On April 7, 2025, NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest vessel, Norwegian Aqua, arrived in New York City for a 2-day preview event. The vessel will return to the USA in August 2025 to commence a series of sailings to Bermuda.
As the first ship in NCL's Prima Plus class, Norwegian Aqua introduces several design and amenity enhancements over her predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. The ship is approximately 10% larger in volume/GT/gross tonnage and passenger capacity and incorporates new features aimed at both leisure and active travelers.
Notable onboard developments include the Aqua Slidecoaster, a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide constructed across three decks. This dual-slide attraction, the first of its kind at sea, offers two distinct course experiences and features a high-speed propulsion launch system. The ship also debuts Glow Court, a multi-use digital sports venue with an interactive LED floor that transitions into a nightlife venue after dark.
Public areas aboard Norwegian Aqua have been expanded and diversified. Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only outdoor lounge, now includes cabanas and extended oceanfront lounging space. Families and recreational travelers will find activity spaces such as The Stadium, The Drop—a ten-deck dry slide—and the updated Aqua Game Zone, featuring both virtual and classic arcade-style games. A dedicated spa and wellness area, Mandara Spa, offers thermal suites and full-service treatments.
Dining and entertainment options have also been broadened. The vessel houses 17 dining venues and 18 bars and lounges, including a redesigned Metropolitan Bar with integrated live piano performances. Scheduled entertainment includes a stage production titled Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, as well as Elements: The World Expanded, an updated theatrical presentation combining visual and acrobatic performances. Game show-style experiences such as The Price is Right LIVE are also part of the ship's lineup.
Following her christening ceremony in Miami on April 13, 2025—where actor Eric Stonestreet will serve as godfather—Norwegian Aqua will operate week-long itineraries in the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida, through July 2025. The vessel will then reposition to New York City for a Bermuda deployment from August through October 2025, followed by Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami beginning in October 2025 and continuing through April 2026. These sailings include scheduled calls to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island, where a multi-ship pier is expected to be operational by late 2025.
Guests sailing aboard Norwegian Aqua will have access to the line’s recently introduced More At Sea program, which offers bundled amenities such as premium beverage packages, specialty dining credits, high-speed internet access, shore excursion credits, and promotional airfare and family offers on select voyages.