Norwegian Cruise Line takes delivery of Norwegian Aqua, celebrates float out for Luna

Norwegian Cruise Line has taken delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the 20th ship in its fleet and the first in the Prima Plus class, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.

On the same day, Norwegian Luna reached a key construction milestone, floating out from its dry dock, which marks the completion of the ship’s exterior work and its first contact with water.

Norwegian Luna will now move to the floating dock previously occupied by Norwegian Aqua for interior construction ahead of its launch in spring 2026.

“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,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line.

“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 for the whole family,” he added. “[Norwegian Aqua will] cruise 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.”

Building on the Prima class, Norwegian Aqua is 10 per cent larger than its predecessors, designed to offer more space, service, and entertainment options. At 156,300 gross tons and carrying 3,571 guests at double occupancy, the ship introduces new features while retaining signature elements such as spacious staterooms, extensive outdoor areas, and a focus on ocean views.

One of the ship’s highlights is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first combination rollercoaster and waterslide, as well as the Aqua Game Zone, an interactive entertainment space featuring retro arcade and virtual reality games. The vessel also features Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor that transitions into a nightclub in the evening.

Dining options include new and returning venues such as Sukhothai, Cagney’s Steakhouse, and Le Bistro, while Indulge Food Hall now features Planterie, a new eatery serving plant-based bowls and healthy options.

Evening entertainment will include ‘Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,’ a theatrical concert-style show developed in partnership with Prince Legacy and Primary Wave Music, and ‘Elements: The World Expanded,’ an enhanced version of Norwegian Cruise Line’s highest-rated production, combining acrobatics, magic, and special effects inspired by earth, air, water, and fire.

The delivery of Norwegian Aqua and float out of Norwegian Luna, builds on a growing partnership between the cruise line and Fincantieri, which is also building the line’s new as-yet-unnamed class of ships, which will be the largest to date, comparable to Carnival’s Excel class, MSC Cruises’ World class, and Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class.

“Norwegian Aqua is a testament to the solid and enduring partnership between Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri, recently reaffirmed by the historic order of the four largest ships ever built by our group for the brand,” said Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager, Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri.

“This ship embodies our shared commitment to technological innovation and excellence, marking another milestone in a thriving cruise industry where Fincantieri continues to lead the way,” he added.

After a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey from Southampton on March 28, 2025, arriving in the United States on April 4, 2025, for events in Boston and New York. The ship will be officially christened in Miami on April 13, 2025, with Norwegian Cruise Line brand ambassador and Norwegian Aqua godfather, Eric Stonestreet. The Emmy Award-winning actor is best known for his role as Cameron Tucker in Modern Family.

During its first year, Norwegian Aqua will sail from Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York, offering short cruises to the Bahamas and seven-day Caribbean itineraries, including stops in Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and Great Stirrup Cay. The island, a private Norwegian Cruise Line destination, will become even more accessible in late 2025 with the addition of a new pier.

From August to September 2025, Norwegian Aqua will sail five- to seven-day Bermuda cruises from New York, featuring overnight stays to allow guests more time to explore the island’s golf courses, culture, and natural attractions.