Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken delivery of its newest vessel, Norwegian Aqua, at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera, Italy. The ship represents a milestone as the first in NCL’s next-generation Prima Plus Class and the 20th vessel in their fleet.
The Norwegian Aqua, measuring 1,056 feet in length and 156,300 gross tons, can accommodate 3,571 guests at double occupancy. The vessel showcases NCL’s commitment to innovation with several features, including the world’s first Aqua Slidecoaster, which uniquely combines a rollercoaster with a waterslide.
Among its distinctive offerings, the ship introduces Sukhothai, NCL’s first Thai specialty restaurant, alongside established favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. Entertainment options include “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” developed in partnership with Prince Legacy, LLC and Primary Wave Music, and an enhanced version of NCL’s popular show “Elements: The World Expanded”.
The delivery celebration coincides with another milestone as Norwegian Luna achieves its float out, marking the completion of its external construction. The Luna will now move to the floating dock previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua to begin interior work, with its launch scheduled for spring 2026.
Norwegian Aqua’s inaugural journey will begin with European sailings, followed by a transatlantic voyage from Southampton, UK, on March 28, 2025. The ship will arrive in the U.S. on April 4, 2025, with inaugural events in Boston and New York City, culminating in its official christening in Miami on April 13, 2025. Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, known for his role in Modern Family, will serve as the ship’s godfather.
During its first year of service, Norwegian Aqua will operate from multiple U.S. ports, including Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York City, offering various itineraries to the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. The ship will feature stops at NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, which will become more accessible to guests with the addition of a new pier in late 2025.
