Norwegian Cruise Line has officially welcomed Norwegian Aqua to its new homeport in Miami, marking the start of the ship’s winter season of Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, including regular stops at the line’s signature private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
The arrival follows Norwegian Aqua’s inaugural season of Bermuda sailings from New York. Beginning this month and running through April 2026, the ship will operate round-trip seven-day itineraries to some of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations, sailing from Miami — long considered the Cruise Capital of the World.
Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, called the ship’s arrival in Miami a homecoming.
“We are delighted to welcome Norwegian Aqua to her new homeport in Miami, the city where NCL originated and continues to play a significant role in our history even today with our headquarters here,” Sommer said in a statement. “As our newest ship in Miami, now is the perfect time for guests to book their next tropical getaway to the Caribbean and Bahamas for a vacation filled with exhilarating and relaxing onboard activities for the whole family, while visiting beautiful destinations – including our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay.”
Through April 2026, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day itineraries to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and Great Stirrup Cay. The private island will unveil major upgrades in late 2025, including a new pier, a 28,000-square-foot heated pool with swim-up bars, and a kids’ splash zone designed to appeal to families and adventure seekers alike.
The ship will return to Miami in October 2026 for another Caribbean season through April 2027, with itineraries that include the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark, a six-acre aquatic attraction debuting in summer 2026.
Norwegian Aqua is 10 percent larger than her sister ships Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, with expanded capacity and a roster of new attractions. One of the highlights is the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, which spans three decks and offers two unique ride courses. The ship also introduces the Glow Court, an LED-floor digital sports complex that transitions into a nightclub after dark, and a redesigned Aqua Game Zone with both virtual reality experiences and classic arcade games.
Active travelers will find an outdoor sports complex called The Stadium, along with The Drop, a dramatic 10-story dry slide. The Bull’s Eye Bar blends interactive darts with a lively social atmosphere, while families can spend time together at the expanded pool deck and new arcade spaces.
For guests seeking a more tranquil experience, Aqua offers the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, with ocean-view cabanas and plush loungers, as well as the Mandara Spa and Salon, which features saunas, treatments, and other indulgent wellness options.
The ship has 17 restaurants and 18 bars and lounges, from casual poolside dining to upscale specialty venues. Entertainment includes “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” an immersive show honoring the music legend, along with the visual spectacular “Elements: The World Expanded.” Guests can also participate in interactive productions such as “The Price Is Right LIVE.”
Caitlin Sullivan
2025-10-07 21:55:00