French Kiss, East Fusion & Tokyo Bar – AIDA Cruises – AIDAdiva
Submitted by: Dan Lockyer
Lead Designer: Franz Wolf
Studio: Partner Ship Design
Outfitter: SMS group
Shipyard: Chantier Naval Shipyard, Marseille
Completion Date: 22/03/2025
The first quarter of 2025 represented an exciting moment for SMS Group, joining over 170 different outfitting companies at the renowned Chantier Naval shipyard in Marseille, France. Billed as the largest modernisation program for AIDA Cruises in the company’s history, AIDAdiva represented the first of three contracted vessels for the SMS marine outfitting division to contribute their expertise to the cruise brands ‘Evolution’ program.
Proudly responsible for re-imagining the existing Bella Vista Restaurant to several of the brands new signature speciality dining venues, French Kiss, East Fusion, and Tokyo Bar, represented a watershed moment for SMS Group in terms of contract value and outfitting complexity. Joined by over 80 skilled personnel from our trusted network of partners and suppliers, including joiners, decorators, plumbers, tilers, upholsterers, and lighting designers to specialist technicians representing galley, HVAC, piping and electrical.
Requiring the complete strip out and rebuild of the existing buffet restaurant; works included new catering and service counter lines, waiter stations, and hand wash stations to fulfil USPH compliance. The space was enhanced by reconfigured HVAC and fire prevention systems, successfully acquiring class (DNV) approval, together with the adoption of IMO fire-rated products throughout the space. Feature deck heads included joinery and plaster works, whereas flooring included 500m² of striking and intricate tiling throughout the venue. The new venue also benefited from a full electrical cabling upgrade of lighting systems and newly installed decorative lighting.
A project of this scale required significant resilience and collaboration from everyone involved, including project management, technical coordination, and logistical support. The shared determination and healthy respect between the SMS Group and Carnival Maritime teams ensured guests and crew are now enjoying these exciting, re-energised and best-of-class venues aboard AIDAdiva.