The AIDAstella, a Sphinx-class ship from AIDA Cruises, offers guests a contemporary and casual cruise experience with a German-inspired atmosphere. Launched in 2013 and refurbished in 2018, this 2,200-passenger vessel blends Nordic-inspired design, diverse dining, and engaging activities, appealing to families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a comfortable journey.
The 662-person crew fosters a casual, welcoming atmosphere, with German as the primary language but English and Italian widely supported. The all-inclusive fare covers most dining, drinks, and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The Body & Soul Spa, spanning 2,602 square metres on Deck 14, features three complimentary saunas, a whirlpool, and treatments like massages, with sliding glass roofs and birch trees enhancing the Nordic aesthetic. Fitness classes, including yoga and Pilates, cater to active guests, while onboard shops provide luxury goods and souvenirs. The Kids Club and teen zones ensure family-friendly appeal, and high-speed Starlink internet keeps guests connected.
Guests aboard AIDAstella can anticipate a modern, carefree cruise with a focus on comfort and variety. The ship’s diverse dining, from hearty buffets to gourmet specialties, caters to all tastes, while its entertainment, including the Theatrium and family-friendly activities, engages all ages. Refurbished cabins, inclusive amenities, and a friendly crew create a relaxed experience. Whether enjoying a spa treatment, watching a show, or lounging on a balcony, guests will find a seamless blend of fun and relaxation tailored to their preferences.
Reception Areas: Bright and Inviting
The central Theatrium, a three-deck space combining an atrium and theatre with glass walls, accommodates guests with a light-filled, open design. Connecting to restaurants, bars, and public areas, it serves as the ship’s social hub. The 24-hour reception and guest services desks provide efficient support for excursion bookings and onboard queries. Pepper robots, introduced fleetwide in 2016, greet guests and offer guidance on dining and activities in English, German, and Italian, adding a tech-savvy touch to the relaxed environment.
Dining: Diverse and Inclusive
AIDAstella’s seven dining venues offer a range of culinary experiences, with three complimentary buffet restaurants and specialty options for a surcharge. The Markt Restaurant serves European specialities, from German dishes to Mediterranean flavours, in a market-style setting. Bella Vista Restaurant focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, while the Weite Welt Restaurant offers global cuisine. Specialty venues include Rossini for gourmet Italian cuisine, Buffalo Steakhouse for American-style grills, and East Restaurant for Asian dishes like sushi. The onboard Brauhaus brews beer from purified seawater, paired with hearty snacks. Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks are available during lunch and dinner at buffet restaurants.
Entertainment: Engaging and Family-Friendly
The Theatrium, with dynamic stage platforms and a glass dome, hosts nightly performances, including musicals, acrobatics, and comedy shows, creating a lively evening hub. Bars like the AIDA Bar, Anytime Bar, and Pier 3 Bar offer cocktails and live music, while the Brauhaus provides a casual setting for craft beer. The Sun Deck features three pools and loungers for daytime relaxation, with a nudist area available. Sports facilities include a jogging track, volleyball court, and fitness centre, while the Kids Club offers supervised activities for children aged 3 to 11. An art gallery sells original works, and active shore excursions like biking cater to adventure enthusiasts.
Accommodation: Functional and Comfortable
AIDAstella’s 1,097 staterooms, spread across 14 decks, include 374 inside cabins, 391 oceanview cabins, 505 balcony cabins, and 15 suites. Refurbished in 2018, cabins feature Nordic-inspired decor with brown, beige, and green hues, using eco-friendly carpeting. Inside cabins, at 14 square metres, use clever lighting for a spacious feel, while balcony cabins, ranging from 17 to 23 square metres, include hammocks. Suites, at 56 to 87 square metres, offer private sundecks and luxury bath products. All cabins include air conditioning, satellite TV, safes, hairdryers, bathrobes, and telephones, with suite guests enjoying concierge service and access to the AIDA Lounge.
