Norwegian Cruise Line has just taken delivery of its 20th ship, Norwegian Aqua, in Italy and made a splash with Norwegian Luna’s float-out ceremony ahead of her 2026 launch.
One of 2025’s most anticipated new ships, Norwegian Aqua is NCL’s first Prima Plus Class ship and the next-generation vessel is 10 per cent larger in size and capacity.
She will show off her innovations during a series of inaugural European sailings before embarking on a transatlantic journey from Southampton, UK on 28 March 2025, arriving in the US on 4 April for two events in Boston and NYC.
On 13 April 2025, the ship will be officially christened in Miami in a celebratory ceremony with NCL brand ambassador and Norwegian Aqua godfather Eric Stonestreet.
During her first year of service, Aqua will sail from Miami, Port Canaveral (Orlando) and NYC, setting sail to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from the Florida ports and from NYC to Bermuda during August and September 2025.
NCL President David J. Herrera said: “Norwegian Aqua is more than just a ship – it’s a commitment to our guests that we will continue to push boundaries and deliver more at sea.”
“From thrilling attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster to the debut of Sukhothai, our first Thai specialty restaurant, Norwegian Aqua is designed to create unforgettable moments while cruising to the Caribbean, Bermuda and our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, where we remain focused and excited about investing in the guest experience.”
Norwegian Luna will move to the floating dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua for interior construction and furnishing in preparation for the ship’s launch in April 2026.
“We are deeply grateful to Fincantieri for its partnership and expertise in bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, paving the way for NCL’s continued growth and success. And with Norwegian Luna’s float-out, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter of our fleet expansion,” Herrera said.
For more info, head to ncl.com
