MIAMI — Norwegian Cruise Line has officially welcomed its first guests aboard the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua as the ship embarks on its maiden voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England.

The new vessel marks the debut of NCL’s Prima Plus Class and introduces a host of new features and experiences designed to provide guests with more space, entertainment, and culinary options.

Pool deck

Norwegian Aqua is hosting more than 2,000 invited guests on the first of five inaugural sailings, culminating in Miami, where the ship will be officially christened in April.

“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. “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.”

Among the standout features aboard Norwegian Aqua is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, delivering two unique ride experiences as the longest and fastest slides at sea. The ship also debuts Glow Court, a next-generation digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor that transforms into a club at night. Additionally, the Aqua Game Zone revamps NCL’s Galaxy Pavilion with a mix of classic arcade games, virtual reality attractions, and interactive gaming.

Entertainment is another major highlight, with Norwegian Aqua featuring world-class productions. “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” headlines the lineup, offering an immersive theatrical concert experience honouring the music legend. Guests can also enjoy “Elements: The World Expanded,” an enhanced version of one of NCL’s most popular shows, combining acrobatics, magic and stunning visual effects inspired by the four elements.

The ship also introduces new dining experiences, including Sukhothai, NCL’s first Thai specialty restaurant, and Planterie, a plant-based eatery within Indulge Food Hall. In total, Norwegian Aqua offers 17 dining options and 18 bars and lounges, catering to a variety of tastes.

Following its European debut, Norwegian Aqua will cross the Atlantic for its christening in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet serving as its godfather. The ship will then be based in Miami, Port Canaveral and New York City, offering Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries through March 2027.

For guests looking to enhance their cruise experience, NCL’s More At Sea program provides added value with unlimited open bar, specialty dining, high-speed Wi-Fi and shore excursion credits, as well as free airfare for a second guest and kids sailing free on select voyages.

For more information on Norwegian Aqua and NCL’s fleet, visit www.ncl.com.