Norwegian Cruise Line, Europe

Itinerary: Lisbon to Southampton
Sailing: 20 March 2025
Ship: Norwegian Aqua, pre-inaugural voyage
Author: Caroline Hitchen, General Manager – CruiseHQ                                                                                

Aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, on a short showcase from Southampton to Lisbon, it’s easy to see what makes this Prima Plus-class ship stand out. With its sleek, modern design, innovative dining venues, and vibrant entertainment options, Norwegian Aqua brings a new choice to cruising with exciting experiences at sea. Over the course of the few days, I got to experience the features that make NCL cruises so extraordinary.

Enjoy my top 10 moments from the voyage, offering a glimpse into life aboard this impressive new ship:

1. Sleek, Modern Design
Stepping onboard NCL Aqua instantly feels like entering a floating boutique hotel. The ship’s sleek, modern aesthetic with clean lines, calming aqua tones, and spacious layouts creates a refreshing vibe. It’s stylish without being over the top, perfect for a relaxing yet upscale cruise.

2.The Retreat Cabins & Exclusive Experience
If you want to treat yourself, the Retreat cabins are next-level. These suites are ultra-spacious with luxury finishes, private balconies, and top-tier amenities. But what really sets them apart is the Retreat experience: private access to an exclusive lounge, priority dining reservations, and a dedicated concierge. It felt like having my own VIP club at sea – pure indulgence and privacy rolled into one.

3.Spacious Staterooms with a View
Even if you’re not in the Retreat, the regular cabins on NCL Aqua are impressively roomy and thoughtfully designed. Floor-to-ceiling windows in many rooms bring the ocean right into your living space, making every moment onboard feel connected to the sea.

4.The AquaRush Slide: An Epic Top-Deck Thrill
One of the coolest features? The AquaRush Slide — a massive waterslide on the top deck that’s pure adrenaline fun. Racing down while feeling the ocean breeze is an experience you won’t forget. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, this slide adds a splash of excitement for everyone.

5.The Aqua Wellness Spa
One of my favourite spots onboard was the Aqua Wellness Spa. From invigorating massages to rejuvenating facials, the spa’s serene environment was a sanctuary. Plus, their fitness centre overlooking the sea made workouts feel less like a chore and more like a scenic adventure.

6.Innovative Dining Options
Food on NCL Aqua was a highlight and not just one or two great restaurants, but a whole variety. I loved trying everything from fresh sushi at the Asian-fusion spot to indulgent desserts at the onboard patisserie. The chefs clearly prioritise quality and creativity.

7.Relaxing Pool Deck
The pool area is more than just a place to swim — it’s a lounge heaven. Plush sunbeds, cabanas, and a swim-up bar made it easy to spend hours soaking up the sun and sipping tropical cocktails. The vibe was lively but never overcrowded.

8.World-Class Entertainment Featuring the Prince Show
NCL Aqua’s entertainment lineup blew me away. The highlight? The spectacular Prince tribute show, a dazzling blend of live music, choreography, and visual effects that truly captured the magic of the legend. Plus, there are West End-style productions and intimate live music performances every night – there’s always something to look forward to.

9.Family-Friendly Activities & VR Room
Travelling with family? NCL Aqua has you covered. From kids’ clubs to interactive basketball and soccer games, there’s plenty to keep little ones and teens entertained. The standout for me was the VR room, where virtual reality games and experiences made for some seriously fun, tech-forward bonding time. It’s a fantastic way to unplug yet still dive into high-energy entertainment together.

10.Friendly and Attentive Crew
The crew on NCL Aqua stood out for their warmth and attentiveness. Whether it was helping with dinner recommendations or making sure every detail of my cabin was perfect, their hospitality made the whole trip feel personalised and special.