Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri Commemorate Launch of New Ship, Norwegian Aqua™

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Fincantieri, the renowned Italian shipbuilding company, have celebrated the float out of Norwegian Aqua™, the inaugural vessel of the expanded Prima Plus Class. This milestone event took place at Fincantieri's shipyard in Marghera (Venice), Italy, marking a significant achievement in the vessel's construction journey and its first contact with water.

The launch of Norwegian Aqua signals the conclusion of external construction, paving the way for its anticipated debut in April 2025. In accordance with maritime tradition, two ceremonial coins were welded into the ship, symbolizing ancient offerings to sea deities for blessings and safe voyages.

With a gross tonnage of 156,300 and a length of 1,056 feet, Norwegian Aqua boasts a 10% increase in size compared to its predecessors. Innovative features include the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, a digital sports complex named Glow Court, and NCL’s most expansive outdoor promenade, Ocean Boulevard. Luxurious accommodations in The Haven by Norwegian® will also be available, including the debut of Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.

Construction on Norwegian Aqua continues as it prepares for its debut in April 2025, offering seven-day Caribbean itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, Fla. The ship will visit tropical destinations such as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas. Subsequent voyages will include routes to Bermuda from New York City and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami.

David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, expressed excitement about the partnership with Fincantieri, highlighting their role in enhancing guest experiences. He emphasized the expanded offerings and beautifully designed venues aboard Norwegian Aqua, building upon the success of previous vessels in the Prima Class.