Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Today, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), known for pushing boundaries in global cruise travel, unveiled exciting new culinary and beverage offerings that will premiere on Norwegian Aqua. This vessel marks NCL’s latest advancement as part of the expanded Prima Plus Class, and it is scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage in April 2025.
Continuing its dedication to providing unparalleled vacation experiences, Norwegian Aqua is set to introduce three exciting new onboard features: Sukhothai, NCL’s inaugural Thai specialty restaurant; Swirl Wine Bar, an elegant new addition focused on fine wines; and Planterie, the Brand’s debut eatery exclusively offering a comprehensive plant-based menu. These additions complement the beloved favorites that guests have come to cherish.
“Discovering new flavors and dining experiences is such a memorable part of any vacation, especially when you share it with those who matter most to you,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Expanding on our award-winning food and beverage program, we’re looking forward to bringing new concepts to life aboard Norwegian Aqua, while continuing to deliver on the variety of available offerings and value that NCL delivers.”
Discover Exciting Culinary and Bar Adventures
Launching its debut on the cutting-edge Norwegian Aqua is Sukhothai, the Company’s premiere Thai specialty restaurant, presenting an eclectic menu brimming with authentic, traditional dishes infused with inventive, dynamic flavors. Anticipate a fresh interpretation of classic favorites like Thai Cashew Chicken, Salt and Pepper Prawns, Thai Grilled Steak Salad, a range of complementing curries, and more. Conceived by London’s SMC Design firm, the upscale dining spot seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics, welcoming guests with bamboo and rice paper pendant lights, a striking geometric-patterned floor, and vibrant furniture evoking the cultural vibrancy of Thailand.
Returning to delight guests at the beloved Indulge Food Hall is the new Planterie eatery, offering plant-based bowls and other wholesome choices. Nestled on deck eight, Planterie’s menu boasts delights such as the Southwest Bowl with smoked tempeh and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl brimming with spiced vegetables, tabbouleh, and honey-roasted carrots. With indoor and outdoor seating, Indulge Food Hall showcases a revamped design by New York’s Rockwell Group, featuring 10 food stations inspired by global food markets. Notable design elements include deep wood accents, gold and metal furnishings, and warm, inviting tones throughout.
Also debuting on Norwegian Aqua is the Swirl Wine Bar, a contemporary wine lounge offering a unique blend of exclusivity and approachability. Tucked away on deck six between the popular Whiskey Bar and Hasuki, this hidden gem boasts a comprehensive wine-by-the-glass menu and an extensive selection of rare and premium vintages. Designed by Miami’s Studio DADO, the venue draws inspiration from the mesmerizing beauty of Antelope Canyon in Arizona, featuring warm color hues, cascading horizontal lines, and serene blue touches for an inviting and enchanting ambiance.
Revamped, Redesigned Spaces
The all-new Norwegian Aqua introduces enhanced restaurants and lounges, building upon the success of the Prima Class. Studio DADO’s creative vision transforms the Commodore Room, a main complimentary dining room, into a rustic yet luxurious space inspired by maritime themes. Guests will be transported to a world of maritime sophistication with antique wood furnishings, leather banquettes, pier-like floors, and stunning stone accents, all infused with a modern touch.
Metropolitan, NCL’s acclaimed Sail & Sustain cocktail bar, returns with a fresh design on Norwegian Aqua. Relocated to the aft of deck seven, this innovative bar now features a grand piano and a small entertainment area for live music, offering an easy-going ambiance inspired by New York City’s art deco and mid-century modern aesthetics.
Nama Sushi and Sashimi, a favorite from Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, showcases a lively new design aboard Norwegian Aqua, drawing inspiration from the vibrant world of Manga art with bold lime green and black hues.
Surfside Café on deck 17 offers breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows, while Palomar, the upscale Mediterranean seafood venue, features a redesigned space with natural materials and inviting color palettes. Other venues such as Whiskey Bar, Belvedere Bar, Penrose Bar, Waves Pool Bar, The Local Bar & Grill, Hasuki, and Cagney’s have also received fresh designs and expansions to cater to more guests.
Returning Favorites
Alongside new experiences, Norwegian Aqua brings back guest-favorite restaurants like Hudson’s, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, and Onda by Scarpetta, offering a range of culinary delights from scenic views to authentic international cuisines.
With NCL’s Free at Sea program, guests can enjoy added value with benefits like specialty dining credits, unlimited beverage packages, shore excursion credits, Wi-Fi minutes, and more.
Set to be the 20th ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, Norwegian Aqua promises unique experiences such as the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, the Glow Court digital sports complex, and NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites in The Haven by Norwegian®.
Starting April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will embark on seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Fla., visiting Puerto Plata, Tortola, St. Thomas, and Great Stirrup Cay. The ship will then offer voyages to Bermuda from New York City and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami, promising unforgettable journeys for guests seeking adventure and luxury.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
