Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas entered Sembawang Shipyard in Singapore to begin a month-long, $54 million drydock where it will undergo a major make-over and emerge with an array of new features. The ship revamp is the largest of its kind ever to take place in Singapore and will employ more than 800 local workers from the region.

Rhapsody of the Seas will receive a host of new dining and entertainment venues as well as an assortment of technological upgrades. The ship also will receive a bow-to-stern refresh of all furniture, carpet and upholstery, including renovated staterooms.

Adam Goldstein, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International said:

“With our $300 million investment throughout 2014, no ship in our fleet will go untouched and our guests will have an unrivalled holiday experience no matter which destination in the world they visit or on what ship they sail.” 

Similar to sister-ship Splendour of the Seas, which underwent its refurbishment in November 2011, Rhapsody of the Seas will receive new dining venues, including Chops Grille, Izumi Asian Cuisine, Chef’s Table experience and Park Cafe. Additional offerings include a Diamond Lounge for Crown and Anchor loyalty guests, a Concierge Lounge for suite guests and top tier loyalty guests, a transformed Viking Crown Lounge and the popular Royal Babies and Tots Nursery.

New offerings for guests include ship-wide Wi-Fi, a digital way finding system, electronic mustering, an outdoor movie screen, as well as iPads in every stateroom featuring content about the ship’s onboard features and activities, ensuring a seamless cruise experience for guests. The ship’s Centrum, with its sweeping views and central location, will transform into a new venue featuring daytime activities, nightly entertainment and jaw-dropping aerial spectacles. The ship’s Champagne Bar, located in the Centrum, will also re-emerge as the R Bar, complete with iconic furnishing and signature cocktails mixed by a mixologist.

When the enhancements are completed on 28 March, Rhapsody of the Seas will sail a 15-night itinerary from Singapore to Sydney (Australia). From there, the ship will sail across the Pacific with a combination of cruises from Australia and Hawaii, before beginning an Alaska season in May 2012.

In Alaska, Rhapsody of the Seas will offer seven-night itineraries from both Vancouver (British Columbia), and Seattle (Washington) joining Radiance of the Seas, which was refurbished in May 2011.