How Much Does It Cost to Refurbish a Cruise Ship?

By Anna Duncan

Refurbishing a cruise ship can be a costly endeavor, as it takes a substantial financial commitment to bring an aging vessel back to its former glory. The cost of refurbishing a cruise ship depends on the size of the project, the materials and labor involved, and the number of amenities being added or upgraded. While it’s difficult to give an exact estimate for such a large-scale renovation, some estimates suggest that it could cost anywhere from $500 million to $1 billion for larger vessels – with smaller ships costing significantly less.

The cost of refurbishment typically includes both interior and exterior renovations and updates. Exterior updates may include painting and other aesthetic touches, while interior updates could involve installing new carpeting, furniture, fixtures, appliances, or other amenities. Additionally, any major mechanical repairs or upgrades must also be accounted for in the overall cost.

Labor costs are often one of the biggest expenses associated with refurbishing a cruise ship. Professional engineers and tradespeople must be brought in to do the work necessary to bring the ship up to code.

This could include replacing any outdated components or systems such as engines, generators, navigational equipment, plumbing systems, electrical wiring and more. Additionally, any structural repairs that need to be made due to wear-and-tear over time will add to the overall labor costs.

Finally, depending on what type of amenities are being added or upgraded during refurbishment (such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools and spas), there may be additional costs associated with purchasing new furniture or fixtures for these areas. The price tag for these items can vary widely depending on quality and style.

Conclusion:

Refurbishing a cruise ship is no small task – it requires a considerable financial commitment in order to bring an aging vessel back up to code. The exact cost of such a project varies depending on the size of the ship itself as well as which amenities are being added or upgraded during refurbishment. On average however estimates suggest that it could cost anywhere from $500 million upwards of $1 billion for larger vessels – with smaller ships costing significantly less.