- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) christened its new cruise ship, Norwegian Aqua, in Miami. At the same time, it announced the expansion of its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas.
The ceremony was held at the company’s LEED Gold-awarded terminal at PortMiami and included the traditional blessing of the ship in the presence of 2,000 guests. The honorary “godfather” of Norwegian Aqua was two-time Emmy award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, who expressed his excitement about his collaboration with NCL, emphasizing that he is looking forward to experiencing the experiences himself with his family.
Details about the new ship
Norwegian Aqua is 321 meters long and can accommodate up to 3,571 passengers, with double the capacity in the cabins. The ship features a combined roller coaster and waterslide – the first of its kind in the world, according to NCL. A digital sports complex transforms into a nightclub at night. For families, there’s an arcade with virtual reality experiences.
On the dining front, NCL is introducing two new features: a Thai specialty restaurant called Sukhothai and Planterie, the fleet’s first all-plant-based restaurant. For the first time, accommodations also include three-bedroom suites in the exclusive Haven area.
New attractions on private island
Additional amenities are also set to be built on the cruise line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas, by the end of 2025, NCL President David J. Herrera said. Plans include a heated pool with a swim-up bar, a children’s marine play area, and an adults-only beach club. A new pier will allow multiple ships to dock at the same time.
Great Stirrup Cay currently covers 238 hectares and has three beaches. It has six bars and four restaurants. Activities include water sports. The luxurious Silver Cove area offers 38 beachfront villas, an infinity pool, a spa, and an exclusive Mo?t & Chandon bar.
Norwegian Aqua’s first sailings
From Port Canaveral, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean. Cruises to Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), and Great Stirrup Cay are scheduled.
Starting in August 2025, the ship will sail from New York to Bermuda. In October 2025, it will move to Miami for additional Caribbean routes.
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