Travelbiz E-Zine
27
March
2025

Norwegian Cruise Line® Concludes First Voyage Aboard its All New Norwegian Aqua™ in Europe

#Traveltradetogether

NCL’s Newest Ship Ushers in a New Era of Innovation and Elevated Guest Experiences.

The Cruise Line Releases the First Images and Videos of Norwegian Aqua.

Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), a global leader in innovative cruise travel, has concluded the maiden voyage of its highly anticipated new ship, Norwegian Aqua, from Lisbon to Southampton, England.

Marking a new chapter in NCL’s fleet evolution, Norwegian Aqua hosted over 2,000 invited guests aboard to experience how the Brand is delivering MORE with its newest innovations and offerings.

As the first vessel in the cutting-edge Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua builds on the legacy of the award-winning Prima Class and introduces groundbreaking experiences allowing guests to enjoy MORE of what they love about cruising with NCL. Guests aboard this exclusive inaugural voyage are among the first to experience the ship’s industry-leading attractions and amenities. To celebrate the occasion, NCL releases a first look of its 20th ship showcasing its upscale design and key innovations.

“This was 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 brings to life an array of industry-first and brand-exclusive features designed to elevate the guest experience. Leading the way is the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster – the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide – offering two exhilarating and unique ride experiences as the longest and fastest slides at sea. Guests can also enjoy the cutting-edge Glow Court, a next-generation digital sports complex featuring an interactive LED floor that seamlessly adapts for different games during the day and transforms to a club at night. Additionally, the Aqua Game Zone reimagines NCL’s beloved Galaxy Pavilion, providing entertainment for all ages with a mix of retro arcade games, immersive virtual reality challenges, and interactive gaming experiences.

There is no shortage of entertainment on board with Norwegian Aqua’s lineup, which features world-class productions created in collaboration with top industry talent. “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” headlines the roster, delivering an immersive theatrical concert experience that pays tribute to the legendary artist’s greatest hits. Guests can also experience “Elements: The World Expanded”, an enhanced version of NCL’s top-rated show, blending acrobatics, magic, and stunning visuals inspired by the four elements.

Moreover, guests can go on epicurean adventures in 17 new and returning guest-favorite restaurants as well as 18 bars and lounges. New dining experiences aboard Norwegian Aqua include Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant offering a rich culinary journey inspired by Thailand’s vibrant cuisine in an elegant, modern setting, and Planterie, the brand’s debut plant-based eatery at Indulge Food Hall.

Following her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Aqua embarks on a Transatlantic voyage to the United States, where she will be officially christened in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Emmy® Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet serving as her godfather. She will then homeport in Miami, the Cruise Capital of the World, and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla., as well as New York City, offering Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries tailored to every type of traveler until March 2027.

For guests planning their next cruise vacation aboard Norwegian Aqua or any ship in NCL’s fleet the Company’s brand-new program, More At Sea™, provides travelers more value with unlimited open bar featuring premium beverage brands such as Casamigos Tequila, Woodford Reserve, Grey Goose Vodka and more; as well as specialty dining meals; high- speed Wi-Fi minutes; and $50 shore excursion credits at every port of call. More At Sea delivers guests an incredible value with savings of over 75%. For more details on NCL’s new More At Sea offering,

visit www.ncl.com/cruise-deals/more-at-sea.

For more information about Norwegian Aqua, NCL’s award-winning 20-ship fleet, and worldwide itineraries, please contact a travel professional or visit www.ncl.com.

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    60% of Irish Holidaymakers yet to book their 2026 holiday
    29th April 2026

    60% of Irish Holidaymakers yet to book their 2026 holiday

    The latest Travel Sentiment Survey from Click&Go Holidays reveals Irish holidaymakers remain eager to travel but are taking a more cautious approach to booking, with rising costs and geopolitica...

    Read more
    San Diego brings year-round sunshine to Dublin
    29th April 2026

    San Diego brings year-round sunshine to Dublin

    Our very own Ita Hendrick (Travelbiz Trade Partner Executive) was delighted to join Benjamin Eastman, Senior Director of Tourism Development, San Diego Tourism Authority, alongside Alex Perez, S...

    Read more
    Orient Express and Chantiers de L’atlantique Celebrate the Naming of Orient Express Corinthian, the World’s Largest Sailing Yacht, in Saint-Nazaire
    29th April 2026

    Orient Express and Chantiers de L’atlantique Celebrate the Naming of Orient Express Corinthian, the World’s Largest Sailing Yacht, in Saint-Nazaire

    Orient Express and Chantiers de l'Atlantique today celebrate the baptism of Orient Express Corinthian, the world's largest sailing yacht, at the Joubert graving dock in Saint-Nazaire. 

    Read more
    Riviera Travel Expands Solo Cabin Availability Across Selected 2026 River Cruises
    29th April 2026

    Riviera Travel Expands Solo Cabin Availability Across Selected 2026 River Cruises

    As the leading river cruise operator for solo guests, Riviera Travel has announced an enhanced range of specially priced solo cabins across a selection of its most popular river cruise departure...

    Read more
    Over 56,000 passengers set to travel through Shannon Airport over May Bank Holiday period, up 9% on 2025
    29th April 2026

    Over 56,000 passengers set to travel through Shannon Airport over May Bank Holiday period, up 9% on 2025

    Shannon Airport is getting ready for a busy May bank holiday period, with more than 56,000 passengers expected to travel through the airport. This represents an increase of 9% on the same period...

    Read more
    TAP AIR PORTUGAL WINS AWARD FOR BEST STOPOVER PROGRAM
    29th April 2026

    TAP AIR PORTUGAL WINS AWARD FOR BEST STOPOVER PROGRAM

    TAP Air Portugal was awarded Best Stopover Program for the eighth consecutive year at the 14th edition of the Global Traveler Leisure Lifestyle Awards. This recognition highlights the popularity...

    Read more