Sarah Bretz, ContributorNorwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship Norwegian Aqua has officially welcomed its first guests in Europe. The ship is hosting over 2,000 invited guests to experience the vessel and its many offerings, embarking on a voyage from Lisbon to Southampton.
This is the first of a five-part inaugural series, which will conclude in Miami. The official christening voyage will take place next month. As the first ship in the Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua builds on the legacy of the Prima Class.
“This is a milestone moment for Norwegian Cruise Line as we set sail aboard Norwegian Aqua, a ship designed to offer our guests MORE – more wide-open space, more thrills, more culinary experiences, and more immersive entertainment,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “During this inaugural season, we look forward to welcoming our travel partners from around the world and to give them the exclusivity of being the first to experience our newest product and to fully understand how guests can ‘Experience More at Sea’ with us.”
One highlight of Norwegian Aqua is the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster — a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide. Passengers can also enjoy the cutting-edge Glow Court, a digital sports complex featuring an interactive LED floor that adapts for different games throughout the day and transforms to a club at night. The Aqua Game Zone reimagines NCL’s Galaxy Pavilion, offering a mix of retro arcade games, virtual reality challenges, and interactive gaming experiences.
Entertainment aboard Norwegian Aqua includes “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” and “Elements: The World Expanded,” which is an enhanced version of NCL’s top-rated “Elements” show.
Among the ship’s 17 new and returning restaurants is Sukhothai, Norwegian Cruise Line’s first Thai specialty restaurant, and Planterie, the line’s debut plant-based eatery at Indulge Food Hall.
Following her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic cruise to Miami, where she will be christened on April 13th by actor Eric Stonestreet, who is serving as the vessel’s godfather. Aqua will then homeport in Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York City, offering Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda cruises until March 2027.
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Are you planning to sail Norwegian Aqua or one of the original Prima-class ships (Norwegian Prima and Viva) this year? What aspect of Norwegian Aqua is most exciting to you? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!
