thoughtfully integrated into the design.” “ My hope is that sustainable interior design can demonstrate what’s possible” KEYNOTE My Nugyen and her team are working with partners like Dansk Wilton to find ways of reusing or repurposing waste materials
16 Cruise and ferry operators are reimagining onboard dining venues and introducing new, immersive culinary concepts as they explore ways to improve guest satisfaction and strengthen brand differentiation. In a recently completed project, Silversea introduced a new poolside concept to Silver Spirit, inspired by the Mediterranean coast. Designers conceived Riviera as an all-day venue, with wellness-focused experiences in the morning and casual dining concepts designed to support more social afternoon and evening use. The space features outdoor furniture, sun loungers, daybeds and umbrellas, as well as a golf putting green, ‘Off the Deck’ golf simulator and hitting bay. The refurbishment also enabled the brand to introduce its S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) programme to the ship, with venues including S.A.L.T. Kitchen, S.A.L.T. Bar and S.A.L.T. Lab. Silversea developed the programme to deepen guests’ cultural and culinary connections to each destination they visit by offering regionally inspired menus, local spirits and custom cocktails, and hands-on cooking classes focused on regional tastes and traditions across the S.A.L.T. venues. Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has redesigned its speciality restaurant Colours & Tastes onboard Bolette as part of a wider fleet refresh. Warm neutral tones, refined textures, and carefully selected artwork define the new interior, which is paired with a rotating themed menu featuring Italian and Asian-fusion cuisine. Speciality dining venues, Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar, have been introduced onboard MSC Cruises’ MSC Poesia following refurbishment. Butcher’s Cut is a traditional Americanstyle steakhouse where guests can enjoy premium cuts of meat, including beef CFI CURATED Operators transform dining venues into immersive hospitality spaces Several operators are reimagining onboard dining venues to create more engaging spaces designed to increase guest satisfaction and brand differentiation
17 from Meat by Linz, as well as classic sides. The reimagined Kaito Sushi Bar is an elegant dining venue inspired by East Asia, where guests can dine on sushi and authentic Asian dishes. The cruise line is also upgrading the MSC Yacht Club restaurant across its Fantasia-class ships. The redesigned restaurant, combines darker tones, soft-textured finishes and layered lighting. Stena Line refreshed the buffet restaurant and bar areas onboard its ferries Stena Germanica and Stena Scandinavica in February 2026 as part of a refurbishment project to give the vessels a modern, fresh look. The operator has also updated the Sun Deck Bar on the outdoor deck to give passengers a “better travel experience”. Royal Caribbean International’s fourth Icon-class ship, Hero of the Seas, will offer a record 28 dining venues when it launches in summer 2027. Returning venues include Izumi, Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. New additions include Orleans Parish Supper Club, a multi-course venue inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter, and Royal Railway-Hero Station, a technology-led dining experience set in a train car. The ship will also offer hands-on cooking classes for all ages. Azamara Cruises will introduce a new Chef’s Table dining experience to its four ships as part of its Azamara Forward refurbishment programme. The concept will expand on the brand’s popular French, Italian and Signature Chef’s Table experience, but will introduce a rotating series of themed menus inspired by the destinations the ship visits. The experience will debut exclusively onboard Azamara Quest in December 2026. The cruise line’s Atlas Bar experience, will be redesigned and relocated next to Discoveries Restaurant which will also be redesigned with new decor, lighting and updated furnishings. The interiors onboard Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ newest vessel S.S. Emilie draw inspiration from Austrian artist Gustav Klimt and his muse Emilie Flöge. Dining onboard has been centred around one main venue, Gustav’s Restaurant on the Athene Deck, which features large windows, comfortable yet elegant seating and menus with both regional influences and familiar favourites. Additionally, refurbishment projects onboard Windstar Cruises’ Wind Star and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice saw dining venues refreshed with updated furnishings, flooring and wall finishes, as well as updated menus. Read more about Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice Series on page 75 and Windstar Cruise’s Wind-class fleet on page 78.
18 Oitoemponto designs suites for Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expedition yacht Portuguese design studio Oitoemponto has designed 200 suites for luxury expedition sailing yacht Atlas Adventurer, which is set to make its debut in 2028. The suites will span three categories: the Signature Collection, Concierge Collection and Reserve Collection. The Reserve Collection will offer a selection of 565-square-feet penthouse suites and 1,100-squarefeet, two-bedroom owners suites. The Signature and Concierge collections, meanwhile, will include a range of veranda and panorama ocean suites. CFI CURATED Stena Line to invest £14 million in Irish Sea fleet upgrades Stena Line is to invest £14 million (US$18.8 million) to refurbish guest accommodation and public spaces onboard the 11 ferries in its Irish Sea fleet, as it aims to strengthen reliability and guest experience. The ferry operator will renovate cabins across all vessels, increase the number of pet-friendly cabins, modernise family entertainment areas and enhance the Stena Plus lounges. “This investment demonstrates our dedication to delivering the highest standards of safety, efficiency, comfort and reliability for our customers,” said Mark Scouler, fleet manager for the Irish Sea at Stena Line. Photo: Atlas Ocean Voyages
20 CFI CURATED Crystal Cruises reveals renderings of Crystal Grace’s dining venues Crystal Cruises has shared insights into the new design of speciality restaurants Umi Uma, Osteria d’Ovidio and Beefbar onboard Crystal Grace from Tillberg Design of Sweden. Umi Uma will feature a full-height glass wall with unobstructed ocean views, alongside a drop-in sushi bar and a reservation-only main dining room. Beefbar and Osteria d’Ovidio will include covered outdoor dining areas, with a shared bar connecting the two venues. Oceania Nautica to be relaunched as Oceania Aurelia Oceania Cruises is set to redesign Oceania Nautica and relaunch it as Oceania Aurelia in late 2027. Oceania Aurelia will have 238 suites, 179 of which will be in the ultra-luxury category with butler service. These suites will be designed with longer voyages in mind, emphasising comfort. The redesign will also add a new Chef’s Studio, which will be equipped for culinary workshops; the Artist’s Loft, where travellers can participate in creative activities; and LYNC Digital Center, which will host a variety of interactive classes. Lighting manufacturer Cristallux developed chandeliers for the lift lobby of Norwegian Luna, the fourth ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima-class. The ship was delivered by Fincantieri in March 2026. Cristallux develops and manufactures chandeliers for Norwegian Luna
Dibella’s Services: Wide standard assortment range promptly available Modular logistic system with large warehouse in Germany Individual requests on short notice: own sewing facility in Czech Republic Direct equipment of RFID transponders possible On request up to 60% recycled polyester content in bed linen Technical support for increase of energy efficiency during the drying process Pre-financing of goods and storing them for call-off And many more … A pioneer in sustainable hospitality textiles, Dibella offers a high-quality range of durable, sustainably certified bed linen and terry towels, bathmats and bathrobes designed to meet the rigorous demands of the cruise industry. Our standard range already offers durable textiles that fulfil legal ecological and social requirements and is certified with OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN and the German Green Button. Our premium range focuses on maximum sustainability and transparency. All products are Fairtrade and GOTS-certified, which guarantees particularly environmentally friendly and socially responsible production from the field to the finished product. A trusted partner to operators across Europe, Dibella combines innovation, responsibility and reliability to deliver exceptional and on demand individualised textile solutions at sea. dibellatextiles.com Setting standards at Sea Dibella Textiles on Board Latest project: continuing our valued partnership with TUI Cruises - providing GOTS certified bed and bath linen for the new Mein Schiff Flow. © TUI Cruises GmbH
Skopos launches new coloured voile collections certified for marine use The International Maritime Organization has certified Skopos Fabrics’ two new flame retardant voile collections for marine use. Cove offers 15 mineral-toned colourways with matte finishes, while Shellen draws on a coastal palette with a raindrop-slub design that adds depth and movement. Both collections reduce glare without blocking natural light, provide sound absorption and are woven from 100 per cent recycled flame-retardant polyester, washable at 30 Celsius . Wide-width constructions – 327 centimetres for Cove and 315 centimetres for Shellen – make them suited to large windows. The voiles can function as window treatments, room dividers or lobby backdrops, adding to Skopos’ existing Essential Voiles and Karoo collections. Holland America Line’s Koningsdam emerged from a two-week dry dock with significant upgrades ahead of its summer 2026 Alaska season. The ship gained five new staterooms, each sleeping up to four guests and featuring a double sofa bed alongside two beds that convert to queen size. A further 22 Vista suites received new sofa beds. Entertainment spaces were also refreshed, with new lounge seating connecting the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard venues, and an expanded casino improving guest flow. The Effy boutique received a full makeover, including new wall finishes, flooring, lighting, display fixtures and a central chandelier. Speciality dining venues now offer flexible, moveable table arrangements. Koningsdam refurbished ahead of Alaska season 23 CFI CURATED
As customer expectations and operational demands continue to rise, CFI showcases equipment, furnishings and materials for the next generation of food and beverage venues Textures of taste CFI CURATED 1 2 6 24 5
1 Sveba Dahlen’s Pizza Vichinga is a multifunctional electric oven designed for cruise and ferry operators seeking flexibility, efficiency and guest appeal. It bakes authentic Neapolitan pizza at up to 500C, classic pizza at lower temperatures and can also be used for products such as pita bread. With no naked flames or firewood, robust marineready construction and the aroma of freshly baked food enhancing the onboard restaurant experience, it is a versatile food concept well suited for use at sea. 2 Rak Porcelain’s Vibe dinnerware collection sets the mood through form as much as function. Delicate in appearance and engineered for lasting durability, its fluid silhouettes and subtly sculpted edges introduce a sense of movement and rhythm to the table. Bridging the classic and the contemporary, each piece is designed to complement the dining experience. Available in three colourways, Polaris, Calm and Zen, the collection offers a palette that can adapt to any aesthetic. 3 The Merrychef conneX 12 from Welbilt Marine is a high-speed marine oven that cooks, toasts, grills and reheats food up to 80 per cent faster than conventional equipment, eliminating the need for multiple appliances. Built from durable stainless steel, it withstands corrosive environments, vibration and shock. It features a seveninch HD touchscreen, easyTouch 2.0 controls, and Wi-Fi/ethernet connectivity for remote updates. A front-mounted air filter and sealed cavity simplify cleaning, while mounting brackets allow secure marine installation for fast, convenient food preparation. 4 The CART, a mobile ice cream cart by Shopworks, is part of a portfolio of high-end solutions under The Keep Collection by Shores Global. Crafted using the highest marine-grade materials, the CART ensures durability, performance, sustainability and refined aesthetics in demanding environments. Its modular design allows seamless customisation, from integrated power supply, refrigeration, lighting and more. 5 Mixologiq’s cocktail maker, supplied by Welbilt Marine, provides intelligent cocktail automation for passenger ships, combining precision engineering and plug-and-play simplicity to serve barquality cocktails in under 30 seconds. Features include touchscreen control, built-in refrigeration and semi-automated cleaning for hygiene. Mixologiq is available in two configurations: MIXO 8 for simplicity and MIXO 20 for variety. 6 Natural Linen from Morbern Europe brings a refined, organic look to the bars and restaurants aboard today’s cruise ships. Made for high-traffic hospitality spaces, this premium, easy maintenance, coated fabric stands up to demanding indoor and outdoor use whilst maintaining a soft, textile aesthetic. It features a 100 per cent recycled polyester backing – with each metre comprising 12 repurposed postconsumer PET bottles per metre – making it a sustainable choice. The fabric has Marine Equipment Directive certification, ensuring it meets safety standards without compromising style. 3 4 25
26 WDC Spaces develops interior concepts for Royal Daffodil WDC Spaces has worked with Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, APCL Cammell Laird and MPE Interiors to develop interior design concepts for Mersey Ferries’ new Royal Daffodil. Set to operate on the River Mersey in Liverpool, UK, Royal Daffodil is the first newbuild to join the Mersey Ferries fleet in 60 years and is designed to accommodate up to 500 passengers. It will be a fully accessible vessel featuring modern, flexible event spaces, bars and bike storage. “WDC Spaces applied a fresh look to the vessel’s layout, refining the arrangement of spaces to create a more open, comfortable and memorable experience – with the passenger at the centre of every decision,” said Jason West, director of WDC Creative. “Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to celebrate Mersey Ferries’ heritage while delivering a modern experience. The design balances high-quality finish with a contemporary flair, ensuring that the interior feels fresh and relevant without losing sight of what makes Mersey Ferries so distinctive.” WDC Spaces is also designing wayfinding signage and a series of storytelling installations that will depict the history of Mersey Ferries. “Seating and circulation areas onboard Royal Daffodil are open and approachable, and every aspect – from furniture to lighting – has been selected to make these spaces feel welcoming and consistent with the ferry’s overall character,” said West. Royal Daffodil completed sea trials in April and is set to debut in 2026. Look out for more about Royal Daffodil in the next issue of Cruise & Ferry Review, which will be released in August 2026. A visualisation of the lower deck on Royal Daffodil Photo: WDC Spaces Suspended in the soaring atrium of Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas, ‘Celestial Turtles’ by Studio Roso is the vessel’s defining centrepiece. Two sea turtles glide through a cascading school of shimmering forms, assembled from hundreds of iridescent hand-worked metal fragments. Light shifts across their surfaces – moving between deep ocean blues, violets and warm copper – mirroring the play of sunlight on water. CFI CURATED
KLASIFIED.se APRIL 2026 DOBEL® – DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN SWEDEN With over 50 years of experience delivering high- quality film-laminated metal for cruise ship interiors, Metalcolour and DOBEL® are well-known and trusted brands in the marine Industry. We have the flexibility and accurate delivery assurances that are crucial to match the needs connected to both new build and refurbishment projects. Please visit metalcolour.com Want to learn more? Please contact Sales Manager Per Nord for more details Please visit us at Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo in Miami, 9–10 June, 2026. You’ll find us in Booth 923. Please contact per.nord@metalcolour.com if you want to set up a personal meeting Design Expo Americas 9–10 June in Miami MSC World Asia to offer new entertainment experiences MSC Cruises is to introduces several new venues across the Family Aventura District on MSC World Asia when it debuts in December 2026. MSC Luna Park Arena will feature an interactive floor and serve as the first immersive gaming experience on an MSC ship, hosting three original game shows. The Harbour will have a new Play Deck, while The Clubhouse will debut bumper cars, roller skating and a new obstacle challenge, Out of Control. Doremiland, meanwhile, will include an MSC Formula Racer simulator and two new Lego-themed rooms. An expanded teenage entertainment programme, led by AI avatar Yuna, rounds out the new offerings.
28 CFI CURATED: PRODUCT FOCUS Bedside luminaire by Hera Hera’s cabin reading light features a 350-degree swivel and 90-degree tilt, with direct 230-volt connection. It is available in multiple colours and offers a rated lifespan of 60,000 hours. Hera also backs its lighting range with a system guarantee of up to five years and holds regular safety certifications for its lighting systems. Staynu by skai skai’s range of artificial leathers with staynu technology – Tovega EN, Toronto EN and Parotega NF – feature a finish that makes surfaces stain resistant and easy to clean, even after heavy use. The collection suits a wide range of applications, from chairs and benches to wall coverings and bed headboards. Tovega EN offers a contemporary micro-pore look, while Toronto EN and Parotega NF deliver a classic leather grain aesthetic, giving interior designers flexible options without compromising on performance. Monaco terry towel by Dibella Dibella’s Monaco terry towel is made from 100 per cent cotton with a fine pile yarn, giving it a soft texture and smooth surface. It is finished with an American-style hem and is suited for use in cruise ship spas, wellness and beauty facilities. The Monaco towel is sustainably certified and designed to meet the durability requirements of the cruise industry. Refillution by ADA Cosmetics ADA Cosmetics' Refillution is an automated dispenser refill system designed to integrate seamlessley with the company's other products such as SmartCare Mini, a 200-millilitre dispenser for cruise cabin bathrooms. Refillution enables fast and hygenic refiling and reduces housekeeping time. Additionally, the system cuts plastic waste by up to 95 per cent and reduces storage needs, onboard weight and resupply complexity. Refillution complies with European Union regulations and US cosmetics regulations for product traceability. Photo: Marine Interior Images Eye-catching interior elements CFI picks out four products for passenger ships that captured our attention in recent months
CFI CURATED: EVENT PREVIEW Taking place on 9-10 June 2026 at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Florida, the 2026 edition of Cruise Ship Interiors (CSI) Design Expo Americas will boast several new show features and activations designed to highlight the creativity of the industry. A gamified Discovery Trail, integrated within the show app, will guide select attendees through must-see exhibitors, standout sessions and key networking moments, collecting points along the way for the chance to win a $500 Amazon voucher, courtesy of SD Marine Interiors. Plus, industry professionals can explore the Sustainable Materials Library in the Cruise & Ferry Interiors VIP Lounge, join a collaborative Collage Art Workshop involving interior designers and exhibitors, and visit the Design Deck, a curated space celebrating design studios across the industry. The schedule of content – which is accredited by the International Design Continuing Education Council – will put industry professionals at the forefront of cruise design and guest experience. Sessions will spotlight technologies and techniques driving the industry to work smarter, evolving megatrends and guest expectations, the unique challenges of designing for island destinations and details of how shipyards are reshaping what’s possible for the refurbishment market. Panel discussions, fireside Q&As and real-world case studies will offer insights as expert speakers from Royal Caribbean International, Virgin Voyages, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Carnival 30 Photo: Elite Exhibitions Creativity at the core of Miami show The cruise interior industry is preparing for CSI Design Expo Americas 2026, which takes place on 9-10 June in Miami
31 Cruise Line, SMC Design, YSA Design, II BY IV DESIGN and many other firms explore the innovations leading to the next generation of cruise ship environments. Sustainable Design Summit will return to CSI Design Expo with the Miami Working Group Breakfast taking place on 10 June. The collaborative roundtable session, ‘Breaking the cycle – how designers shape measurable sustainable outcomes,’ will bring together sustainability specialists, specifiers, trusted suppliers and key stakeholders to explore what it takes to design an eco-friendly space from first concept to end of life. The session will be following by a networking break allowing attendees to exchange ideas, discuss practical outcomes and connect with like-minded peers. More than 250 exhibitors will showcase their latest products and services over the course of two days. Attendees will be able to discover a marketplace of innovation from design studios, outfitters and interior suppliers. Notable exhibitors will include Tillberg Design of Sweden, Marine Interiors, Serge Ferrari, Daze, Janus et Cie, Morandistudio, Sekers, PS Interiors, WhiteWater, Forma by Step2 and Chelsom. Participants will also be able to join various networking events, including peer-to-peer networking events with cruise line executives and speed networking with pre-matched meetings between qualified buyers and exhibitors. There will also be the NEWH Lunch & Learn and Happy Hour. Invitation-only events will include the Opening Party, the exclusive AfterHours, which will take place in a secret location, and wellness activities such as sunrise yoga and beach fitness classes. Photos: Elite Exhibitions
CFI CURATED: EVENT PREVIEW 32 2 Dansk Wilton Booth #1025 Dansk Wilton will showcase Nature Melange, a carpet concept inspired by nature. The product has been developed to highlight the natural character and inherent melange effect of wool, while introducing a colour palette extending beyond its undyed tones. Dansk Wilton has built on its ORIGIN concept, dyeing both lighter and darker wool fibres, to create two distinct shades from a single colour. This approach achieves a rich, textured surface while optimising the dyeing process and supporting the company’s ambition to reach the silver Cradle to Cradle Certified level. Must-see suppliers CFI picks out eight suppliers that should not be missed on a trip to CSI Design Expo Americas 2026 4 Metalcolour Booth #923 Metalcolour, a supplier of surface materials for cruise ship interiors, will showcase Dobel, its range of surface materials with a reduced carbon footprint. With sustainability requirements in the construction and refurbishment of cruise ships continuing to rise, Metalcolour has worked closely with its partners to source new raw materials and refine processes to meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. 2 3 F. Ball & Co. Ltd. Booth #1228 F. Ball will exhibit its marine-certified products for creating flooring installations in marine environments. Marine Equipment Directive certified and tested in accordance with IMO standards, F. Ball’s marine range includes adhesives for installing textile and resilient floorcoverings in indoor and outdoor areas that are subject to high levels of foot traffic and surface water. The range also includes smoothing compounds with specialist features for creating a perfectly smooth surface prior to the installation of floorcoverings. 1 Carnegie Booth #1230 Carnegie will present Xorel, a high-performance, PVC-free textile engineered for cruise environments. Available as Xorel Cruise wallcovering and Xorel Luxe upholstery with X-Protect backing, the textile is durable and easy to clean. Both Xorel products are International Maritime Organization (IMO)-approved and Wheelmark-certified, offering a cohesive material solution across applications. Backed by 40 years of proven performance and robust custom capabilities, Xorel supports bespoke pattern development and rapid prototyping, helping designers create elevated, resilient interiors at sea. 1
33 5 6 Remer Rubinetterie Booth #913 Remer Rubinetterie will present a complete range of bathroom solutions designed for cruise ship cabins and high-end suites at CSI Design Expo Americas. Stainless steel collections, wellness solutions and wide range of Physical Vapour Deposition finishes come together in an offering that combines aesthetics, durability and comfort. From bathroom taps to wellness and built-in systems, each element can be customised with the help of dedicated technical project support. 5 Reliatex Booth #1021 Reliatex will be showcasing Hyphyn, its biodegradable performance vinyl designed for high-demand environments. Engineered to break down in landfill conditions, Hyphyn addresses end-of-life impact while maintaining the durability, cleanability and aesthetics expected at sea. Now available with IMO Part 8 compliance through Reliatex, Hyphyn meets the stringent safety standards required for cruise applications, without compromise. 8 Temprotech Booth #752 Temprotech will be showcasing Deckboard, a heavyweight version of Correx manufactured specifically to protect external decks from accidental damage caused by the movement of trolleys, fork-lifts and equipment. Deckboard can provide a safe route to reduce damage from heavy impact or friction and can also be used to create landing pads for containers being hoisted directly onto decks. Unlike plywood, Deckboard is not affected by moisture and is clean, lightweight and easy to cut, yet highly impact-resistant and durable enough to be reused on successive newbuild and refit projects. 7 ROBOS Contract Furniture Booth #1221 Attendees can visit ROBOS Contract Furniture to see the furniture supplier’s cabanas, a comfortable outdoor seat with aesthetic appeal. The cabanas are intended to provide comfort and elegance to the outside space. Each cabana can be fully customised to the client’s vision by changing elements such as fabrics, materials, dimensions and finishes. 4 7 8 6 3
COVER STORY A decade of redefining cruise design Rebecca Gibson asks Javier Calle, Jorge Mesa and Yohandel Ruiz how Studio DADO’s innovative approach to creating emotionally resonant cruise ship interiors has transformed the guest experience Drawn together by a shared set of values and an aim of “genuinely reimagining” the cruise guest experience, interior designers Javier Calle, Jorge Mesa, Yohandel Ruiz and Greg Walton opened Studio DADO in Miami, Florida, on 3 November 2016. Supported by Walton’s Italian greyhound Enzo – who served as the firm’s unofficial mascot until his owner retired in January 2025 – the team began working in a modest South Beach apartment. “We had a few Ikea tables, some broken keyboards, old laptops and a plant a friend gave us as a good luck charm,” recalls Mesa. “Somehow we got the table assembled and made everything work. That first year was probably the most challenging, but also the most fun by far.” The team started developing its design approach by asking one simple question – what if? “We’re all world travellers and we knew what was out there, especially in the cruise industry,” says Calle. “We knew it could be so much better.” Studio DADO quickly established that the key to elevating the guest experience lay in designing immersive spaces people could connect with on a personal level. “When we design a ship, we rarely think of it as a ship,” explains Ruiz. “Our goal is to create spaces that compete on the same level as those in a high-quality, land-based resort or a starred restaurant in a first-tier city. To do that, we aim to cue an emotional response from the guests, so we start by asking how we want them to feel, how we can enrich their lives or how we can help them create a shared memory with someone they love. The design has 34 “ Our goal is to create spaces that compete on the same level as those in a high-quality, land-based resort” Yohandel Ruiz
Photo: Douglas Friedman 35 Inspired by great European conservatories, Oceania Allura’s Grand Dining room features hydrangea chandeliers
36 to work from a practical standpoint, and comply with ISO requirements, but it also has to stir the soul and remind us all why travel is such a fulfilling and transformative experience.” Calle explains that design must offer guests “some version” of escape. “A stateroom or dining venue should do more than function well; it should draw people out of their everyday life and into something more vivid and emotionally resonant,” he says. “We go beyond logistics to focus on the elements people remember – the room, the lighting, the mood during dinner, the sense their experience felt a little heightened. This is what shapes how guests talk about their trip. We’re always chasing that emotional connection and when we get it right, guests carry that memory with them forever.” Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) was one of the first major brands to recognise Studio DADO’s potential and enlisted the firm to refine the luxury positioning of its Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises (Regent) brands. “NCLH gave us our first big break,” says Mesa. “We aligned on several core tenets, most notably the importance of guest experience and that great design is a key differentiator. We were hired to work on Norwegian Cruise Line’s R-class and Jewel-class ships, which led to our project on the first Prima-class vessel, Norwegian Prima.” The companies have since collaborated on subsequent Prima-class vessels, as well as several ships for both Oceania Cruises and Regent. “NCLH was the perfect early client and remains an important partner,” says Mesa. “The team cares about design and creating unforgettable experiences for guests. They see the value we bring to the table and give us a lot of latitude.” The success of these projects led to projects for other brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and river operator American Cruise Lines. “That’s when we knew we had something special,” says Mesa. As Studio DADO’s client base and project portfolio expanded, the firm refined its business processes and strengthened both its team and capabilities. “We were a small, boutique practice but we were “ We still have a lot of fun with our work and that makes a huge difference” Javier Calle Oceania Vista’s private dining space Privee is designed to make guests feel like they are dining inside a flower, with the backlit debossed walls and the chandelier resembling the petals and the pistils, respectively COVER STORY Photo: Nick Tortajada
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