We've Been Onboard Norwegian Aqua!

• Thrills at Sea: Discover the world’s first Aqua Slidecoaster and the expansive Vibe Beach Club for the ultimate balance of energy and relaxation.

• Global Gastronomy: Navigate 17 diverse dining options, including the interactive Indulge Food Hall and the vibrant Mexican flavours of Los Lobos.

• Designed for All Ages: Explore the age-specific zones of Splash Academy and the high-tech Entourage teen lounge, ensuring every family member is entertained.

Sleek, modern, and packed with next-level amenities, Norwegian Aqua is a floating resort that redefines what it means to cruise in style. As part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s prestigious Prima Class, this ship invites guests to discover the sea through elevated dining, spacious accommodation, and one-of-a-kind water features.

Cruise.co.uk Customer Support Executive, Charlene Alexander, joined the inaugural sailing to find out what it is really like to sail on one of the most anticipated vessels in the fleet. Here are her highlights...

Norwegian Aqua Inaugural Sailing, 25th-28th March 2025

Day 1 - Embarkation & First Impressions

After a quick and easy check-in, I was welcomed onboard Norwegian Aqua with a choice of stylish, modern bars and comfy seating areas. The drinks menu featured a tempting list of cocktails, and it was great to see alcohol-free options, including 0% cocktails, wines, and beers, available for all guests.

Following a simple muster drill (confirming we knew how to inflate a life jacket), we headed up on deck to soak up the sun and admire the eye-catching Aqua Slide Coasters- rollercoasters and waterslides combined!

Our balcony cabin was spacious, with plenty of power outlets, including Euro, US, and USB ports. The bathroom was roomy and well-designed. As expected with American cruise lines, there were no in-cabin tea or coffee facilities.

Dinner was at Hudson’s, one of the complimentary dining venues, and the food was superb. The relaxed, carefree atmosphere onboard, paired with casual dress, was a welcome change. With 17 dining options available, guests certainly won’t be short for choice onboard!

Unfortunately, we missed the “Prince” show at the theatre this evening, which we heard was incredible and a must-see for future guests.

Day 2 - Entertainment, Dining, & Kids Clubs

This morning, we tried The Local Bar & Grill for breakfast. While the venue had a trendy vibe, I was a little underwhelmed by the food, and it was slightly disappointing that oat milk wasn’t an option for hot drinks here. However, for coffee lovers, there is a Starbucks onboard, but it’s not included in the “More at Sea” drinks package.

We then toured the kids' facilities, including Splash Academy (ages 3–12), which is split into age-appropriate zones:

• Guppies (6 months-2 years), for babies and parents

• Turtles (3-5 years)

• Seals (6-9 years)

• Dolphins (10-12 years)

For teens (13+), Entourage is a gaming paradise filled with PlayStation 5 consoles.

The open plan design makes it easy for siblings of different ages to enjoy the space together. Opening times for these facilities are: 9 am-12 pm; 2-5 pm; and 7-10 pm. They are closed during lunch and dinner hours.

Today, we also got to tour The Haven suites, including the Penthouse and three-bed Duplex. One possible drawback is the large waterslide structure situated right outside the balcony, which may obstruct the view for some Haven guests.

Lunch was at the vibrant but slightly chaotic Indulge Food Hall, where you order via a small iPad at your table. Drinks, however, had to be ordered separately through the waitstaff.

Pre-dinner drinks were enjoyed at The Metropolitan Bar, which offers an extensive cocktail menu. As we couldn’t get a large table at Cagney’s Steakhouse for dinner tonight (a popular speciality restaurant onboard), we opted for Los Lobos instead, a dining venue serving Mexican cuisine. I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the tableside guacamole and the fun, engaging staff.

The highlight of the evening was the “Rumours” Fleetwood Mac tribute show; this was absolutely fantastic, with incredible vocalists!

Day 3 - Exploring Bruges & Final Thoughts

During our port day in Bruges, we chose to try the “Bruges at Your Own Pace” excursion. While I initially thought we wouldn’t have enough time, it turned out to be plenty, and we returned by 3:30 pm with ample time until sailing away from port. We then spent the afternoon relaxing at Vibe Beach Club, a serene, sun-soaked space with plenty of daybeds.

Just inside the entrance to this is Surfside Café, serving up burgers, hot dogs, wraps, chips, and even soft-serve ice cream- perfect for enjoying on a sunbed outdoors!

For our final dinner this evening, we returned to Hudson’s, where the food was once again outstanding.

Having never sailed with Norwegian Cruise Line before, it was a real pleasure to be part of this inaugural event. It gave me valuable insight into what the cruise line has to offer. Norwegian Aqua is a stylish, relaxed, and feature-packed ship with something for everyone!