Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the 20th ship in its fleet and the first in the next-generation Prima Plus Class, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.
As Norwegian Aqua prepares to enter service, NCL has completed another landmark event with the float out of Norwegian Luna. The float out signifies the completion of the ship’s external work 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 furnishing in preparation for the ship’s launch in spring 2026.
Building on the legacy of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua is 10 percent larger in size and capacity. Measuring 1,056 feet in length and 156,300 gross tons, Norwegian Aqua accommodates 3,571 guests at double occupancy and boasts expansive outdoor spaces.
Guests will enjoy a diverse array of industry- and brand-first experiences aboard the ship. One of the ship’s standout debuts is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first fusion between a rollercoaster and a waterslide. The Aqua Game Zone, an interactive entertainment space filled with immersive games and challenges, from retro arcade games such as Ms. Pacman, Donkey Kong and Mario Bros. to virtual reality games and so much more, offers fun for guests of all ages to enjoy together. Additionally, NCL’s first Glow Court, a high-tech, digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, offers fun games during the day, before transitioning into a club at night.
Foodies can indulge in a mix of brand-new and signature dining experiences, including the debuting specialty dining venue Sukhothai, as well as guest favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. Moreover, the Indulge Food Hall will be home to Planterie, a new eatery serving plant-based bowls and healthy options for lunch and dinner. At night, guests can enjoy such productions as “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” an immersive tribute show developed in partnership with Prince Legacy, LLC and Primary Wave Music. It delivers a theatrical concert-like experience featuring the icon’s chart-topping hits. Additionally, "Elements: The World Expanded," an enhanced version of NCL show, "Elements," blends acrobatics, magic and intrigue, drawing inspiration from the four elements (earth, air, water and fire) for a theatrical spectacle.
After a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey from Southampton, U.K., on March 28. It will mark its much-anticipated arrival to the U.S. on April 4 for two inaugural events in Boston and New York City. On April 13, 2025, the ship will be officially christened in Miami in a celebratory 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 its first year of service, Norwegian Aqua will sail from Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL, as well as New York City. Departing from Florida ports, Norwegian Aqua will offer short voyages to the Bahamas as well as seven-day Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations such as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; as well as Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island paradise in the Bahamas. In late 2025, the island will become even more accessible to guests with the addition of a new pier.
Sailing from New York City in August and September 2025, Norwegian Aqua will offer Bermuda cruises during the peak summer season. During its five- to seven-day Bermuda itineraries, guests will enjoy overnight stays, allowing more time to explore the island’s golf courses, vibrant culture and famous underground caves.
For more information, visit www.ncl.com.
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