The ship entered dry dock at the weekend in Cadiz ahead of an eight-week makeover, which will introduce three new venues as well as a Champneys spa.

Explorer 2 is scheduled to depart Cadiz on March 2 ahead of its first customer sailing around the Mediterranean from Palma, Majorca, on April 2.

In total, 1,520 people will set to work on the ship over 190,000 man hours to deliver the multi-million pound makeover, the line has revealed.

Refurbishments include 43km of new carpet, 70km of network cabling and the addition of 640 Wi-Fi access points.

In addition, 9.5 tons of Marella-branded items including new uniforms and show team costumes, as well as other materials, are en route to the dock.

Explorer 2 is Marella’s second explorer-class vessel. It has capacity for 1,814 passengers across 907 double-occupancy cabins, nearly 40% of which have balconies.

New venues include clubhouse bar the 19th Hole, which will feature golf buggy seating and two simulators and serve golf-themed cocktails and craft beers.

Bubbles bar Flutes will cater for prosecco and champagne lovers; Nonna’s will serve traditional Italian fare; and The Beach Cove barbecue-inspired food with an alfresco dining feel.

The works will also add a Champneys spa featuring a full-service thermal suite and offering exclusive treatments.