Norwegian Cruise Line Marks Milestone with Float Out of Norwegian Aqua™

Norwegian Cruise Line, in partnership with Fincantieri, celebrated the float out of the first ship in their expanded Prima Plus Class, the Norwegian Aqua™, from Marghera, Italy.

Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri, the renowned Italian shipbuilding company, have reached a significant construction milestone with the float out of the Norwegian Aqua™, the first vessel of the new Prima Plus Class. The ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera (Venice), Italy, marking the ship’s first contact with water—a pivotal step in maritime traditions.

Celebrating Innovation and Partnership

Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division, expressed his enthusiasm about the event. "This float out not only represents a significant milestone in our long-standing partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line but also reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and elevating industry standards through innovation," Matarazzo said. The construction of Norwegian Aqua™ will continue until its debut in April 2025.

The ship is scheduled to sail seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, including stops in the Dominican Republic, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island in the Bahamas. Following its Caribbean season, Norwegian Aqua will transition to offering voyages to Bermuda from New York City, and later, Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami.

A New Era in Cruise Experiences

David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, highlighted the enhanced guest experiences onboard. "The Norwegian Aqua will be 10% larger than its predecessors in the Prima Class, allowing for more innovative offerings like the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, and the most expansive 360-degree outdoor promenade, Ocean Boulevard," Herrera noted.

The ship’s design includes several new features aimed at enhancing guest interaction and enjoyment. Among them is a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, known as Glow Court, and luxurious accommodations in The Haven by Norwegian®, which features the first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.

Traditional Maritime Ceremonies

In keeping with maritime tradition, the float out ceremony included the welding of two ceremonial coins into the structure of Norwegian Aqua™. These coins are a nod to ancient maritime customs, symbolizing good luck and safe passage. The event also featured a blessing by a local chaplain and the celebratory breaking of champagne across the ship's hull, commemorating this milestone.

Mark Kansley, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations at Norwegian Cruise Line, commented on the evolving brand experience. "The Prima Class and the new Prima Plus Class offer an intimate and varied environment for our guests, enhancing their vacation experiences with every cruise," said Kansley.

The float out of Norwegian Aqua™ not only marks a significant achievement for Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri but also signals a new chapter in luxury cruise offerings, promising more space, innovation, and elevated guest experiences for future travelers.