Sarah Bretz, ContributorNorwegian Cruise Line has officially taken delivery of its new upcoming ship Norwegian Aqua — the first vessel in its next-gen Prima Plus Class. The ship was handed over during a ceremony at Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.
NCL also celebrated another major milestone, as the following ship, Norwegian Luna, was floated out. The float out signifies the completion of external work on the ship, and marks the first time it makes contact with water. Norwegian Luna will move to the floating dock previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua for interior construction and furnishings. The vessel is scheduled to debut next spring.
Norwegian Aqua
Building on the foundation of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua is 10 percent larger in size and capacity. It comes in at 156,300 gross tons and can carry 3,571 guests at double occupancy. Aqua blends Prima class features such as the staterooms, experiences, and entertainment, but with new enhancements.
On Norwegian Aqua, guests will be able to enjoy a diverse variety of industry and brand-first experiences, including the Aqua Slidecoaster — a fusion between a rollercoaster and waterslide. There’s also the Aqua Game Zone, an interactive entertainment space filled with games and challenges. The Glow Court, a high-tech digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, plays host to fun games by day and a dance club at night.
Food lovers can indulge in a mix of new and signature dining experiences, including the debut of specialty dining venue Sukhothai. Guest favorites include Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. The popular Indulge Food Hall will feature the new Planterie — an eatery serving plant-based bowls and healthy options for lunch and dinner.
At night, guests can enjoy entertainment such as “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” and an enhanced version of NCL’s popular show “Elements” called “Elements: The World Expanded.”
Norwegian Aqua Itineraries
After operating a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey from Southampton, England on March 28th. She will arrive to the U.S. on April 4, 2025 for two inaugural events in Boston and New York City. On April 13th, the ship will be christened in Miami during a ceremony with NCL brand ambassador and Norwegian Aqua godfather Eric Stonestreet. The Emmy Award-winning actor is best known for his portrayal of Cameron Tucker in Modern Family.
During her first year of service, Norwegian Aqua will sail from Miami and Port Canaveral, as well as New York City. Departing from Florida, the ship will offer short Bahamas cruises as well as seven-day Caribbean itineraries to Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and NCL’s private island Great Stirrup Cay.
Sailing from New York City in August and September, Norwegian Aqua will offer Bermuda cruises during the peak summer season.
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