Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has welcomed its first guests aboard the highly anticipated Norwegian Aqua before setting off on her inaugural voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England.

Marking a new chapter in NCL’s fleet evolution, Norwegian Aqua is hosting over 2,000 invited guests aboard to showcase how the brand delivers with its latest innovations and offerings.

This marks the first of a five-part inaugural series, culminating in Miami with the official christening voyage in April.

NCL President David J Herrera stated:

“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. During this inaugural season, we look forward to welcoming our travel partners from around the world to give them the exclusivity of being the first to experience our newest product.”
(Translation: This is a key moment for Norwegian Cruise Line as we embark on our first journey with Norwegian Aqua, which is tailored to provide our guests with more space, excitement, culinary delights, and entertainment.)

NCL Vice President Ben Angell added:

“Norwegian Aqua marks an exciting new chapter for NCL, delivering more of what guests love… (Translation: Norwegian Aqua represents an exciting new era for NCL, providing more of what our guests enjoy…)

Following her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Aqua will head for a transatlantic crossing to the United States, where she will be officially christened in Miami on April 13, with Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet serving as her godfather.

From Miami, she will operate itineraries through Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda until March 2027.

A cutting-edge pioneer

Norwegian Aqua is the first in the cutting-edge Prima Plus Class, enhancing the legacy of the Prima Class and introducing groundbreaking experiences for guests.

Guests aboard this inaugural voyage can enjoy the ship’s industry-leading attractions, including the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster, which is the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide.

World-class entertainment at sea

There will be an array of entertainment options, including a theatrical concert experience dedicated to the legendary Prince.

Additionally, guests will be able to indulge in new and returning culinary experiences, including NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant and the brand’s debut plant-based eatery.