By
Laura Hyde |
Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, has welcomed its first guests as it sails its maiden voyage from Lisbon, Portugal, to Southampton, England. This voyage is the first of a five-part inaugural series, which concludes in Miami, Florida, where the official christening will take place on 13 April 2025.
Over 2,000 invited guests are onboard the Prima Plus-class ship to experience the cruise brand’s newest offerings and experiences. They include the Aqua Slidecoaster, a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide which the brand says are the longest and fastest slides at sea; the Glow Court sports complex which features an interactive LED floor; and the Aqua Game Zone which offers a mix of retro arcade games, virtual reality challenges and interactive gaming experiences.
The Aqua Slidecoaster is a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that Norwegian Cruise Line says are both the longest and fastest slides at sea
The 3,571-guest ship also has 17 new and returning restaurants, including the brand’s new plant-based eatery, Planterie, as well as 18 bars and lounges.
Entertainment highlights include ‘Revolution: A Celebration of Prince’, which pays tribute to the late singer, and ‘Elements: The World Expanded’, which blends acrobatics, magic and visuals inspired by the four elements.
“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,” 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’s selfie sculpture
Emmy award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, who is best known for playing Cameron Tucker in the ABC sitcom Modern Family, will serve as Norwegian Aqua’s godfather when the ship is christened in Miami in April.