Carnival Spirit, one of Australia’s favourite family cruise ships after just two years, will get a host of new innovations when it goes into dry dock for a $44 million makeover next year.

The August refit will increase the number of bars and eateries aboard the 13-year-old vessel to 25 – including three with a distinctive Mexican flavour.

The Blue Iguana Cantina will serve tacos and burritos, while the neighboring Blue Iguana Tequila Bar will be serving up margaritas and Mexican beer, as well as the fiery spirit.

Sales of Mexican food have soared in Australia, according to Carnival Cruise Lines vice president Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke.

“Carnival Spirit is going to return to Australia jam-packed with delicious and fun features,” she said.

“With the Mexican food wave currently sweeping Australia, we can’t wait to treat our Aussie guests to an authentic cantina experience where the beer is always ice cold and the chill is jalpeno hot.”

Ms Vandekreeke said Carnival Spirit was not about to leap aboard the craze for celebrity chefs, because it was unashamedly a mid-market family brand.

That said, the refit will see Guy’s Burger Joint, led by Californian chef Guy Fieri, set up on the Spirit. Food from Guy’s and the Cantina are included.

A Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Rum Bar and a cocktail bar called Alchemy will add to the bars, while Bonsai Sushi and The Cherry on Top lolly shop will also feature.

Spirit will also see a new high-energy show Epic Rock and a unique interactive EA Sports Bar video games parlour.