Norwegian Aqua Debuts in New York With Innovative Bermuda Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest Prima-class ship, Norwegian Aqua, has officially launched its U.S. Northeast season from New York City, offering a variety of compelling itineraries to Bermuda and the Caribbean. Entering service in April 2025, the 3,571-guest vessel represents an evolution of onboard experiences with cutting-edge features, including the world’s first Aqua Slidecoaster, an expanded pool deck, and Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only retreat. The ship’s arrival in New York City on August 18, 2025, marked a significant milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line, further reinforcing the importance of its Northeast operations.

A New Era for Cruises in the Northeast

Norwegian Aqua kicked off her maiden season by completing her first Bermuda voyage, although adjustments were made due to Hurricane Erin. Initially scheduled for a four-night cruise to Kings Wharf with overnight stays, the ship redirected to Saint John, Canada, to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Subsequent itineraries resumed as planned, with weeklong cruises featuring extended three-day visits to Bermuda’s West End and Royal Naval Dockyard, allowing travelers to explore the island’s iconic pink sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Seasonal Itineraries

Through late October 2025, Norwegian Aqua offers five- and seven-night cruises departing from Manhattan to Bermuda. After completing her Northeast season, the ship will reposition to Miami in October 2025 for winter sailings to the Caribbean and The Bahamas. Key destinations include Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s private island), Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and Tortola, with itinerary durations ranging from four to seven nights.

The vessel will return to New York City in April 2026 for an extended summer season, sailing through October 2026. These Bermuda itineraries will include five- to eight-night voyages featuring multi-day visits to the Royal Naval Dockyard and Kings Wharf.

Innovative Onboard Features

As the third ship in Norwegian’s Prima class, Norwegian Aqua introduces several headline attractions that cater to a diverse range of travelers. Its most notable features include:

• The Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first ride of its kind at sea, accompanied by the longest and fastest water slides on any ship.
• An expanded pool deck with multiple relaxation areas and interactive aqua zones.
• The adults-only Vibe Beach Club, offering cabanas, hot tubs, an exclusive bar, and premium loungers for optimal relaxation.
• Glow Court and Aqua Game Zone for active, immersive play.
• Mandara Spa & Salon and the Thermal Suite for wellness-focused pampering.

Additionally, guests can choose from 17 unique dining venues and enjoy live entertainment and nightlife performances, ensuring every aspect of the cruise delivers a premium experience.

Market Impact and Business Perspective

Norwegian Cruise Line has emphasized the strategic importance of New York City as a homeport. "New York is an incredibly important market for us, so we’re excited to showcase our newest ship from here,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

"We look forward to our guests enjoying all the onboard experiences the Norwegian Aqua has to offer with their loved ones before relaxing on the pink sandy beaches and dipping into the clear blue waters of Bermuda," Sommer added. To celebrate the vessel’s inaugural season, Norwegian issued promotional offers, including discounts of up to 50% on all cruises and a “More At Sea” package, which includes premium open bar services, specialty dining meals, high-speed Wi-Fi minutes, and shore excursion credits for the lead traveler.

The launch of Norwegian Aqua reaffirms Norwegian Cruise Line’s position as an industry leader focused on innovative amenities and guest experiences alongside a commitment to key cruise markets such as New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Norwegian Aqua unique among cruise ships?

Norwegian Aqua belongs to Norwegian’s Prima class and introduces groundbreaking innovations such as the Aqua Slidecoaster, Glow Court, Aqua Game Zone, and premium features like the adults-only Vibe Beach Club and an expanded pool deck.

Where will Norwegian Aqua sail during the 2025–26 season?

The ship alternates between Bermuda itineraries from New York City through October 2025 before transitioning to Miami for cruises exploring the Caribbean and The Bahamas. Key destinations include Great Stirrup Cay, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and Tortola. It returns to New York in April 2026 for extended Bermuda sailings.

What promotional offers are currently available for Norwegian Aqua cruises?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers discounts of up to 50% on select cruises alongside its “More At Sea” package, which provides unlimited open bar services, specialty dining, high-speed internet, and shore excursion credits for the first guest.

How did Hurricane Erin affect Norwegian Aqua’s inaugural voyage from NYC?

To ensure safety during the storm, the vessel re-routed its maiden four-night trip to Saint John, Canada, instead of Kings Wharf, Bermuda. Regular sailings resumed afterward.

What has Norwegian Cruise Line said about its New York City market?

NCL’s CEO Harry Sommer highlighted New York City as a core market for the company and celebrated the opportunity to showcase Norwegian Aqua while enhancing guest experiences through premium itineraries and onboard innovations.