Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, which sets sail in April 2025 with the world’s first hybrid coaster and waterslide.
Constructed by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Norwegian Aqua spans 1,056 feet long and weighs 156,300 gross tonnes. Per a press release, the ship will offer more outdoor space and the highest staffing levels on any contemporary cruise ship.
David Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said the company is committed to “pushing the boundaries in guest-first experiences that will make new waves at sea”.
“Named for both the beautiful shades of blue from the ocean and our connection to the sea, Norwegian Aqua will feature new, elevated and exhilarating offerings that once again showcase Norwegian Cruise Line as the innovator in the industry and as a key contributor to a new era of cruising,” Herrera added.
Norwegian Aqua will boast a colourful hull by Filipino-American multidisciplinary artist Allison Hueman.
“I’m honored, not only to be the first major female hull artist for Norwegian Cruise Line, but to also know that my artwork will be roaming the seas touching different parts of the world,” said Hueman.
Named the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world-first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide includes dual slides (each 600ft) and a magnetic launch lift that accelerates guests within seconds to 50 km/h into two different courses. The experience provides three storeys of twists and turns around the ship’s funnel and was built by Wiegand, a family-owned manufacturer of toboggan runs, rail-mounted toboggans and stainless steel dry slides.
New cruise ship sets sail in 2025
Highlights on Norwegian Aqua also include the new Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor that becomes a nightclub in the evening.
Returning attractions include a 10-storey free-fall slide called The Drop, an expanded gaming space, an infinity pool, and the Oceanwalk glass bridge.
Norwegian Cruise Line has opened bookings for Norwegian Aqua, which will first offer voyages from Port Canaveral in Florida to the Caribbean.
Earlier this year, Disney Cruise Line unveiled its new ship, the Disney Treasure.
Images courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line
