TMR Canada On Scene: Norwegian Aqua Christened, Private Island Expansion Announced

More than 2,000 invited guests gathered in Miami as Norwegian Cruise Line celebrated the official christening of the all-new Norwegian Aqua.

Travel Market Report Canada was on the scene at NCL’s terminal at PortMiami, where two-time Emmy Award winning actor Eric Stonestreet performed the traditional maritime christening ceremony.

To kick off a busy day of events, guests were treated to a preview of NCL’s newest in-house production of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” the world’s first-ever theatrical concert experience honouring the late, great performer. NCL President David J. Herrera followed the performance with a surprising reveal that something great is coming to Great Stirrup Cay. 

Herrera unveiled plans to expand the offerings at its private island, one of the line’s top guest-rated ports, with new experiences. Opening later this year simultaneously with the multi-ship pier completion, guests can look forward to an expansive area for guests to soak up the warm Bahamian sun with an oversized heated pool. 

The soon-to-be hot-spot on the island will offer experiences for the whole family including a splash zone with water fountains and features for children, as well as a swim-up bar for guests who want to keep enjoying their unlimited open bar package off the ship. The new experiences will debut in the fourth quarter of 2025. 

Along with the debut of the new multi-ship pier later this year, guests will step ashore and be greeted by an engaging welcome centre and a convenient new tram service that will provide an effortless way to get around the island. 

The island will soon feature a new Vibe Beach Club, based on the shipboard adults-only outdoor lounge with private cabanas, loungers and other upgraded amenities, as well as Horizon Park, the all-new recreational area which recently debuted on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway that provides lawn style games and a place to gather for the whole family. 

To continue the authentic beachside Bahamian vibe the island is known for, a new relaxation area will come to life with swaying hammocks perfect for an afternoon nap, as well as other Tiki-inspired amenities and experiences yet to be revealed. 

Speaking to the christening audiences, Herrera emphasized that these enhancements are just the beginning of the reimagining of the island’s current offering. 

“It is a very special time for all of us at NCL – we are welcoming a new incredible ship into our fleet with the christening of the stunning and action-packed, Norwegian Aqua, and we are doing so alongside her godfather, Eric Stonestreet, who perfectly embodies the authenticity of what it means for our guests to ‘Experience More at Sea,’” Herrera said. 

“In addition, we are unveiling that Great Stirrup Cay is getting even greater with MORE to do! Later this year we will launch new experiences for our guests to enjoy on this already incredible private island. And now with our newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, entering into the market with voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, it is the perfect time to start planning your next warm-weather vacation.” 

The ceremony continued with remarks by Norwegian Aqua’s Captain, Robert Lundberg; Pastor Pete Pera of Rise Community Church, who made the official blessing of the ship wishing safe travels for all who sail aboard; and John Chernesky, NCL’s Senior Vice President of North America Sales, who introduced Stonestreet to the stage. 

“As a new cruiser who has a deep passion for travel, it is absolutely spectacular to see the amazing features and experiences that travellers and their families can enjoy aboard Norwegian Aqua, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster!” said Stonestreet.

“The team at Norwegian Cruise Line, onboard and ashore, are the very best of the best, and I am honoured to serve as the godfather of the beautiful Norwegian Aqua. As part of the NCL family, I can’t wait for guests to ‘Experience More at Sea’ with NCL and create unforgettable memories with their families as I look forward to doing with mine as well!” 

Following her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will base at Port Canaveral, for a season of seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings through August 2025 with calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay. 

From August 2025 through October 2025, she will sail a series of five and seven-day warm-weather voyages to Bermuda from New York City before returning to Miami for a season of seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises between October 2025 through April 2026, calling again to Great Stirrup Cay.