There’s something special about stepping aboard a brand-new cruise ship, and Norwegian Aqua, the latest addition to Norwegian Cruise Line’s ever-expanding fleet, was nothing short of remarkable. From the moment I set foot on the ship, I could sense that this was going to be a unlike any other. Despite a few weather-related delays, the experience was packed with fantastic dining, world-class entertainment, and exciting new features that truly set Aqua apart.
Embarkation Process – A Slight Delay, but Worth the Wait
The journey began in Lisbon, where, unfortunately, the ship’s arrival was delayed due to bad weather. While this was a small inconvenience, it turned into an unexpected opportunity to explore Lisbon a little longer. With a few hours to spare, I wandered through the city’s charming streets and enjoyed a delicious lunch at a small café before making my way back to the port.
Once Norwegian Aqua arrived, embarkation was slightly longer than usual, but the NCL team handled it smoothly, keeping guests well-informed and ensuring a stress-free boarding process. Before long we stepped aboard this stunning new ship and got to enjoy everything she has to offer.
My Home at Sea – A Cozy and Stylish Retreat
I had the pleasure of staying in a BF-Grade Balcony cabin on deck 9. When I opened the door, I was greeted by a modern, luxurious space that instantly felt both welcoming and homely. The décor was sleek and sophisticated.
The cabin had a sofa area, which provided a perfect little corner to relax with a book or catch up on emails. Speaking of which, the Wi-Fi onboard was more than adequate, allowing me to stay connected and get some work done when needed. The balcony, though slightly underused due to the wet and windy weather, had the potential to be an incredible space for morning coffee or evening cocktail. I could only imagine how perfect it would be in better conditions.
A Ship Designed for Elegance and Space
Having previously sailed on Norwegian Prima, I was curious to see how Norwegian Aqua’s slightly larger design (10% bigger, to be exact) would compare. The difference was immediately noticeable. The extra space created a more open and airy environment, especially in the exterior areas, where guests had more room to lounge and unwind.
The pool deck was particularly impressive, with expanded areas for loungers and tables, making it the ideal spot for an afternoon drink…. or two. The entire ship felt like a step forward for NCL, with a fresh modern décor that blended style with comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere at every turn.
A Culinary Experience to Remember
One of the standout aspects of my trip was the incredible dining experience onboard. Every meal felt like an occasion, and the variety of restaurants ensured that there was something to suit every mood and craving.
The main dining rooms, Hudson’s and the Commodore Room, both offered exceptional meals, but the Commodore Room stood out for me with its stylish, intimate ambiance.
When it came to specialty dining, I was able to try Onda by Scarpetta and Sukhothai. Onda’s Italian dishes looked so good that we couldn’t resist ordering extra plates to share. Meanwhile, Sukhothai transported us straight to Thailand with its authentic flavours, adding an exciting new dimension to NCL’s culinary offerings.
While onboard we had the benefit of NCL’s drinks package, which not only provided a fantastic selection but also their menus clearly indicated which drinks were included or not, eliminating any confusion when ordering. All of the bar areas offered a great selection of drinks with staff providing friendly and attentive service.
World-Class Entertainment That Captivates
Entertainment has always been one of NCL’s strong suits, and Norwegian Aqua took it to another level. One of the most exciting venues onboard was Syd Norman’s, a beloved favourite from Prima & Viva that delivered an intimate, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll experience. The house band was phenomenally talented, making it a must-visit spot every evening.
The main theatre also offered a fantastic lineup of productions. Rumours, a tribute to Fleetwood Mac, was a particular highlight, bringing the legendary band’s music to life while also offering insights into their journey over the years. But if there was one show that truly stood out, it was the new show, Revolution, a thrilling celebration of Prince’s iconic music. With interactive stage movements, guests could get right up close to the performers on Deck 6, creating an electrifying, immersive experience.
Fitness & Recreation – Fun for Every Energy Level
For those who love to stay active, Norwegian Aqua provided an abundance of options. The gym was state-of-the-art, outfitted with the latest Technogym equipment and boasting breathtaking views from the front of the ship providing an inspiring setting for a morning workout.
Beyond the gym, the ship offered a huge variety of recreational activities. I was amazed at the selection, which included pickleball, interactive darts, crazy golf, table tennis, shuffleboard, and table football among others. One of the coolest new features was the Glow Court, an LED-powered interactive sports area that brought an extra level of fun to traditional games like football and basketball.
But perhaps the most exciting addition was the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide. Sadly, due to the rough weather, I wasn’t able to experience it firsthand. This just gives me another reason to return!
Final Thoughts – An Unforgettable Voyage
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, my time onboard Norwegian Aqua was nothing short of extraordinary. This ship is a fantastic addition to NCL’s fleet, seamlessly blending sophistication, innovation, and fun. From the elevated dining experiences to the top-tier entertainment and expansive recreational options, there was never a dull moment.
What I love most about NCL is their ability to create an atmosphere that is both relaxed and luxurious, ensuring that every guest, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends feels right at home.
I can’t wait for the chance to sail onboard Norwegian Aqua again, hopefully under sunnier skies, so I can fully appreciate all the incredible outdoor spaces this remarkable ship has to offer.