Norwegian Cruise Line Reveals Culinary Experiences to Debut on Norwegian Aqua

Norwegian Cruise Line reveals new culinary experiences set to debut on Norwegian Aqua, the first vessel of the expanded Prima Plus Class setting sail in April 2025.

This new ship will boast three brand-new onboard offerings. These include Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant; Swirl Wine Bar, a new, upscale wine bar; and Planterie, the cruise line’s first eatery offering a full plant-based menu.

“Discovering new flavors and dining experiences is such a memorable part of any vacation, especially when you share it with those who matter most to you,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Expanding on our award-winning food and beverage program, we’re looking forward to bringing new concepts to life aboard Norwegian Aqua, while continuing to deliver on the variety of available offerings and value that NCL delivers.”

Brand-New Culinary and Bar Experiences

Sukhothai

Making its debut on Norwegian Aqua is Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant. It will feature an eclectic menu with authentic, traditional offerings and dynamic flavors. Guests can enjoy a new spin on traditional staples, such as Thai Cashew Chicken, Salt and Pepper Prawns, Thai Grilled Steak Salad, and a variety of complementing curries.

With décor imagined by the London-based SMC Design firm, the upscale dining venue will boast a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary Thai design elements. When guests walk into Sukhothai on deck 17, they will be greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Design elements like bamboo and rice paper pendant lights, a striking geometric patterned floor, and colorful furniture will transport diners to the culturally rich country of Thailand.

Planterie

At the returning guest-favorite Indulge Food Hall, a new eatery, Planterie, will offer plant-based bowls and other healthy options. Located on deck eight, Planterie’s menu will include dishes such as the Southwest Bowl with smoked tempeh and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl filled with delicious, spiced vegetables, tabbouleh, and honey-roasted carrots.

Offering indoor and outdoor seating, Indulge Food Hall will boast a brand-new design by New York-based firm, Rockwell Group. It will feature 10 food stations drawing inspiration from international food marketplaces from around the world. Notable architectural features include deep wood accents, gold and metal furnishings, and warm yet colorful tones.

Swirl Wine Bar

Also premiering aboard Norwegian Aqua is Swirl Wine Bar. This contemporary wine lounge strikes the perfect balance between exclusivity and approachability for a unique, intimate experience tucked away on deck six between the popular Whiskey Bar and Hasuki, the hibachi-style restaurant.

The hidden enclave will feature a comprehensive wine-by-the-glass menu, and an extensive list of rare and premium vintages. Designed by the Miami-based Studio DADO firm, the venue’s architecture is inspired by the beauty and curvature of Antelope Canyon in Arizona. With warm color hues complemented by cascading horizontal lines and serene blue touches, it will create a perfectly inviting space for guests to unwind.

Elevated, Redesigned Venues

From new designs to expanded seating, Norwegian Aqua will feature enhanced versions of restaurants and lounges found on the Prima Class.

Commodore Room

One of the ship’s main complimentary dining rooms, the Commodore Room, will now feature a rustic yet luxurious design. Paying homage to the imaginative narrative of the captain’s room, the venue will transport guests to the past times of maritime sophistication. It will feature antique wood furnishings, leather banquettes, floors that mimic the lines of a pier, and incredible stone accents.   

Metropolitan

NCL’s modern Sail & Sustain cocktail bar, Metropolitan, will return aboard Norwegian Aqua with a distinct new design. Relocating from mid-ship to the aft of deck seven, the innovative bar will now feature a grand piano and a small entertainment space for guests to enjoy live music with their Sail & Sustain cocktails, biodynamic wines, and sustainably produced liquors.

Inspired by the art deco and mid-century modern areas of New York City, this intimate enclave will feature dark hues, eye-catching motifs, and fresh greenery.

Nami Sushi and Sashimi

Nama Sushi and Sashimi, which debuted on Prima and Viva, will now feature a fresh, lively design by Studio DADO. Introducing a new color palette, the space draws inspiration from the vibrant world of Manga art. Guests can expect a playful dining experience surrounded by bold colors of lime green and black.

Surfside Café 

Located on deck 17, Surfside Café will boast floor-to-ceiling windows, providing scenic views as guests enjoy the expansive buffet-style dining. This three-meal a day venue will showcase warm colors, sunset tones, and timeless color palettes.

Palomar

Next door, the Mediterranean seafood dining venue of the Prima Class, Palomar, will feature an elevated design. Natural materials, such as rope and wood accents complemented by pops of blue and dark purple, will adorn this venue.

Additional Enhancements

Aboard Norwegian Aqua, Whiskey Bar will relocate to deck six near the brand-new Swirl Wine Bar. Belvedere Bar will move to deck eight at the heart of the atrium. Additionally, Penrose Bar and Waves Pool Bar will feature new designs.

Venues such as The Local Bar & Grill (NCL’s 24-hour pub-style restaurant), Hasuki (a lively Japanese hibachi experience), and Cagney’s (NCL’s signature upscale American steakhouse) will be expanded to accommodate even more guests.

Returning Guest-Favorites

In addition to unveiling new food and beverage experiences and designs, guest-favorite restaurants will return to Norwegian Aqua. Hudson’s, main complimentary dining room offering 270⁰ of scenic views will return.

Returning specialty restaurants include Le Bistro, the high-end French restaurant inspired by the Palace of Versailles and Los Lobos, the contemporary, authentic Mexican dining venue with outdoor seating. Onda by Scarpetta, the upscale Italian restaurant, which also offers al fresco dining on Ocean Boulevard will return as well.

For a complete list of Norwegian Aqua’s culinary and beverage offerings, click here.

More on Norwegian Aqua

Set to be the 20^th ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, Norwegian Aqua will feature industry-and-brand-first experiences. Most notably is the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster.

Further, the ship will feature the Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, and NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.

Beginning April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day Caribbean itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, FL. These itineraries will visit the tropical islands of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas.

Following the ship’s Caribbean season, Norwegian Aqua will offer five and seven-day voyages to Bermuda from New York City. Then, she will sail five and seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami, beginning October 2025 through April 2026.

Comments

Are you happy to learn that Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed the new culinary experiences on Norwegian Aqua? Which of these venues are you most excited to try? Drop us an anchor below to share what you love about the food and drink options on NCL’s Prima Class.

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!