Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the 20th ship in its fleet and the first in the next-generation Prima Plus Class, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.
As Norwegian Aqua prepares to enter service, NCL celebrates the float out of Norwegian Luna, marking the completion of its exterior work and its first contact with water. Norwegian Luna will then move to the floating dock previously used by Norwegian Aqua for interior construction in preparation for its launch in April 2026.
Building on the legacy of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua is 10 per cent larger in size and capacity, offering new features while providing enhanced services to guests, including premium dining, entertainment, and exclusive onboard experiences.
After showcasing her innovations during a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey from Southampton (the UK) on March 28 this year. She will mark her much-anticipated arrival to the US on April 4, for two inaugural events in Boston and New York City. On April 13, the ship will be officially christened in Miami in a celebratory ceremony with NCL brand ambassador and Norwegian Aqua godfather, Eric Stonestreet.
During her first year of service, Norwegian Aqua will sail from Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, as well as New York City. Departing from Florida ports, Norwegian Aqua will offer short voyages to the Bahamas as well as seven-day Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations such as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, as well as Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island paradise in the Bahamas. The island will become even more accessible to guests with the addition of a new pier later this year.
Sailing from New York City in August and September 2025, Norwegian Aqua will offer Bermuda cruises during the peak summer season. During her five- to seven-day Bermuda itineraries, guests will enjoy convenient overnight stays, allowing more time to explore the island’s golf courses, vibrant culture, and famous underground caves, all just a short voyage from the US East Coast.
David J Herrera, president of NCL, said: “We are deeply grateful to Fincantieri for its partnership and expertise in bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, paving the way for NCL’s continued growth and success. And with Norwegian Luna’s float out, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter of our fleet expansion.”
Luigi Matarazzo, general manager merchant ships division of Fincantieri, added: “This ship embodies our shared commitment to technological innovation and excellence, marking another milestone in a thriving cruise industry where Fincantieri continues to lead the way. We are honoured to bring yet another ground-breaking vessel to life and look forward to continuing our partnership with all the exciting projects to come.”
