NCL adds the massive Norwegian Aqua to its fleet – and there’s more on the way

• Norwegian Cruise Line has delivered its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua.
• The ship will begin sailing later this month, on March 28.
• It has several features new to NCL, as a rollercoaster/slide fusion and a new production show focused on Prince.

Norwegian Cruise Line has just taken the delivery of its latest ship, Norwegian Aqua, which will become one of its biggest. Norwegian Aqua will become the 20th ship in the cruise line fleet.

While not as big as Norwegian Encounter, Aqua will be bigger than Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva by about 10%, in size and capacity.

The ship will measure 322 metres in length, come out at 156,300 gross tonnes, accommodate 3571 guests, and has a range of new features.

A highlight is the new Aqua Slidecoaster, a proclaimed world-first fusion between a rollercoaster and waterslide.

Those looking for more fun onboard can head to The Aqua Game Zone, where games like Pacman, Donkey Kong, and Mario Bros can be enjoyed, as well as virtual reality experiences.

NCL will also premiere its Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an LED floor, offering a new way to stay active and enjoy sports at sea, before it becomes a nightclub and dancefloor come the evening.

There’ll also be a new dining venue, called Sukhothai, offering Asian-fusion dishes. The food hall will also have a new edition, called Planterie, offering plant-based bowls and healthier options for those looking to keep in shape while on their cruise.

Come the night, there’ll be a brand new production show, a tribute show to the artist Prince, called “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince”. Here, his greatest hits can enjoyed in the expansive NCL theatre.

Where will she sail?

Norwegian Aqua, like many new large ships, will head straight to the Caribbean. She’ll sail out of Miami and Port Canaveral, but will also pivot to New York City and sail some voyages from there.

Those getting onboard out of Florida can expect to visit sunny destinations like the Dominican Republic, Virgin Islands, and NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

Those who board in New York can look forward to Bermuda itineraries, including overnight stays for more time on-shore.

What is NCL saying?

David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line says Norwegian Aqua entering service represents a big moment for the cruise line.

“Norwegian Aqua is more than just a ship—it’s a commitment to our guests that we will continue to push boundaries and deliver MORE at sea.

“From thrilling attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster to the debut of Sukhothai, our first Thai specialty restaurant, Norwegian Aqua is designed to create unforgettable moments while cruising to the Caribbean, Bermuda and our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, where we remain focused and excited about investing in the guest experience.”

Another ship on the way

There’s also plenty more happening behind the scenes, with another new ship Norwegian Luna, floating out for the first tomorrow, where it will move to the floating dock that was previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua. Luna will then be ready for action by April 2026, when it will begin sailing.

Furthermore, NCL is about to start building bigger ships than ever. With a giant order of four ships that carry a massive 8300 passengers and crew on the way as well. These will arrive between 2023 and 2036.

NCL builds its ships at Fincantieri shipyard, a deal which Herrera says is crucial to the cruise lines’ growth and development.

“We are deeply grateful to Fincantieri for its partnership and expertise in bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, paving the way for NCL’s continued growth and success. And with Norwegian Luna’s float out, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter of our fleet expansion.”

Luigi Matarazzo, general manager merchant ships division of Fincantieri echoes the statement.

“Norwegian Aqua is a testament to the solid and enduring partnership between Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri, recently reaffirmed by the historic order of the four largest ships ever built by our Group for the brand.

“This ship embodies our shared commitment to technological innovation and excellence, marking another milestone in a thriving cruise industry where Fincantieri continues to lead the way. We are honoured to bring yet another ground-breaking vessel to life and look forward to continuing our partnership with all the exciting projects to come.”