Sarah Bretz, ContributorNorwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship Norwegian Aqua has officially been christened during a ceremony in Miami. The line also revealed its plans to reimagine its private destination in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay.
The christening ceremony took place at Norwegian Cruise Line’s terminal at PortMiami and included a special appearance by Norwegian Aqua godfather and two-time Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet.
To kick off the ceremony, the over 2,000 guests in attendance were treated to a preview of NCL’s newest in-house production of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” the world’s first-ever theatrical concert experience honoring Prince. NCL president David J. Herrera followed the performance with a reveal and tease that something exciting is coming to Great Stirrup Cay.
The line is planning to expand the offerings at the private island, opening later this year simultaneously with the completion of the island’s multi-ship pier. Guests can look forward to an expansive area for guests to soak up the Bahamian sun with an oversized heated pool. The family hot-spot on the island will include a splash zone with water foundations and features for kids, as well as a swim-up bar for guests who want to take advantage of their drink package.
Visitors to the island will step ashore and be greeted by a welcome center and a new tram service that provides an easy and quick way to get around the island. Development plans also include extending guest-favorite onboard experiences to Great Stirrup Cay. The island will feature a new Vibe Beach Club, the adults-only outdoor lounge, as well as Horizon Park, the all-new recreation area that recently debuted on Norwegian Bliss and Breakaway that provides lawn-style games for the whole family. To continue the authentic Bahamian vibe the island is known for, a new relaxation area will come to life with hammocks and other tiki-inspired amenities and experiences yet to be revealed.
“It is a very special time for all of us at NCL – we are welcoming a new incredible ship into our fleet with the christening of the stunning and action-packed, Norwegian Aqua, and we are doing so alongside her godfather, Eric Stonestreet, who perfectly embodies the authenticity of what it means for our guests to ‘Experience More at Sea,'” said Herrera.
“In addition, we are unveiling that Great Stirrup Cay is getting even greater with MORE to do! Later this year we will launch new experiences for our guests to enjoy on this already incredible private island. And now with our newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, entering into the market with voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, it is the perfect time to start planning your next warm-weather vacation.”
The ceremony continued with remarks by Norwegian Aqua’s Captain, Robert Lundberg; Pastor Pete Pera of Rise Community Church who made the official blessing of the ship wishing safe travels for all who sail aboard; and John Chernesky, NCL’s Senior Vice President of North America Sales, who introduced Eric Stonestreet to the stage.
The christening event concluded with the ceremonial bottle break across the ship’s hull, which was initiated by Stonestreet and signifies good fortune and safe travels for all who sail aboard the ship.
Following her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will arrive to Port Canaveral for a season of seven-night eastern Caribbean sailings through August 2025. From August through October, the vessel will offer five and seven-night Bermuda cruises from New York City. From October through April, the ship will return to Miami for a season of seven-day eastern Caribbean voyages.
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