Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is enhancing its fleet with two new Prima Plus Class ships, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, and turning its focus to South Africa as both a destination and a growing market for cruise travel.

• Aqua and Luna will introduce NCL’s new Aqua Slide Coaster, combining water slide and roller coaster thrills, fully included in the fare.
• Cape Town serves as a key African hub for NCL, drawing international visitors to South Africa’s scenic and cultural offerings.
• Interest from South African travellers is growing, with many exploring popular cruise destinations worldwide from the comfort of a cruise ship.
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) continues to redefine the cruise experience with the introduction of its new Prima Plus Class ships, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, set to join the fleet in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Kevin Bubolz, NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, highlights these innovative ships and their impact on the cruising experience, as well as South Africa’s emerging role as a key destination.

The Prima Plus Class ships mark an exciting expansion in NCL’s Prima line-up, building upon the success of their predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. Kevin explains that Aqua and Luna bring an enhanced experience to the fleet, with these ships being 22 meters longer than the earlier Prima-class models, providing more space to enhance guest offerings.

They are a bit bigger and provide more space, so there’s more room to introduce new amenities and cater to demand.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

Aqua and Luna will accommodate approximately 3’500 passengers each, allowing NCL to meet the increasing interest in cruising while providing guests with added choices and conveniences onboard. The Prima Plus ships have been thoughtfully designed with guest feedback in mind.

Based on feedback from our guests, we’re making certain rooms a bit bigger and relocating popular areas like Cagney’s Steakhouse to accommodate more diners.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

These changes reflect NCL’s commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction, building upon learnings from Prima and Viva. Known for pushing the boundaries in onboard entertainment, NCL is introducing a new, exhilarating feature on Aqua: the Aqua Slide Coaster. This unique attraction combines a water slide with a roller coaster and incorporates a launch system similar to a traditional roller coaster.

The Aqua Slide Coaster is unlike anything else out there. It’s a new experience that doesn’t exist anywhere in the world, and we’re excited to bring it to a cruise ship.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

NCL’s drive for innovation is evident with each ship aiming to offer something truly unique and engaging, and Aqua’s Aqua Slide Coaster promises guests an unforgettable experience at sea, fully included in the cruise fare.

This new addition is part of NCL’s continued focus on crafting entertainment experiences that redefine cruising, following on the success of racetracks on previous ships. The Aqua Slide Coaster will further elevate NCL’s reputation for pioneering onboard thrills, making Aqua a highly anticipated addition to the fleet. With the growing popularity of South Africa as a cruise destination, NCL’s strategy includes not only attracting international travellers to the region but also inspiring South African guests to explore the world by sea. Kevin highlights the growing interest in NCL’s South African cruises, which typically embark from Cape Town and journey along the beautiful southern coast, with options to continue to Mauritius.

Cape Town serves as a fantastic hub for cruises, allowing guests to explore the region while experiencing the comforts of a cruise ship.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

Kevin underscores the unique value of cruising in South Africa.

With a cruise, guests only need to unpack once, yet they wake up in a new port each day. It’s a floating resort that allows travelers to explore multiple destinations with ease.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

South Africa’s natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive option for travelers from the United States, Europe, and Australia, and NCL is tapping into this demand by developing a variety of itineraries in the region.

For international visitors, NCL’s cruises provide a seamless experience with pre- and post-cruise options, allowing travelers to further explore South Africa. Additionally, the country’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and cultural richness have increasingly drawn cruisers, with many extending their stays to fully experience all that South Africa has to offer.

The appeal of cruising is growing among South African travelers as well, with an increasing number of locals choosing to explore exotic global destinations from the comfort of a cruise ship. Bubolz points out that most South African guests book cruises outside of Africa, often setting off to popular destinations such as the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska. The number of South Africans opting for cruises has been steadily increasing, and NCL has seen a significant uptick in bookings this year compared to the previous year.

There’s a growing awareness of the value cruising offers, especially compared to land-based vacations.

// NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Kevin Bubolz

With meals, entertainment, and various amenities included in the fare, cruising represents an appealing option for those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free travel experience. NCL’s flexible beverage packages, as well as its extensive dining options, further enhance the value proposition, catering to South Africans’ desire for both adventure and affordability.

As 2025 approaches, the anticipation for Aqua’s maiden voyage is building. Kevin is confident that Aqua will be a flagship attraction in NCL’s global itinerary, offering something truly special to the cruising public. With South Africa poised to host two NCL ships in the upcoming season, the future looks bright for the region. Aqua will not only showcase the new offerings in NCL’s fleet but also underscore the brand’s commitment to delivering unique, guest-centric experiences.

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