Norwegian Aqua makes her grand debut with a maiden voyage to Europe

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the world leader in innovative cruise travel, has welcomed the first guests aboard the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua on her maiden voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England.

Marking a new chapter in the evolution of NCL's fleet, Norwegian Aqua welcomes more than 2,000 guests onboard to learn how the brand delivers MORE with its latest innovations and offerings. This is the first in a five-part inaugural series, concluding in Miami with the official christening voyage in April.   

As the first ship in the cutting-edge Prima Plus class, Norwegian Aqua builds on the legacy of the award-winning Prima class and introduces innovative experiences that allow guests to enjoy MORE of what they love about cruising with NCL. When guests step aboard this exclusive inaugural voyage, they will be among the first to experience the ship's industry-leading attractions and amenities. To celebrate the occasion, NCL is releasing a first look at its 20th ship, showcasing its luxurious design and key innovations.

“This is a historic moment for Norwegian Cruise Line as we set sail aboard Norwegian Aqua, a ship designed to offer our guests MORE: more 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 associates from around the world and offering them the exclusivity of being the first to experience our newest product and fully understand how guests can ‘Enjoy More at Sea’ with us.”

Norwegian Aqua brings to life a series of brand-exclusive and industry-firsts  designed to elevate the guest experience. Highlighting the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster, the world's first hybrid coaster and slide, offering two unique and exhilarating experiences as the longest and fastest slides at sea. Guests will also enjoy the cutting-edge Glow Court, a state-of-the-art digital sports court with an interactive LED floor that seamlessly adapts to different games during the day and transforms into a nightclub at night. Additionally, the Aqua Game Zone reimagines NCL's beloved Galaxy Pavilion, offering entertainment for all ages with a mix of retro arcade games, immersive virtual reality challenges, and interactive gaming experiences.

There will be no shortage of onboard entertainment with Norwegian Aqua's programming, featuring world-class productions created in collaboration with the industry's top talent. "Revolution: A Celebration of Prince" headlines the lineup, offering an immersive theatrical concert experience that pays tribute to the legendary artist's greatest hits. Guests will also enjoy "Elements: The World Expanded," an enhanced version of NCL's most popular show, combining acrobatics, magic, and stunning visual effects inspired by the four elements.

Additionally, guests can experience culinary adventures at 17 new and existing guest-favorite restaurants, as well as 18 bars and lounges. New culinary experiences onboard Norwegian Aqua include Sukhothai, NCL's first specialty Thai restaurant offering a rich culinary journey inspired by vibrant Thai cuisine in a stylish, modern setting, and Planterie, the brand's first plant-based restaurant in the Indulge Food Hall.

Following her maiden voyage, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey to the United States, where she will be officially christened in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Emmy® Award-winning actor ^Eric Stonestreet as her sponsor. She will then dock in Miami, the cruise capital of the world, and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, as well as New York City, offering tailor-made itineraries to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda for every type of traveler through March 2027.

For guests planning their next cruise vacation aboard Norwegian Aqua or any ship in the NCL fleet, the company's newest program, More At Sea™, offers guests more value with an unlimited open bar featuring premium brand beverages like Casamigos Tequila, Woodford Reserve, Grey Goose Vodka, and more; as well as specialty restaurants; high-speed Wi-Fi minutes; and $50 USD shore excursion credits in every port of call. More At Sea™ offers guests incredible value, saving over 75%.

Fuente: Norwegian Cruise Line.