Under the warm glow of PortMiami’s LEED® Gold Certified terminal lights, Norwegian Aqua embarked on her official journey with a spectacular christening on 14 April 2025. As guests gathered in Miami’s ‘Cruise Capital of the World’, Emmy® Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet—Aqua’s godfather—blessed the vessel in a time-honoured maritime tradition. Against a backdrop of modern architecture and ocean breeze, this landmark event celebrated NCL’s commitment to innovation, freedom and the promise of MORE unforgettable moments at sea.
A Christening Ceremony to Remember
More than 2,000 guests—including travel advisors, media representatives, industry partners and NCL executives—attended the dazzling gala in the company’s state-of-the-art terminal. The evening began with a powerful preview of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” NCL’s first theatrical concert experience, combining acrobatics, choreography and live vocals in tribute to the musical icon.
After heartfelt remarks by NCL President David J. Herrera and Chairperson Stella David, the stage was set for the christening ritual. Eric Stonestreet joined Captain Robert Lundberg, Pastor Pete Pera and Cruise Director Everson Bevelle on deck, where Stonestreet’s ribbon-cutting triggered the ceremonial shattering of a champagne bottle on Norwegian Aqua’s hull. The ceremony concluded with a stunning drone and fireworks display over Biscayne Bay, illuminating the ship and symbolising new horizons for NCL.
Honouring Innovation at PortMiami
Choosing to christen Norwegian Aqua at NCL’s LEED® Gold terminal highlighted the line’s dedication to sustainable operations and guest-centric design. The facility’s biometric embarkation system, automated baggage handling and spacious glass atriums exemplify how seamless technology enriches the cruise experience from the very first step. As family and friends waved farewell from the terminal balconies, they witnessed how land-based innovation seamlessly connects to Aqua’s own onboard marvels.
Discovering Prima Plus Class: Onboard Thrills & Serenity
Aqua stands at the vanguard of NCL’s Prima Plus Class, blending high-energy attractions with tranquil retreats across 18 decks. The ship’s star feature, the Aqua Slidecoaster, merges a powered-launch rollercoaster with twisting dual water slides spanning three levels, marking a viral sensation that delivers thrill-seekers an adrenaline-fuelled ride above the ocean’s edge. Nearby, The Drop’s 10-storey dry slide and the Glow Court’s interactive LED sports floor offer family fun by day and nightclub vibes by night.
For those seeking serenity, the adults-only Vibe Beach Club provides panoramic ocean views from private cabanas and lounge chairs, complemented by premium drinks service. Wellness enthusiasts can retreat to the Mandara Spa & Salon for rejuvenating treatments, thermal suites and curated fitness classes. Across 17 dining venues and 18 bars, guests savour everything from Onda by Scarpetta’s modern Italian fare to the casual flavours of Pincho Tapas Bar, while the new world-class specialty restaurants invite epicureans to indulge in tasting menus and expertly paired wines.
Unveiling Great Stirrup Cay’s Next Chapter
During the christening, NCL President Herrera teased the future of Great Stirrup Cay—the brand’s private island paradise. Set to open in Q4 2025 alongside the completion of a new multi-ship pier, the island enhancements will deliver MORE to do and MORE ways to unwind. An oversized heated pool, complete with a swim-up bar, will form the heartbeat of a vibrant leisure zone. Adjacent to it, a children’s splash park will feature interactive fountains and play structures tailor‑made for families.
A welcoming guest centre will streamline island arrivals, while a tram service ensures effortless transport to key experiences. Adults can escape to the island’s own Vibe Beach Club, with private cabanas, sun loungers and dedicated beverage service mirroring the shipboard sanctuary. Families will gather at Horizon Park, a new lawn‑style recreation area showcasing oversized board games and communal seating under swaying palms. To capture Great Stirrup Cay’s laid-back spirit, NCL plans Tiki-inspired lounge areas with hammocks and shaded nooks—inviting guests to pause, sway and soak in the Bahamian sun.
Seamless Celebration Voyage to Ocean Cay
Immediately following the naming, Norwegian Aqua embarked on a two‑night celebratory sailing to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. On this post‑christening voyage, the MSC Foundation inaugurated its new Marine Conservation Centre, championing the Super Coral Program with hands‑on exhibits and opportunities to meet resident marine biologists. By night, the island came alive with a signature lighthouse light show and a spirited DJ beach party. The next morning, guests could choose between paddleboarding in turquoise shallows or simply lounging on pristine sands before the ship’s expansive deck spaces beckoned them back aboard.
Inaugural Season: Caribbean & Bermuda Horizons
From 12 April 2025, Norwegian Aqua launches a diverse season of voyages designed to showcase tropical wonders. Seven‑day Eastern Caribbean cruises sail from Port Canaveral with calls at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and include an extended day at Great Stirrup Cay.
In August, the ship returns to New York City for five‑ and seven‑night Bermuda sailings, offering guests the chance to explore Hamilton’s pastel streets and the island’s famed pink-sand beaches. By October 2025, Aqua docks in Miami to resume its Eastern Caribbean schedule through April 2026, ensuring cruisers can experience winter sun across multiple homeports.
Added Value with More At Sea™
To complement these itineraries, Norwegian Aqua voyages feature NCL’s More At Sea™ package, an all-inclusive concept that delivers over 75% in savings. Guests enjoy unlimited open bar—including premium spirits like Casamigos Tequila and Woodford Reserve—complimentary specialty dining, high-speed Wi-Fi and USD 50 shore excursion credit per port. Families benefit from free airfare for a second guest and kids sailing free on select sailings, cementing NCL’s philosophy of freedom and flexibility to design the perfect holiday.
Norwegian Aqua’s christening and the forthcoming Great Stirrup Cay upgrades reinforce NCL’s position as a leader in innovative cruising, particularly within the competitive Caribbean market. As cruise demand continues to soar, the combination of next‑generation ships and revitalised private destinations offers travellers unmatched options for sun-soaked escapes and immersive island days.
By investing in both vessel design and destination experiences, NCL ensures guests receive a comprehensive holiday that balances thrill, relaxation and discovery—whether they’re racing the Slidecoaster’s high-speed launch or drifting in a hammock on a secluded Bahamian beach.
Discover Aqua’s full schedule, cabin types and island expansion details on Cruise Finder. Compare dates, durations and More At Sea™ packages to create your own tailored cruise adventure.
Book Your Norwegian Aqua Escape Today
Experience the best of shipboard innovation and island paradise with Norwegian Aqua. Contact S.W. Black Travel to book your Norwegian Aqua cruise and allow our consultants to secure exclusive rates, priority cabins and personalised shore excursion planning.
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