Norwegian Aqua will be christened by one of TV’s funniest actors, Eric Stonestreet, known for his unforgettable portrayal of Cameron Tucker on the hit television show “Modern Family.” The award-winning actor will serve as the godfather of Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, debuting in April 2025.
“We are very excited to officially welcome Eric Stonestreet to the NCL team!” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, in a press release statement. “We had an amazing time with Eric on one of our ships, and also got to spend some time with his charming family. Over the past couple of months, Eric has become a true friend of NCL. Eric’s authenticity, wit, charm and genuine desire to bring happiness to the masses embodies the role of godfather for Norwegian Aqua, as well as who we are and what we stand for as a company. We are honored to have Eric as the godfather of Norwegian Aqua!”
In addition to his role in “Modern Family,” Stonestreet has also appeared in such films as “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Identity Thief,” and has previously hosted Fox’s reality competition series “Domino Masters.” Currently, he can be seen in season two of “The Santa Clauses,” which streams on Disney+.
On April 13, 2025, at PortMiami, Stonestreet will lead the time-honored tradition of christening the vessel by breaking a champagne bottle across its bow, a classic maritime custom performed by the ship’s godparent. This act is meant to bring good fortune for the life of the vessel and all the passengers that may sail on her throughout her journeys.
“Traveling the world to meet new people and explore new places is something I love to do, and after recently experiencing what Norwegian has to offer, I can attest that Norwegian truly makes it easy to do more of what I enjoy while on vacation,” said Stonestreet. “I am honored to be named the godfather of Norwegian Aqua and to play my part in the journey of bringing this new ship to life. I am blown away by what’s in store for Norwegian Aqua and I cannot wait to take a ride on the Aqua Slidecoaster, indulge in some red curry at the all-new Sukhothai and most importantly create lifelong memories with my own family while on board this innovative new ship.”
After completing her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will depart on 7-day itineraries from Port Canaveral beginning on April 26, 2025. These Caribbean voyages include calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in The Bahamas, which will feature a brand-new pier in late 2025. Following the ship’s first cruise season, Norwegian Aqua will offer 5- and 7-day voyages to Bermuda from New York City from August 2025 through October 2025, and from May 2026 to October 2026. Norwegian Aqua will return to Miami to sail 5- and 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from October 2025 through April 2026 and from November 2026 to March 2027.
Eric Stonestreet is Pretty Fabulous, But Norwegian Aqua is No Wallflower
Norwegian Aqua, the first ship in NCL’s Prima Plus Class, will feature the Aqua Slidecoaster, a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide set to be the longest and fastest slide at sea; a new high-tech digital sports complex, the Glow Court, engineered for immersive play as well as the Aqua Game Zone, a reimagined version of the cruise line’s Galaxy Pavilion and arcade offerings. Additionally, Norwegian Aqua is home to NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex suites within The Haven by Norwegian, the line’s ship-within-a-ship space, with an expansive, dedicated sundeck; an infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; a private lounge and bar pouring rare spirits and vintages; and sweeping sea views available from every public space. Among this ship’s bars and restaurants are the new upscale Thai specialty restaurant, Sukhothai; the plant-based eatery in Indulge Food Hall, Planterie; and the contemporary wine lounge, Swirl Wine Bar.
Beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, the line will be offering the all-new package More at Sea, with an unlimited open bar featuring more premium beverage brands, more specialty dining credits and more WiFi minutes with faster, high-speed internet powered by Starlink. The package also includes $50 shore excursion credits with free airfare for the second guest and third and fourth guests sailing free on select cruises.
