Norwegian Aqua arrives in Miami, will sail Caribbean through to April 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrating the arrival of Norwegian Aqua to her new homeport of Miami, kicking off her winter season of Caribbean cruises with calls to the company's private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

Following her first season of Bermuda sailings from New York City, Norwegian Aqua will offer cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Miami through April 2026.

"We are delighted to welcome Norwegian Aqua to her new homeport in Miami, the city where NCL originated and continues to play a significant role in our history even today with our headquarters here," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, in a press release. "As our newest ship in Miami, now is the perfect time for guests to book their next tropical getaway to the Caribbean and Bahamas for a vacation filled with exhilarating and relaxing onboard activities for the whole family, while visiting beautiful destinations – including our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay."

Beginning now through April 2026, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day Caribbean voyages from Miami to multiple island paradises including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, which by late 2025, will boast a brand-new pier; a massive 28,000 square-foot heated pool with swim-up bars; and a kids' splash area.  

Norwegian Aqua will return to Miami from October 2026 to April 2027 to sail Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries featuring a visit to Great Stirrup Cay where guests can experience the all-new Great Tides Waterpark, a six-acre aquatic wonderland set to debut in Summer 2026.

With an overall 10 per cent increase in size and capacity compared to sister ships Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua boasts the longest and fastest slides at sea, the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world's first ever hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that propels guests through one of two unique courses spanning three decks.

The ship also features the Glow Court, an interactive digital sports complex with an LED floor, offering a variety of games and activities by day before transforming into a nightclub in the evening.

The revamped Aqua Game Zone provides a family-friendly arcade environment featuring virtual reality experiences and classic games such as Ms. Pac-Man, Mario Brothers, and Duck Pin Bowling. Families and active travellers will find plenty to enjoy, including the outdoor activity complex, The Stadium; The Drop, a thrilling 10-story dry slide; and the Bull's Eye Bar, where interactive darts can be paired with a refreshing cocktail or beer.

The adults-only Vibe Beach Club features spacious outdoor loungers and cabanas with sweeping ocean views.

Norwegian Aqua's Mandara Spa and Salon also provides rejuvenating treatments, tranquil saunas, and other services for guests looking to escape for some much-needed respite.

In addition to 17 restaurants and 18 bars and lounges for guests to indulge in, Norwegian Aqua's entertainment lineup includes immersive productions such as "Revolution: A Celebration of Prince," honouring the legendary artist's greatest hits.

Other headlining shows include "Elements: The World Expanded," a visually stunning performance blending acrobatics, magic, and the four elements—earth, wind, fire, and water—as well as interactive experiences like "The Price is Right LIVE" and more.

Current offers include free airfare for the second guest and kids sail free on select sailings.

With starting rates for three-day Bahamas sailings from Miami at $249 per person and seven-day Caribbean cruises at $499 per person, Norwegian Cruise Line is also offering 70 per cent off the second guest for a limited time.

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