Norwegian Cruise Line invited a record 180 Irish travel trade for the pre-launch inaugural cruise on board its 20th ship, the Norwegian Aqua, marking the introduction of the first vessel in the Prima Plus Class.
The ship was delivered on March 13, 2025, by Fincantieri at its shipyard near Venice, during a ceremony attended by industry leaders.
After its March 23, 2025, maiden voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, it started a westbound Transatlantic crossing to Boston.
The Norwegian Aqua features groundbreaking amenities, including the Aqua Slidecoaster and Glow Court, as well as the innovative Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.
The ship will begin various itineraries in its first year, including Caribbean voyages and Bermuda cruises from New York City during the summer season.
The inaugural European sailing showcased the ship’s innovative features to early passengers.
The Norwegian Aqua is set to be officially christened in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, known for Modern Family, serving as the ship’s godfather, adding a touch of celebrity flair to the occasion.
Spanning 1,056 feet in length and weighing 156,300 gross tons, the Norwegian Aqua is 10% larger than its Prima Class predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, accommodating 3,571 guests at double occupancy.
It offers expansive outdoor spaces and the highest staffing levels of any new contemporary cruise ship, emphasizing NCL’s commitment to guest satisfaction. The ship introduces groundbreaking features, including the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, a three-story ride with dual slides and a magnetic lift.
Other highlights include the Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, and luxurious accommodations like the first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites within The Haven, NCL’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship enclave.
The Norwegian Aqua also features vibrant hull art titled “Where the Sky Meets the Sea,” designed by Allison Hueman, NCL’s first major female hull artist. This colorful, mythology-inspired artwork reflects a blend of abstract and figurative sea and sky elements.
After its European debut, the ship will sail a variety of itineraries in its first year, including short Bahamas trips and 7-day Caribbean voyages from Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, visiting destinations like Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island. From August to September 2025, it will offer 5- and 7-day Bermuda cruises from New York City during the peak summer season.
NCL positions the Norwegian Aqua as a testament to its innovative spirit, blending hallmark Prima Class features—such as spacious staterooms and world-class entertainment—with new dining options like Sukhothai, the line’s first Thai specialty restaurant.
