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Norwegian Aqua Debuts From Port Canaveral With New Features and Amenities

Norwegian Aqua's debut signals Norwegian's fleet expansion and introduces new attractions, upgraded dining, and expanded offerings, reflecting evolving trends in leisure travel and ship design.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially welcomed its newest vessel, Norwegian Aqua, marking a major milestone in its fleet expansion. Debuting on April 26, 2025, from Port Canaveral, the ship is the first in NCL’s Prima-Plus class and introduces cutting-edge features designed to deliver an elevated cruise experience. Alongside a 10 percent increase in capacity over earlier ships, Norwegian Aqua caters to diverse travel preferences with enhanced amenities and itineraries spanning the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Launch at Port Canaveral and Future Itineraries

Norwegian Aqua’s initial deployment from Port Canaveral runs every Saturday through August 2025, offering seven-day sailings that call at Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), and NCL’s exclusive island, Great Stirrup Cay. After August 2025, it repositions to New York City for Bermuda cruises, then moves to Miami from October 2025 to April 2026 for Eastern Caribbean voyages. Port Canaveral CEO Captain John Murray expressed enthusiasm about the homeport arrangement, saying, “We have a great partnership with NCL and are excited to welcome Norwegian Aqua to our homeport fleet. Port Canaveral is the ideal homeport for this new Prima-Plus class ship, especially with more guests driving in to take advantage of our easy in/easy out access.”

NCL President David J. Herrera highlighted the synergy between the port and the ship’s summer launch schedule, stating, “Launching just in time for summer, Norwegian Aqua is designed to offer fun in the sun voyages year-round with outdoor activities for guests looking for thrills, or who simply want to chill. We’re excited to have her begin her cruise journey with our partners at Port Canaveral!”

Onboard Innovations and Expanded Amenities

At the heart of Norwegian Aqua’s appeal is the Aqua Slidecoaster, widely heralded as the world’s first hybrid waterslide and roller coaster at sea. Spanning three decks, this attraction merges aquatic fun with coaster-style thrills. The ship also introduces Glow Court, a digital sports complex with interactive LED flooring that transforms into a nighttime dance venue. Live entertainment includes Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, delivering a high-energy tribute to the artist’s iconic hits.

In lieu of racetracks found on some earlier NCL vessels, Norwegian Aqua dedicates more space to pool areas, landscaped outdoor decks, and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club. Guests can also enjoy 17 dining venues ranging from the specialty Thai restaurant Sukhothai and the Indulge Food Hall (which features a plant-based station) to around-the-clock casual eateries. The upscale Haven enclave has been expanded to 123 suites, including four new duplexes, while dedicated studio staterooms cater to solo travelers without single supplements. Overall, Norwegian Aqua accommodates up to 3,571 passengers at double occupancy, supported by the highest staffing levels per passenger of any contemporary cruise ship.

Upgrades at Great Stirrup Cay

A key highlight of Norwegian Aqua’s itineraries is Great Stirrup Cay, where NCL is undertaking substantial enhancements scheduled for completion by late 2025. The private island will feature a new multi-ship pier, a 28,000-square-foot heated pool with swim-up bars, a family splash zone, and an adults-only beach club offering private cabanas. Improved tram services and expanded visitor facilities are also planned to meet rising demand, as passenger visits to the island are expected to more than double by 2026.

Looking ahead, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to modernize its fleet, with additional Prima-Plus vessels such as Norwegian Luna set to launch in spring 2026. By blending innovative technologies, sustainability-focused design, and upscale amenities, Norwegian Aqua and its sister ships aim to redefine modern cruising and reflect the growing consumer desire for immersive vacations at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Norwegian Aqua unique among contemporary cruise ships?

Norwegian Aqua is the first vessel in NCL’s Prima-Plus class, offering a 10 percent capacity increase over prior ships. It features the Aqua Slidecoaster, Glow Court’s digital sports arena, 17 dining venues, and the highest staffing levels per passenger among contemporary cruise ships.

What are the key destinations on Norwegian Aqua’s itineraries?

Norwegian Aqua sails weekly seven-day routes from Port Canaveral that visit Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay. After August 2025, it repositions to New York City for Bermuda cruises, then operates winter voyages out of Miami to the Eastern Caribbean.

What upgrades are planned for Great Stirrup Cay?

Enhancements scheduled for completion by late 2025 include a new multi-ship pier, a large heated pool with swim-up bars, an adults-only beach club, a splash zone for children, and upgraded facilities—all aimed at accommodating increasing passenger numbers.

How does Norwegian Aqua cater to solo travelers?

The ship offers dedicated studio staterooms designed for solo guests, eliminating the single supplement. These cabins also provide exclusive lounge access, offering a social yet private experience for individual cruisers.