Norwegian Aqua Debuts From Port Canaveral, Florida
The brand-new Norwegian Aqua, the first in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Plus class of ships, has officially set sail from her homeport for the next few months, bringing her innovative style and outstanding attractions to the Space Coast.
The 156,000-gross ton ship sailed into Port Canaveral on Saturday, April 26, 2025 to great fanfare and eagerly awaiting cruise guests.
“We are so thrilled to have Norwegian Aqua homeport in Port Canaveral for her inaugural season of Caribbean voyages,” said David J. Herrera, Norwegian Cruise Line president.
“Launching just in time for summer, Norwegian Aqua is designed to offer fun-in-the-sun voyages year-round with outdoor activities for guests looking for thrills, or who simply want to chill. We’re excited to have her begin her cruise journey with our partners at Port Canaveral!”
Through mid-August, Norwegian Aqua will be offering 7-night Caribbean itineraries from the award-winning homeport, alongside ships from Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises.
“We have a great partnership with NCL and are excited to welcome Norwegian Aqua to our homeport fleet,” said Captain John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO.
“Port Canaveral is the ideal homeport for this new Prima-Plus class ship, especially with more guests driving in to take advantage of our easy in/easy out access. Our team looks forward to providing NCL’s guests with the customer-focused experience that has made our Port a cruise industry leader.”
Each sailing will visit Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island destination in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, as well as St. Thomas, Tortola, and Puerto Plata.
Christened just two weeks ago in Miami, Norwegian Aqua is already getting around. The ship has made her inaugural transatlantic crossing from Southampton, and from Miami, has already visited Nassau.
Following her next several months sailing from Florida, the ship will move to New York to offer Bermuda sailings from the Big Apple, before returning to Miami in October for more Caribbean itineraries.
What to Look Forward to on the Brand New Ship
It is the attractions onboard that may be even more exciting than Norwegian Aqua‘s destinations, however. The phenomenal Aqua Slidecoaster is gaining more attention every day as the world’s first hybrid waterslide and roller coaster.
The smooth, powerful launch propels guests and their rafts to the top of the dual slides, which then race up, down, and around three decks before the watery finish.
Of course, for travelers who don’t much enjoy either rollercoasters or watersides, Norwegian Aqua has much more to enjoy. The Glow Court is a digital, interactive sports court for high-energy fun, while retro gamers will appreciate the arcade featuring Ms. Pacman and Mario Brothers alongside other classic games like Skeeball.
For phenomenal entertainment, guests will want to grab a seat for “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” and its concert-like immersion with the top hits like “Purple Rain” “When Doves Cry” and “1999” to enjoy.
The interactive game show “Price is Right LIVE” is also featured onboard the newest Norwegian cruise ship, along with other shows, live music, comedy acts, and more.
Foodies will also find flavorful fun onboard with 17 unique dining venues, including the specialty Thai restaurant, Sukhothai. The 10-station food hall, Indulge, is a unique dining experience and includes the cruise line’s first-ever plant-based eatery.
Read Also: I Tried Out the First Prima Plus Class Cruise Ship, Norwegian Aqua
Prefer a relaxing vibe to your cruise vacation? You’ll love to spend time at the Mandara Spa and Salon, including in the stunning thermal suite with its ice room, steam room, and clay sauna. The adults-only Vibe Beach Club is among the most spacious in the fleet and is another spot for the ultimate relaxation.
While Norwegian Aqua shares a great deal of characteristics with her sister ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Luna, she is 10% larger in both overall size and guest capacity.
The smooth, clean lines of the ship and her multiple spaces that connect to the sea – the Ocean Boulevard with its glass bridge and infinity pool for example – offer unparalleled spaciousness and phenomenal ocean views for every one of her 3,571 guests to enjoy.