Norwegian Aqua: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Newest Cruise Ship Making Waves

Norwegian Aqua is Norwegian Cruise Line’s brand-new flagship, launched in 2025 as the latest evolution of NCL’s innovative Prima Class. This state-of-the-art vessel is around 10% larger than its popular sisters Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, packed with groundbreaking features and amenities that promise guests “MORE” of everything they love at sea. From adrenaline-pumping attractions to world-class dining and entertainment, Norwegian Aqua is making a splash as the 20th ship in NCL’s fleet  and a true game-changer for cruise fans.

Norwegian Aqua Ship Overview: Size, Class & Capacity

Norwegian Aqua is a truly impressive ship by the numbers. Built by Fincantieri in Italy and debuting in March 2025, she represents the first vessel of the new Prima Plus Class, building on the award-winning Prima Class design. Here are some key facts about Norwegian Aqua’s size and capacity:

• Gross Tonnage: Approx. 156,300 GT, making her one of NCL’s largest ships .

• Length & Beam: About 322 meters long (1,056 ft) with a 44 m (144 ft) beam, providing expansive deck space.

• Guest Capacity: Accommodates ~3,571 guests at double occupancy (up to 4,224 total), attended by 1,388 crew for superior service.

• Decks: 20 decks tall (with 9 decks of staterooms) offering plenty of venues to explore.

• Construction Cost: Approximately $850 million USD to build  – a testament to the ship’s cutting-edge features and luxury touches

• Norwegian Aqua’s hull is emblazoned with vibrant artwork titled “Where the Sky Meets the Sea”, created by artist Allison Hueman. This colorful mural wraps the ship in imaginative depictions of sea and sky, perfectly fitting for a vessel that’s inspiring a “new wave” of cruising. Everything about Aqua, from its build to its design, signals NCL’s commitment to innovation and guest experience.

Thrilling Attractions & Innovative Features

If you’re seeking thrills at sea, Norwegian Aqua delivers in a big way. The ship is brimming with first-of-their-kind attractions that will delight adrenaline junkies, families, and fun-seekers of all ages:

• Aqua Slidecoaster: Perhaps the most talked-about feature, this is the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea . **

** The Aqua Slidecoaster twists across three decks, offering two different exhilarating ride courses with a high-speed launch that propels riders through dips and turns . It’s both the longest and fastest slide at sea, and its dual side-by-side tubes let guests race or try two unique experiences. This spectacular top-deck attraction has already become a viral sensation on social media, and is truly the star of Norwegian Aqua’s outdoor fun.

• The Rush & The Drop Slides: In addition to the Slidecoaster, Aqua features dual dry slides known as The Rush and a 10-story freefall slide called The Drop . These heart-pounding slides send the bold plunging down multiple decks – perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a quick adrenaline fix!

• Glow Court Sports Zone: Aqua debuts Glow Court, a next-generation digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor  . By day, you can play soccer, basketball and more on a court that adapts with cool visuals; by night, the venue transforms into a neon-lit nightclub dance floor . It’s a sporty space that literally glows and changes, offering active fun and nighttime vibes in one place.

• Aqua Game Zone & High-Tech Play: The ship reimagines NCL’s popular Galaxy Pavilion as the expanded Aqua Game Zone – an indoor virtual reality and arcade gaming complex. It boasts 14 different attractions, including new VR simulators, two Escape Rooms, and retro arcade classics like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. Uniquely, Aqua also introduces the fleet’s first Topgolf Swing Suite, a golf simulator lounge where guests can play virtual courses and interactive games powered by pro-level Full Swing technology. For friendly competition, head to The Bull’s Eye digital darts bar with auto-scoring and instant replays, or enjoy the interactive Tee Time mini-golf course, now a two-level, 12-hole course that’s 2.5× bigger than those on Prima-class ships!

• The Stadium & Outdoor Fun: Norwegian Aqua ensures there’s no shortage of outdoor activities. At The Stadium – an open-air games area – you’ll find free activities like tabletop shuffleboard, pickleball, subsoccer and even beer pong tables. Whether you’re scoring goals or just spectating, it’s a hub of casual fun. Meanwhile, an expanded pool deck offers plenty of space to soak up the sun, complete with day beds and lounge spots perfect for those warm Caribbean days .

• Infinity Beach & Pool Areas: Like her sister ships, Aqua features the stunning Infinity Beach concept – oceanfront deck zones where infinity-edge pools let you float while gazing out at the sea. There are multiple pools and hot tubs onboard, including Vibe Beach Club’s infinity hot tubs for adults. The Vibe Beach Club is an adults-only retreat that’s now even more spacious, with luxurious loungers and private cabanas overlooking the water. Whether you want to party on the pool deck or find serenity in a secluded hot tub, Aqua has you covered.

• Spa & Wellness: For relaxation, the Mandara Spa & Salon on Aqua is redesigned and enlarged to be more indulgent than ever . Imagine two-story waterfall displays and a grand marble staircase welcoming you to the spa! The Thermal Suite has doubled the number of heated lounge chairs and added new experiences like a salt therapy pool, charcoal sauna, and an ice room – all with panoramic ocean views . There’s even cutting-edge wellness offerings such as a clay sauna and IV therapy services in the spa. Adjacent, the Pulse Fitness Center has been expanded with separate studios for yoga, Pilates, and cycling classes , so you can keep up with fitness at sea.

In short, Norwegian Aqua is bursting with activities from bow to aft. Whether you’re an adrenaline addict ready to race down slides, a gamer looking for the latest VR fun, or just someone who loves lounging by the pool, this ship offers something for every mood and age group.

Dining Delights: 17 Restaurants and 18 Bars

When it comes to dining and drinks, Norwegian Aqua truly spoils you with choices. There are 17 different dining options onboard and 18 bars and lounges – so you’ll never run out of new flavors to try or venues to unwind in . NCL has brought back all the guest-favorite restaurants and introduced some exciting new venues on Aqua:

Sukhothai – Thai Specialty Restaurant: Norwegian Aqua debuts Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant, which promises a rich culinary journey through Thailand’s vibrant flavors . From aromatic curries to fresh Thai street-food inspired dishes, Sukhothai offers authentic cuisine in an elegant modern setting . This is a brand-new concept for NCL and a must-try for foodies aboard Aqua.

Planterie – Plant-Based Eatery: Another new addition is Planterie, the line’s first dedicated plant-based eatery, located within the Indulge Food Hall . Here, health-conscious and vegetarian/vegan travelers can enjoy creative plant-forward dishes in a casual market-style atmosphere. It’s part of NCL’s effort to cater to all dietary lifestyles without compromising on taste.

Norwegian Cruiseline Speciality Dining Returning Favorites: Of course, Aqua also features NCL’s signature dining venues that past guests know and love. Craving a perfect steak? Head to Cagney’s Steakhouse. In the mood for elegant French cuisine? Le Bistro awaits. You’ll also find the Japanese hibachi experience at Hasuki (now with an enlarged space on Aqua ), fresh seafood at Ocean Blue or Palomar, Italian classics at Onda by Scarpetta, and the casual pub fare of The Local Bar & Grill. Indulge Food Hall – first introduced on Prima – returns as a foodie paradise with various international eateries in one venue, including the new Planterie as mentioned. With 17 restaurants, every night of a week-long cruise you could dine somewhere different and still have more to try!

Bars and Nightlife: The 18 bars and lounges on Norwegian Aqua range from relaxing to rousing. Notably, the ship features a redesigned Metropolitan Bar, a sustainability-focused cocktail bar that now boasts a grand piano for live entertainment in the evenings . It’s the perfect spot for a craft cocktail and some piano tunes. There’s also the Belvedere Bar serving crafted bottled cocktails , the Whiskey Bar for spirit aficionados, and the ever-popular Sugarcane Mojito Bar (a staple on NCL ships) for refreshing rum concoctions. Beer lovers can hang out at The Local or the observation lounge bar, and wine connoisseurs have options like the upscale winery bar. Whether you’re grabbing a frozen drink by the pool or sipping a nightcap in a swanky lounge, Aqua’s bars ensure you’ll never go thirsty. 🍹

From specialty dining to 24/7 eats, every palate will find joy on Norwegian Aqua. Be sure to make reservations early for the specialty restaurants – with so many people eager to taste the new venues like Sukhothai, spots will fill up quickly!

World-Class Entertainment Onboard

Entertainment is another area where Norwegian Aqua shines. NCL is known for Broadway-caliber shows and vibrant nightlife, and this ship is raising the curtain on spectacular new productions and interactive experiences:

• “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” – Exclusive to Norwegian Aqua is this brand-new theatrical concert paying tribute to the music icon Prince  . Created in collaboration with top industry talent, Revolution is an immersive show featuring Prince’s greatest hits, high-energy performances, and stunning visuals. It’s a one-of-a-kind at-sea concert that’s sure to have the theater rocking to classics like “Purple Rain” and “1999.”

• “Elements: The World Expanded” – Aqua presents an enhanced version of NCL’s acclaimed Elements show . This production fuses mesmerizing acrobatics, magic, and dance with state-of-the-art visuals inspired by Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. It’s Elements as you’ve never seen it before – bigger, bolder, and tailored for the new high-tech theater on Aqua. Prepare to be wowed by performers seemingly bending the elements on stage!

• Interactive Game Shows – Get ready to be part of the show! Norwegian Aqua’s cruise director staff, in partnership with TV production company Fremantle, will host live game show experiences where guests can participate and win prizes . Ever wanted to “Come on down!” on The Price is Right LIVE? Here’s your chance. Other interactive shows include adaptations of Press Your Luck, Beat the Clock, and more  . These lively games bring tons of laughs and audience engagement – you might find yourself on stage spinning a wheel or racing through a supermarket sweep simulation.

• Music & Nightlife: Beyond the main theater, Norwegian Aqua turns up the volume across the ship. The Aqua Theater & Club is a three-deck high venue that doubles as a nightclub called Sensoria after hours . During the day it can host enrichment talks or bingo, but at night it becomes a Vegas-style club with a huge moving LED screen and dance floor – perfect for late-night revelry. Live bands and DJs will keep music flowing. Plus, with the addition of the piano at Metropolitan Bar and likely live music in other lounges, there’s always entertainment around every corner. From comedy shows at the smaller club venues to karaoke nights, Aqua has a full slate of activities to keep you entertained each evening.

Whether you’re a theater lover, a music fan, or someone who enjoys interactive fun, Norwegian Aqua’s entertainment lineup has something for everyone. It’s truly “beyond expectation,” keeping guests dazzled every night of the cruise.

The Haven & Stateroom Accommodations

For those seeking luxury accommodations, Norwegian Aqua offers NCL’s exclusive The Haven – a “ship-within-a-ship” enclave of suites and private amenities. The Haven on Aqua has been taken to new heights with an even larger and more lavish setup:

All-New Haven Duplex Suites: A highlight is the introduction of an ultra-spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom Haven Duplex Suite . These two-story loft-style suites are a first for NCL, giving families or groups a truly grand residence at sea. Imagine a stylish living area, multiple bedrooms, a large balcony, and access to all the perks of The Haven. It’s like your personal upscale apartment on the ship!

Private Haven Amenities: Guests staying in The Haven enjoy an array of exclusive amenities – a private infinity pool and sundeck, dedicated restaurant and lounge, concierge and butler service, and priority access around the ship. On Aqua, the Haven’s courtyard and sundeck are described as breathtaking, with plenty of space to relax away from the crowds . If you value privacy and top-notch service, The Haven is the place to be.

Variety of Staterooms: Outside of The Haven, Norwegian Aqua offers more accommodation choices than ever before. There are Balcony and Oceanview staterooms for those who want splendid views, Club Balcony Suites for a bit more space and luxury, and even Studio cabins for solo travelers (with access to a private Studio Lounge) . Families can opt for specific Family Suites or interconnecting rooms. Every stateroom is designed in a contemporary style with comfort in mind. Thanks to Aqua’s increased size, NCL was able to add extra suites and more spacious layouts, so guests can truly feel at home at sea.

No matter your budget or travel style, you’ll find a cozy home on Norwegian Aqua – from solo rooms to sprawling suites. And everywhere you stay, NCL’s renowned housekeeping and guest services are there to ensure you’re well taken care of.

Itinerary Highlights: Where Will Norwegian Aqua Sail?

Norwegian Aqua is now ready to whisk everyday travelers off on amazing vacations. The ship’s initial itineraries focus on sunny escapes in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda, with a mix of homeports to choose from:

Spring & Summer 2025 – Caribbean from Florida: After her christening, Aqua kicks off service with a series of seven-day Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida . These run April 2025 through July 2025, giving guests a chance to explore tropical ports like the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands. Many of these cruises include a stop at NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas – where you can enjoy beaches, snorkeling, and an exclusive island vibe. (Great Stirrup Cay is even adding a new multi-ship pier by late 2025 to accommodate ships like Aqua more easily !)

Late Summer 2025 – Bermuda from New York: In August 2025, Norwegian Aqua will head north to homeport in New York City for the first time. From the Big Apple, she’ll offer five and seven-day roundtrip cruises to Bermuda through October 2025 . These itineraries typically feature several days in Bermuda, allowing passengers to enjoy the island’s famous pink-sand beaches (like Horseshoe Bay) and historic sites. Sailing from Manhattan, you get the dramatic sail-away past the Statue of Liberty before enjoying Aqua’s onboard delights on the way to Bermuda’s paradise.

Fall 2025 & Winter 2025-2026 – Bahamas & Eastern Caribbean from Miami: As the weather cools, Aqua will reposition to Miami, Florida (the “Cruise Capital of the World”) to run various Eastern Caribbean voyages. Starting October 2025 and through spring 2026, she’ll sail five and seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami . Ports of call include favorites like Nassau and St. Thomas, and nearly all these cruises visit NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay as a highlight stop . Imagine yourself zip-lining or kayaking at the private island during the day, then coming back on board for a gourmet dinner and Broadway-style show at night – that’s the kind of combo Aqua delivers!

Looking further ahead, Norwegian Aqua is scheduled to continue offering warm-weather getaways well into 2026 (and even beyond, as schedules extend). NCL has positioned this ship in highly popular regions so that travelers from various parts of the U.S. can easily embark – whether from Florida or New York – and experience Norwegian Aqua’s magic at sea. Keep an eye out for special holiday cruises, too, as new ships often do something extra fun for occasions like New Year’s or Christmas.

With such a diverse lineup of itineraries, there’s an adventure for every cruiser on Norwegian Aqua. Whether you crave the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas or the culture and charm of Bermuda, you can likely find a sailing that fits your vacation dreams.

Plan Your Norwegian Aqua Adventure

Ready to set sail on Norwegian Aqua? Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to enjoy this incredible new ship. Nice Afts is here to help you make it happen – reach out to us today to plan your next cruise adventure! We’ll handle all the details, from finding you the perfect Aqua itinerary to securing the best cabins and perks. All you have to do is pack your bags and get ready to “Experience MORE at Sea,” as NCL promises .

🌊 Contact Nice Afts now to turn your Norwegian Aqua dreams into reality. Let’s get you on board for the voyage of a lifetime! 🚢✨