The Norwegian AQUA

A perfect way to spoil yourself and your family.

While I’ve had the pleasure of sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line many times – more than 2 dozen cruises! – my recent trip marked a very special first: my debut on a Prima-class ship, the magnificent Norwegian Aqua!

Now, you might be thinking, “2 Dozen NCL sailings? What more could he possibly be excited about?” Well, my friends, let me assure you, the Aqua is a game-changer, and I’m here to tell you why your next family or multi-generational trip absolutely needs to be on this ship!

A Breath of Fresh Air: Open Spaces Galore!

One of the first things that struck me about the Norwegian Aqua, and indeed the entire Prima class, is the sheer amount of open space. If you’ve ever felt a little “cooped up” on a cruise ship, this is the vessel for you!

Ocean Boulevard: Imagine strolling along a magnificent 360-degree promenade, feeling the sea breeze, and taking in endless ocean views. That’s Ocean Boulevard! It’s not just a walk around the ship; it’s an experience in itself, lined with inviting seating areas, cozy lounges, and even al fresco dining options. I found myself gravitating here constantly, whether to read a book, enjoy a quiet coffee, or simply watch the waves go by. This is a game-changer for families, offering so much room for everyone to spread out, find their own little slice of paradise, and reconnect with the sea. For multi-generational trips, it means Grandma and Grandpa can enjoy a peaceful moment, while the grandkids are off exploring other parts of the ship, yet everyone can easily meet up for a pre-dinner stroll.
Infinity Pools and Hot Tubs: The Aqua takes relaxation to another level with its stunning infinity pools and hot tubs. Perched right at the edge of the ship, they offer breathtaking, unobstructed views of the horizon. It’s truly a luxurious experience, perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun.

A Feast for All Senses: Indulge Food Hall

Prepare your taste buds, because the Indulge Food Hall on the Norwegian Aqua is a culinary dream come true! This isn’t your average buffet, folks. Think of it as a chic, upscale food market with a dizzying array of international cuisines, all served up fresh and made to order.

Something for Everyone: This is where the Aqua truly shines for families and multi-generational groups. Does your picky eater only want a burger? No problem! Is Aunt Carol craving Indian? Done! Do the teens want tacos? Absolutely! With options ranging from Indian to Italian, BBQ to Asian noodles, and even a brand-new plant-based eatery called Planterie, every single member of your group will find something to delight their palate. The best part? Indulge Food Hall is complimentary!
Effortless Dining: You simply grab a seat at one of the stylish tables, a cozy bar stool, or even a swinging chair, and order from a tablet. Your delicious dishes are then brought directly to your table. It’s casual, it’s convenient, and it makes dining with a diverse group an absolute breeze. No more arguments over where to eat – just happy bellies all around! I particularly loved trying a little bit of everything, from the savory delights to the sweet temptations at Coco’s (though that one does have a small upcharge, trust me, it’s worth it for their incredible gelato!).

Fun for All Ages: Activities Galore!

Beyond the relaxation and the delicious food, the Norwegian Aqua is packed with activities that cater to every age and energy level, ensuring everyone in your family or multi-generational group has an absolute blast.

Aqua Slidecoaster: Thrill-seekers, rejoice! The Aqua Slidecoaster is the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea. It’s a dual-slide experience that will have you screaming with delight (in a good way!).
Glow Court: Get ready for some high-tech fun at the Glow Court, an LED sports floor that transforms for different games by day and into an energetic club by night. It’s perfect for some friendly competition!
Aqua Game Zone: From retro arcade classics like Ms. Pacman and Mario Bros. to interactive darts and even high-tech mini-golf, the Aqua Game Zone is a multi-generational playground. It’s a fantastic spot for families to bond over some good old-fashioned (and new-fashioned!) gaming.
Kids and Teen Programs: Of course, NCL hasn’t forgotten about the younger cruisers. Splash Academy for the little ones (ages 3-12) offers a ton of supervised activities, while Entourage provides a cool, independent space for teens (ages 13-17) to hang out and make new friends. This means parents and grandparents can enjoy some well-deserved adult time, knowing the kids are having a fantastic and safe experience.

Adults Only: Retreats for Relaxation and Rejuvenation

For those moments when you want to escape the hustle and bustle and truly relax, the Norwegian Aqua offers some fantastic adults-only havens:

Vibe Beach Club: This is an exclusive oasis at the very top of the ship, offering panoramic ocean views, luxurious loungers, and even two infinity hot tubs. It’s a tranquil escape where you can bask in the sun, enjoy a refreshing drink from the dedicated bar, and truly feel like you’re floating on the ocean. Access to Vibe Beach Club is a pre-purchased add-on, and it’s absolutely worth it for the serene atmosphere and attentive service. Imagine sipping a frosty cocktail, book in hand, with nothing but the endless blue in front of you – pure bliss!
Mandara Spa & Thermal Suite: If deep relaxation is what you crave, the Mandara Spa on Aqua is a sanctuary. Beyond a wide array of rejuvenating treatments (think massages, facials, and even medi-spa options), the Thermal Suite is a true gem. This area boasts a vitality pool, a flotation salt pool, a steam room, a salt room, an ice room, a charcoal sauna, and even the first clay sauna at sea! It’s a holistic wellness experience that will leave you feeling completely refreshed and re-energized. And yes, there are dedicated men’s and women’s locker rooms, but the main relaxation areas are co-ed.
Bars and Lounges Galore: While many bars are open to all, some naturally lend themselves to a more adult vibe, especially in the evenings. The Norwegian Aqua truly excels here with a plethora of choices:
- Swirl Wine Bar: A cozy and intimate spot perfect for wine enthusiasts to explore varietals from around the world.
- Whiskey Bar: For those who appreciate a fine dram, this bar offers a sophisticated ambiance and a wide selection of whiskeys.
- Belvedere Bar & Metropolitan Bar: These often feature live music and offer a sophisticated setting for crafted cocktails.
- The Local Bar & Grill: While serving food, it’s also a fantastic pub-style setting to grab a beer, catch a game, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Ship Entertainment: Broadway-Style, Comedy, and Live Music!

When the sun goes down, the Norwegian Aqua truly comes alive with a spectacular array of entertainment that will keep every adult thoroughly entertained. NCL is known for its incredible shows, and the Aqua takes it to the next level:

Aqua Theater & Club: This innovative, three-story venue transforms from a state-of-the-art theater by night into a vibrant Vegas-style nightclub!
- “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince”: Get ready to dance and sing along to the iconic hits of Prince in this brand-new, immersive tribute show. It’s a high-energy, concert-like experience that truly honors the Purple One. I was absolutely blown away by the talent and the electrifying atmosphere!
- “Elements: The World Expanded”: A revamped and enhanced version of one of NCL’s highest-rated shows, this production blends acrobatics, magic, and intrigue, drawing inspiration from earth, wind, water, and fire. It’s a dazzling display that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Nightclub Programming: After the main shows, the Aqua Theater & Club transforms with themed parties like “90s Party,” “Livin’ La Vida Loca” (Latin jams!), and “Pop Life,” ensuring the dance floor is always buzzing.
“The Improv at Sea” Comedy Club: Who doesn’t love a good laugh? The Aqua features an expanded comedy club with more seating, bringing top-notch comedians onboard to tickle your funny bone. It’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy some adult humor.
“Syd Norman’s Presents: Rumours”: If you’re a fan of classic rock, you must catch this Fleetwood Mac tribute experience. Due to its immense popularity on other NCL ships, they’ve moved this show into the larger Aqua Theater to accommodate more fans. It’s a concert experience that delves into the album’s backstory, and it’s truly fantastic.
Live Music Throughout the Ship: Beyond the main shows, you’ll find live music in various lounges and bars around the ship. From soothing jazz to lively pop hits and classic rock, there’s always a place to enjoy some tunes, whether you want to listen quietly or get up and dance. The Glow Court, which is a sports court by day, transforms into a dynamic nightclub by night with DJs spinning tunes.

It is safe to say, my first sailing on the Norwegian Aqua was fantastic and I can’t wait to sail on her again. The ship has all of the wonderful restaurants and experiences that we have come to love across the Norwegian brand and they have taken it up a notch on the Aqua. The thoughtful design, the emphasis on open spaces, the incredible Indulge Food Hall, and the diverse range of activities, coupled with dedicated adult retreats and world-class entertainment, make this ship a perfect choice for families seeking both togetherness and individual exploration, as well as for multi-generational groups looking for a vacation that truly offers something for everyone.

So, if you’re ready to make new waves and create unforgettable memories, let’s talk about getting you on board the Norwegian Aqua!

Travel often and Travel well my friends!

A Simple Life Travel LLC