Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is setting the stage for an extraordinary dining adventure aboard its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, launching in April 2025. As the first vessel in the expanded Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua promises to elevate the cruise experience with innovative culinary offerings.
Introducing Sukhothai: A Taste of Thailand
For the first time, NCL will feature a dedicated Thai restaurant, Sukhothai. Located on deck 17, this specialty dining venue is designed by London-based SMC Design, blending traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics. Diners will be welcomed by an inviting atmosphere complete with bamboo and rice paper pendant lights, geometric flooring, and vibrant furniture.
Sukhothai's menu will offer authentic and dynamic flavours, including Thai Cashew Chicken, Salt and Pepper Prawns, and Thai Grilled Steak Salad. David J. Herrera, President of NCL, shared his excitement: “Discovering new flavours and dining experiences is such a memorable part of any vacation, especially when you share it with those who matter most to you.”
Planterie: Plant-Based Dining Redefined
Deck eight will house Planterie, a new plant-based eatery within the popular Indulge Food Hall. Designed by the Rockwell Group, this venue features 10 food stations inspired by international markets. The menu includes health-conscious dishes like the Southwest Bowl with smoked tempeh and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl with spiced vegetables and honey-roasted carrots.
Planterie offers both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a warm and inviting environment with deep wood accents, gold and metal furnishings, and vibrant colours.
Swirl Wine Bar: A Refined Experience
On deck six, nestled between the Whiskey Bar and Hasuki, the Swirl Wine Bar will debut. This contemporary wine lounge is designed by Studio DADO, drawing inspiration from Arizona's Antelope Canyon with cascading lines and serene blue accents. Swirl Wine Bar will offer an extensive wine-by-the-glass menu and rare vintage selections, providing an intimate setting for wine enthusiasts.
Redesigned and Enhanced Venues
Norwegian Aqua will feature several redesigned venues, enhancing the overall dining experience. The Commodore Room, one of the main complimentary dining rooms, now boasts a rustic yet luxurious design inspired by maritime sophistication. Metropolitan, NCL's award-winning Sail & Sustain cocktail bar, has relocated to the aft of deck seven, featuring live music and an art deco-inspired atmosphere.
Nama Sushi and Sashimi will showcase a fresh design influenced by Manga art, while Surfside Café and Palomar offer scenic views and vibrant, new interiors. Whiskey Bar and Belvedere Bar have been relocated and expanded, ensuring more space for guests to enjoy their favourite drinks.
Returning Favourites and More
Norwegian Aqua will also bring back guest-favourite restaurants such as Hudson's, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, and Onda by Scarpetta, each with their unique charm and delectable menus.
NCL's Free at Sea program continues to provide exceptional value, including specialty dining credits, unlimited beverages, shore excursion credits, and Wi-Fi minutes. As the 20th ship in NCL’s fleet, Norwegian Aqua will introduce several industry-first experiences, including the Aqua Slidecoaster and the Glow Court, enhancing the onboard adventure.
Starting April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida. Following its Caribbean season, the ship will offer voyages to Bermuda from New York City and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami, providing guests with diverse travel options. To know more about this promotion by NCL, read here.
Embark on Your Culinary Adventure
As we have read, Norwegian Aqua is set to redefine the cruising experience with its innovative culinary offerings and enhanced dining venues. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary adventure. If you want to embark on this next chapter of luxury cruising, get in touch with a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel, ensuring your journey on board these magnificent travels is tailored to your specific needs.
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