TWO cruise ships, which come in and out of Southampton, are due to undergo a major refit in the coming months.

After years of setbacks and struggles Azamara Club Cruises, owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, has finally seen profit and its two ships, the Azamara Quest and the Azamara Journey, will be given a lick of paint from bow to stern.

Bosses promise that no area onboard will be left untouched, with the transformation covering all the staterooms and suites, dining areas, spa rooms and even the entertainment venues.

The two mid-size ships that can accommodate up to 686 guests each will be fitted with new venues, public spaces and technology to bring re-designed spaces and fresh services to guests.

The Daily Echo was given a tour around the Azamara Quest by the managing director for Azamara Club Cruises in UK and Ireland, Richard Twynam, before it set off on a voyage.

He showed how each part of the ship would be overhauled including how the Looking Glass lounge will be transformed “quite dramatically” and how the Prime C restaurant will look like a 1940’s style bar.

Tradesmen will begin work to update the Azamara Quest before it heads out the city for cruises around the world, with cabins updated too.

One of the restaurants on board, the Discovery, which can seat 320 people will also undergo extensive refurbishment.

He added: “Every single public space will be changed.”

The Azamara Journey will enter dry dock in January 2016 in the Bahamas, and the Azamara Quest in April 2016 in Singapore and for three weeks will be refurbished.

“The forward booking for 2016 are the best they’ve ever been,” Richard said after a few years of setbacks, including a fire in the engine rooms in 2012.

The firm has finally seen its first year of growth in the industry since they were first founded in 2007.

He added: “We’ve had some really tough moments but what’s been most exciting for me is the work that’s due to take place. It’s really exciting.

“We’re going to beat last year’s profits, I’m really proud of my team.”

While Azamara Club Cruises will continue it’s cruises to destination around the world, Richard added: “While our offerings for destination immersion have gone from strength to strength over the years, our ship upgrades signify a major investment by the brand to continue our commitment to enhancing guests’ experiences of holidaying with us.”