Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially welcomed its first guests aboard the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua, the first ship in the new Prima Plus Class. Departing from Lisbon, the vessel is embarking on a 5-part inaugural series before its official christening in Miami on April 13, 2025.
Prima Plus Ship
As NCL’s 20th ship, Norwegian Aqua builds on the success of the Prima Class, delivering expanded amenities, industry-first attractions and elevated onboard experiences. The ship is currently hosting more than 2,000 invited guests from its departure in Europe, offering a first look at its innovations, including:
- Aqua Slidecoaster – The world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, featuring the longest and fastest slides at sea.
- Glow Court – A next-generation digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor that transitions into a high-energy club at night.
- Aqua Game Zone is a reimagined entertainment space that blends retro arcade games, virtual reality challenges and interactive gaming.
Entertainment on board includes the exclusive production “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” a theatrical concert honoring the legendary artist’s music, and an enhanced version of NCL’s acclaimed “Elements: The World Expanded,” which blends acrobatics, magic and immersive visuals.
“This is a milestone moment for Norwegian Cruise Line as we set sail aboard Norwegian Aqua, a ship designed to offer our guests MORE—more wide-open space, more thrills, more culinary experiences and more immersive entertainment,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, in a media statement. “During this inaugural season, we look forward to welcoming our travel partners from around the world and to give them the exclusivity of being the first to experience our newest product and to fully understand how guests can ‘Experience More at Sea’ with us.”
Guests can also explore a diverse culinary landscape with 17 dining venues and 18 bars and lounges. New additions include Sukhothai, NCL’s first Thai specialty restaurant, and Planterie, the brand’s debut plant-based eatery at Indulge Food Hall.
Following its transatlantic voyage, Norwegian Aqua will sail Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries from Miami, Port Canaveral and New York City through March 2027. The ship also features NCL’s new More At Sea™ program, offering premium perks like unlimited open bar, specialty dining, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits.
For more information, visit ncl.com.