Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua Makes Historic Debut, Marking a New Era of Luxury Cruising from Lisbon to Southampton

Published on March 24, 2025

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), a global pioneer in cruise travel, has officially welcomed its first guests aboard the much-anticipated Norwegian Aqua, setting sail on her inaugural voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England.

This marks a significant milestone in NCL’s fleet evolution as Norwegian Aqua leads the way with over 2,000 invited guests onboard to explore the latest innovations and enhancements NCL has introduced. This voyage kicks off a five-part inaugural series, culminating in Miami with the ship’s official christening in April.

As the flagship of the new Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua expands on the success of the award-winning Prima Class, offering groundbreaking experiences designed to deliver MORE of what cruisers love about NCL. The guests aboard this exclusive inaugural journey are among the first to enjoy the ship’s industry-leading attractions and amenities. To commemorate this exciting moment, NCL has unveiled a first look at its 20th ship, highlighting its refined design and key innovations.

“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.”

“Norwegian Aqua marks an exciting new chapter for NCL, delivering more of what guests love – more space, more entertainment, and more dining, including firsts like Sukhothai and Planterie,” said Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director NCL APAC. “As the first in our Prima Plus Class, we are thrilled to introduce the next generation of our fleet to travel industry partners and media this week on this inaugural sailing and can’t wait for guests to experience our elevated product. Norwegian Aqua is the perfect addition joining our Prima Class ships and other award-winning ships to sail to more than 450 destinations worldwide.”

Norwegian Aqua introduces a range of groundbreaking and exclusive features aimed at enhancing the guest experience. Leading the charge is the exhilarating Aqua Slidecoaster – a world-first hybrid waterslide and rollercoaster that offers two unique rides, setting the record as the longest and fastest slides at sea. Guests will also find the state-of-the-art Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor that shifts seamlessly between games during the day and transforms into a vibrant club at night. The Aqua Game Zone takes the concept of NCL’s beloved Galaxy Pavilion to new heights, offering a mix of nostalgic arcade games, immersive virtual reality challenges, and interactive gaming experiences for all ages.

Entertainment aboard Norwegian Aqua is second to none, with a variety of world-class productions created in collaboration with top industry talents. Among the standout performances is Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, an immersive concert experience that honors the legendary artist’s iconic hits. Guests can also enjoy Elements: The World Expanded, an enhanced version of NCL’s popular show, combining acrobatics, magic, and spectacular visuals inspired by the four elements.

For those seeking culinary adventure, Norwegian Aqua offers 17 new and returning restaurants, along with 18 bars and lounges. A highlight among the dining options is Sukhothai, NCL’s first Thai specialty restaurant, which brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to life in a chic, modern setting. Additionally, Planterie, the brand’s inaugural plant-based restaurant at Indulge Food Hall, promises a fresh and flavorful dining experience.

After completing her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Aqua will sail on a Transatlantic journey to the United States, where she will be officially christened in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet will serve as the godfather of the ship. Following the christening, she will homeport in Miami, the Cruise Capital of the World, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla., and New York City, offering Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda itineraries tailored to a wide range of travelers until March 2027.

Guests can enjoy unlimited premium beverages from top brands like Casamigos Tequila, Woodford Reserve, and Grey Goose Vodka, specialty dining meals, high-speed Wi-Fi, and $50 shore excursion credits at every port of call. More At Sea provides an incredible value with savings of over 75%.