Setting Sail on Norwegian Aqua: A First Look at NCL's Latest Marvel
As a longtime NCL enthusiast celebrating my 10th sailing with the cruise line, I couldn't think of a better way to mark this milestone than aboard the Norwegian Aqua during its inaugural journey from Lisbon to London. Having sailed on eight different NCL vessels across four continents, including both Prima and Viva of the Prima Class, I was eager to see how this latest addition would measure up. After more than a week on board, I can confidently say that the Aqua not only maintains the high standards set by its Prima Class siblings but elevates them even further. While I've noted a few minor critiques, the attention to detail throughout the ship is nothing short of extraordinary, worthy of an Architectural Digest spread.
Revolutionary Features That Set Aqua Apart
The crowning achievement has to be the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world's first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea, or in the world for that matter. Imagine a rollercoaster-waterslide hybrid that includes a long arm mechanism that shoots your tube up a long runway and into a tunnel. The anticipation builds as you ascend, followed by an exhilarating combination of twists, turns, and water features that make it unlike anything else at sea. There are windows and clear bits to the experience that let in lots of bright light. Don’t be confused, this is indeed a waterslide so you will get wet. The tub can accommodate two people and you do a quick weigh-in before boarding the ride.
New Specialty Dining at Sukhothai
Among the new dining venues, Sukhothai stands out as a culinary gem that I was particularly excited to experience. As someone who loves Thai cuisine for its vegetarian options, I was eager to see NCL's take on this beloved cuisine. The restaurant's contemporary Asian design creates an intimate atmosphere that perfectly complements its innovative menu.
The Pad Thai, while on the sweeter side, could benefit from additional lime and peanuts to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. The fish dish came beautifully presented with fresh mango and peppers, though it felt like it needed an extra component to truly shine. Standout dishes included the spicy shrimp appetizer and the Tom Yum soup, which they thoughtfully prepared vegetarian-style. The coconut milk-based broth was outstanding – definitely something I'll order again.
For dessert, the Mango sticky rice was a popular choice, but the real star was the lychee ice cream sorbet. Thanks to NCL's MORE at Sea promotion, guests can now enjoy up to three desserts – a sweet tooth's dream! While the dishes come prepared mild in spice, each table is equipped with chili flakes, vinegar, and other condiments for those seeking more heat. After my experience, I'd rank Sukhothai among my top three restaurants onboard, along with Hasuki and Onda, with enough variety to warrant multiple visits.
The Haven Suite Duplex: Redefining Luxury at Sea
The new Haven Suite Duplex is another feature premiering on the Norwegian Aqua, featuring a two-story layout with three bedrooms and three bathrooms. This luxurious accommodation feels more like an upscale apartment than a cruise ship cabin, with a spacious living area and multiple viewing points for ocean vistas. The thoughtful layout includes premium wood-slatted finishes and expansive windows that maximize the sea views. It's easily one of the most impressive suites I've encountered in my travels at sea. Upgrading to stay in the Haven comes with a slew of other perks like personal concierge, priority boarding and disembarkment, and your own exclusive area of this ship — just to name a few. If I could change anything, I'd love to see a two-story loft-style configuration with the master suite positioned to maximize ocean views, as this would enhance natural light throughout and create a truly dramatic cabin accommodation. Overall I’d love the chance to stay in this cabin with family or friends.
Swirl Wine Bar: A New Favorite Spot
One of my personal highlights has been discovering Swirl, the new wine bar. It is designed with a sort of bright whimsy that I found myself whipping out my phone and camera to capture a picture. The LED-Light design is wrapped around the organic space and stretching out over the ceiling in a topographic style. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration, offering an expertly curated wine selection in a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The sommelier's knowledge and the intimate setting make each visit a delightful experience.
TeeTime: A Mini-Golf Adventure Through World Wonders
Another standout feature on Norwegian Aqua is TeeTime, an innovative 12-hole mini-golf course spanning two decks. This isn't your typical cruise ship mini-golf – each hole is thoughtfully designed around a Wonders of the World theme, incorporating interactive elements and high-tech features that elevate the experience. As I played through the course, I was particularly impressed by how each hole captures the essence of its inspirational landmark, from ancient wonders to modern marvels. The course provides both a fun family activity and a surprisingly engaging challenge for mini-golf enthusiasts. The attention to detail in the theming and course design makes it a must-try attraction that perfectly complements the ship's other innovative offerings.
From the expanded Ocean Boulevard to the stunning infinity pools, every aspect of Norwegian Aqua reflects a deep understanding of what modern cruisers desire. The ship manages to feel both grand and intimate, with spaces that encourage both socializing and peaceful relaxation. This inaugural sailing has made it clear, Norwegian Aqua isn't just another cruise ship, it's a glimpse into the future of ocean travel.
