The world of cruising is on the brink of another ground-breaking evolution, Norwegian Aqua, and The Sandton Times is thrilled to be at the forefront of this momentous occasion in Venice, Italy.

• In a few short weeks, The Sandton Times will be joining Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the all-new Norwegian Aqua.
• This vessel promises to redefine luxury and innovation at sea, and we’re gearing up to bring you an in-depth look at what will soon be one of the most talked-about ships in the cruising industry.
• The first ship of the expanded Prima Plus Class is set to debut in April 2025.
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We’re told the Norwegian Aqua is no ordinary ship – it represents a pivotal step forward in NCL’s ongoing drive to enhance the cruising experience. As the first vessel in the Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua builds on the success of its sister ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, with a 10% increase in space, allowing for even more expansive outdoor areas, luxurious accommodations, and innovative experiences. This ship isn’t just bigger—it’s introducing exciting new features that will set it apart from anything that has come before.

The Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first-ever hybrid roller-coaster and water-slide, is one of the most anticipated features on Norwegian Aqua. This thrilling attraction will offer passengers an adrenaline-pumping experience unlike any other at sea. Paired with the Glow Court, a state-of-the-art digital sports complex that transforms into a nightclub after dark, Norwegian Aqua is poised to offer a blend of high-energy activities and laid-back luxury, catering to every type of traveller.

Our upcoming visit to the Fincantieri shipyard in Venice, Italy, where Norwegian Aqua is being constructed, is a rare experience. This behind-the-scenes tour will provide a unique glimpse into the early stages of a ship that is set to become a game-changer in the cruising world. We’ll have the chance to walk the decks of Norwegian Aqua before they’re completed, witnessing first-hand the craftsmanship and innovation that goes into building such a revolutionary vessel.

As the shipyard buzzes with activity, we’ll be guided by NCL’s leadership team, gaining insights into the design and construction processes that are bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, from the expansive Ocean Boulevard promenade to the luxurious Haven suites. The ship’s accommodations are also set to impress, with the introduction of NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites. These opulent two-story suites will offer unparalleled luxury, with expansive living areas, multiple bathrooms, and breath-taking ocean views.

While Norwegian Aqua is still in its construction phase, the excitement for its debut is already building. April 2025 will see the ship set sail on its inaugural Caribbean voyage. Departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, Norwegian Aqua will offer a series of seven-day itineraries to some of the Caribbean’s most picturesque destinations, including Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.

But the journey doesn’t end there. After its Caribbean season, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a series of voyages to Bermuda from New York City, followed by Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami. Each of these voyages will offer passengers the chance to experience the ship’s cutting-edge features and luxurious amenities while exploring some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

As The Sandton Times gears up for this exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Norwegian Aqua, we’re excited to share our journey with you, offering a first-hand account of the creation of Norwegian Aqua and a preview of the unforgettable experiences that await aboard this revolutionary vessel.

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