Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) officially christened its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, at PortMiami with a ceremony led by godfather and Emmy® Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet. The event also spotlighted sweeping new plans for Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas, with major expansions set to launch in late 2025.
The christening featured a blessing of the vessel, remarks from key NCL leaders, and a preview of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” an exclusive theatrical concert at sea.
Stonestreet, calling the ship “spectacular,” highlighted its standout features including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster.
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At 156,300 gross tons and over 1,050 feet long, Norwegian Aqua boosts capacity by 10% over its predecessors, offering new experiences like the Glow Court digital sports complex and the Aqua Game Zone, along with NCL’s most spacious accommodations to date. Dining onboard includes the debut Thai restaurant, Sukhothai, and plant-based eatery, Planterie.
NCL also announced a full reimagining of Great Stirrup Cay. Enhancements include an oversized heated pool with a swim-up bar, a kids’ splash zone, a new Vibe Beach Club for adults, and Horizon Park for families. Guests will also enjoy a new welcome center, tram service, and extended onboard experiences on shore.
Following its inaugural sailing, Norwegian Aqua will begin Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral before shifting to Bermuda voyages from New York in late 2025. It will return to Miami in October for a full season of Caribbean sailings through April 2026.
As part of NCL’s new More At Sea™ program, guests benefit from a value-packed offer including unlimited premium open bar, specialty dining, high-speed Wi-Fi, shore excursion credits, and more—with added perks like free airfare for a second guest and kids sail free on select sailings.
For more information, visit www.ncl.com.
Source: Norwegian Cruise Line Christens Norwegian Aqua in Miami and Announces Expansion of Great Stirrup Cay
