Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, was officially christened in Miami over the weekend, marking a key milestone in the brand’s ongoing expansion across the Caribbean and Bahamas.
Leading the ceremony was two-time Emmy® Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, best known for his role in Modern Family, who has been named godfather to Norwegian Aqua.
According to NCL, Stonestreet’s “authenticity” and larger-than-life energy reflect the brand’s ‘Experience More at Sea’ promise—delivering bigger, bolder cruise experiences for multigenerational travellers.
The ceremony took place at NCL’s LEED® Gold Certified terminal at Port Miami in front of more than 2,000 attendees and included a preview of Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, the brand’s new onboard theatrical production.
Great Stirrup Cay gets a glow-up
During the christening, NCL President David J. Herrera also revealed new developments coming to Great Stirrup Cay, the brand’s private island in the Bahamas and one of its top-rated ports of call.
Launching in Q4 2025 to coincide with the completion of a new multi-ship pier, the refreshed destination will include:
- A large heated pool with swim-up bar
- A dedicated splash zone for kids
- A new Vibe Beach Club with cabanas and adults-only amenities
- Horizon Park with lawn games and shaded hangout zones
- Hammock-filled relaxation areas
- Tiki-inspired experiences still under wraps
Herrera described the developments as the first of “many more” upgrades to come, reaffirming NCL’s aim to deliver “more of what guests love.”
Eric Stonestreet’s godfather moment
“It is a very special time for all of us at NCL,” said Herrera. “We are welcoming a new incredible ship into our fleet…and we are doing so alongside her godfather, Eric Stonestreet, who perfectly embodies the authenticity of what it means for our guests to ‘Experience More at Sea.’”
Stonestreet added: “The team at Norwegian Cruise Line, onboard and ashore, are the very best of the best, and I am honoured to serve as the godfather of the beautiful Norwegian Aqua.”
“As a new cruiser who has a deep passion for travel, it is absolutely spectacular to see the amazing features and experiences that travellers and their families can enjoy aboard Norwegian Aqua, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster!”
Where Norwegian Aqua is headed
Following the ceremony, Norwegian Aqua departed on its christening voyage and will be homeported in Port Canaveral for a season of seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings until August 2025. Ports of call include Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), and Great Stirrup Cay.
From August to October 2025, the ship will operate five- and seven-day Bermuda cruises from New York City, before returning to Miami for another Eastern Caribbean season from October 2025 to April 2026.
The More At Sea™ offer
The launch of Norwegian Aqua coincides with NCL’s enhanced onboard inclusions under the More At Sea™ program. The offer includes:
- Unlimited open bar (premium brands)
- Specialty dining credits
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Shore excursion credits
- Free third and fourth guests on select sailings
The program is available across the fleet and adds extra value for agents selling multigenerational and family cruise holidays.
KARRYON UNPACKS: NCL is pushing hard into the family cruise space with Norwegian Aqua and its private island refresh. For Australian agents, the value message is clear: with More At Sea™ perks, new entertainment, and an upgraded destination, NCL is stacking commissionable selling points for Caribbean-bound clients—especially those travelling with kids or in groups.
