The World, the largest privately owned residential yacht, has completed its most ambitious dry dock to date, introducing a series of sustainability and lifestyle upgrades aimed at enhancing both onboard comfort and environmental performance.
The six-week, $30 million project took place at Navantia Shipyard in Cádiz, Spain, involving more than 1,500 personnel across vendors, crew, and technical teams.
Over 200 individual upgrades were completed as part of the vessel’s long-term commitment to innovation.
Among the most significant updates was the installation of a High Voltage Shore Connection (HVSC) system. The World made company history on July 12, 2025, when it connected to shore power for the first time in Valletta, Malta.
The system, built in partnership with ABB, enables the vessel to shut down its engines while in port, reducing emissions and noise pollution.
Other sustainability enhancements include:
- New bulbous bow engineered to reduce hull resistance and improve ice navigation
- Silicone underwater coating to minimize drag and marine growth
- High-efficiency HVAC systems for reduced energy use
- Expanded IT systems, including upgraded Starlink and Wi-Fi coverage for remote regions
“We’ve reduced our environmental impact while modernizing the experience for our Residents,” said Jessica Hoppe, President & CEO of The World. “This achievement belongs to our entire community.”
Public and private areas also saw improvements:
- Refreshed pool deck and grill, with new seating, acoustic upgrades, and a sail-inspired canopy
- Spa additions, including a cold plunge, heated treatment room floors, and updated salon areas
- Golf simulator and new putting green with PGA Tour course play
- New Zodiac Pro 850, expanding the ship’s expedition capabilities
- Upgrades to 50 private residences, with updated cabinetry, flooring, kitchens, and bathrooms
The World’s commitment to proactive maintenance continues to yield measurable benefits. Following a recent evaluation, classification society DNV estimated the ship’s “fatigue age” at just 5.6 years—about one-quarter of its actual age.
The vessel was also awarded a Statement of Extended Life at Seatrade Cruise Global earlier this year.
With these upgrades now complete and residents back aboard, The World continues its 2025 global voyage.
