Norwegian Cruise Line has taken delivery of its 20th ship, Norwegian Aqua, from the Fincantieri shipyard and has celebrated a milestone for Norwegian Luna.
The Norwegian Aqua is the first in the next-generation Prima Plus Class of the award-winning cruise line and Travel Weekly will be onboards its inaugural sailing which we will bring to you in the coming days.
As Norwegian Aqua prepares to enter service, NCL completes 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. The ship is set to move to the floating dock, previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua, for interior construction and furnishing in preparation for its launch in April 2026.
“Norwegian Aqua is more than just a ship – it’s a commitment to our guests that we will continue to push boundaries and deliver MORE at sea,” Norwegian Cruise Line president, David J. Herrera, said. “From thrilling attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster to the debut of Sukhothai, our first Thai specialty restaurant, Norwegian Aqua is designed to create unforgettable moments while cruising to the Caribbean, Bermuda and our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, where we remain focused and excited about investing in the guest experience.
“We are deeply grateful to Fincantieri for its partnership and expertise in bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, paving the way for NCL’s continued growth and success. And with Norwegian Luna’s float out, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter of our fleet expansion.”
Building on the legacy of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua is 10 per cent larger in size and capacity, offering more wide-open space, thoughtful art and design, service that puts guests first and unmatched guest experiences. Norwegian Aqua introduces fresh features that exemplify NCL’s commitment to delivering MORE – more thrills, more dining, and more immersive activities – while ensuring unparalleled service through the highest staffing levels of any new contemporary cruise ship.
Norwegian Aqua is a testament to NCL’s innovation, seamlessly blending hallmark Prima Class features–spacious staterooms, experiences beyond expectations and world-class entertainment – with exciting new enhancements. Measuring 322m in length and 156,300 gross tonnes, the ship accommodates 3,571 guests at double occupancy and boasts expansive outdoor spaces, ensuring a deeper connection to the ocean.
Onboard innovations
Guests can enjoy a diverse array of industry- and brand-first experiences aboard the ship. One of the standout debuts is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first fusion between a rollercoaster and waterslide delivering exhilarating twists and breathtaking views. Another is 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 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 guests with more ways to make the most of their time at sea with fun games available during the day, before transitioning into a nightclub at night.
Food lovers 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 highly rated Indulge Food Hall now also features Planterie, a new eatery serving plant-based bowls and healthy options for lunch and dinner.
At night, guests can enjoy world-class entertainment with headlining productions including ‘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’s highest-rated show, “Elements”, blends acrobatics, magic, and intrigue, drawing inspiration from the four elements earth, air, water, and fire for a breathtaking theatrical spectacle.
“Norwegian Aqua is a testament to the solid and enduring partnership between Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri, recently reaffirmed by the historic order of the four largest ships ever built by our Group for the brand,” Fincantieri general manager merchant ships division, Luigi Matarazzo, said. “This ship embodies our shared commitment to technological innovation and excellence, marking another milestone in a thriving cruise industry where Fincantieri continues to lead the way. We are honored to bring yet another ground-breaking vessel to life and look forward to continuing our partnership with all the exciting projects to come.”
Norwegian Aqua’s first sailings
After showcasing her innovations during a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua embarks on a transatlantic journey from Southampton, United Kingdom, on 28 March 2025. She marks her much-anticipated arrival to the US on 4 April 2025, for two inaugural events in Boston and New York City. On 13 April 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 unforgettable portrayal of Cameron Tucker in Modern Family.
During her first year of service, Norwegian Aqua sails from Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, as well as New York City. Departing from Florida ports, Norwegian Aqua offers short voyages to the Bahamas as well as seven-day Caribbean itineraries, visiting sun-drenched destinations such as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; as well as Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island paradise in the Bahamas, celebrated for its pristine beaches and exclusive experiences. In late 2025, the island becomes even more accessible to guests with the addition of a new pier.
Sailing from New York City in August and September 2025, Norwegian Aqua offers Bermuda cruises during the peak summer season. During her five- to seven-day Bermuda itineraries, guests can enjoy convenient overnight stays, allowing more time to explore the island’s world-class golf courses, vibrant culture, and famous underground caves, all just a short voyage from the U.S. East Coast.
