We Just Sailed on Norwegian Aqua – Here’s What We Loved

We just stepped off Norwegian Aqua, and wow – this ship blew us away. From the moment we walked onboard, the vibe was modern, open, and refreshingly upscale. Think soft neutral tones, spacious lounges, and design details that instantly set the stage for a more elevated cruise experience – without losing that signature Norwegian Cruise Line fun.

As the newest ship in the Prima Class, Norwegian Aqua carries just over 3,500 guests and spans 20 decks, giving you a sense of space you can feel in every venue. At nearly 156,300 gross tons, it’s designed with today’s cruiser in mind – elevated, open, and full of options. Public spaces feel open and thoughtfully designed, while venues flow naturally into one another, making the ship feel both intimate and full of possibility.

Let’s start with one of our favorite parts: the food. The variety of dining options was a standout, and Indulge Food Hall quickly became our favorite lunch spot. It had something for every craving, and the casual-yet-gourmet feel made it easy to keep coming back.

But the real winner? The Italian restaurant Onda by Scarpetta. We’re not exaggerating when we say it served one of the best meals we’ve ever had at sea. Every dish was beautifully presented, full of flavor, and the service was on point. Across the ship, you'll find more than 15 dining venues, including returning favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Food Republic, plus newcomer options like Sukhothai with authentic Thai cuisine and Planterie, a new station found at Indulge Food Hall. 

Norwegian Aqua doesn’t hold back when it comes to entertainment. The Prince tribute had the crowd singing along, and Rumours (a tribute to Fleetwood Mac) was another must-see. With Broadway-level production value, live music everywhere you turn, and immersive shows in the Viva Theater, the entertainment here rivals anything you’d find on land.

We also loved the action-packed top deck, especially the Glow Court – a sports complex by day and neon-lit hotspot by night. It’s the perfect place for pickleball, basketball, or just spectating with a drink in hand. There’s also a VR arcade, mini golf, and a dedicated gaming area for teens.

And for a quieter vibe? Vibe Beach Club became our go-to escape. It’s adults-only, super chic, and feels like your own private hideaway. Think plush loungers, curated cocktails, and ocean views that go on forever.

Our stateroom was modern, comfortable, and smartly designed. Even in a standard balcony room, it felt roomy and thoughtfully laid out, and we have to mention the bathroom – it honestly felt more like something you’d find in a boutique hotel than on a cruise ship.

Norwegian Aqua features 1,586 staterooms in total, including luxe options in The Haven – an exclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite experience with 24-hour butler service, private pool deck, and its own restaurant and lounge. You’ll also find solo studio cabins (perfect for solo travelers), family-friendly suites with multiple bedrooms and bathtubs, and spacious spa suites with complimentary access to the Mandara Spa’s thermal suite.

We could totally see this ship working for groups of friends, families with teens, or even multigenerational trips. There’s a perfect balance between high-energy fun and quiet luxury. Kids and teens will love the Splash Academy and Entourage, while parents and grandparents can relax at Mandara Spa or enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the specialty restaurants.

Families might also appreciate the Family Suites with room for up to six guests and flexible sleeping arrangements. Plus, there’s so much to do onboard – from escape rooms to infinity hot tubs – that everyone can find their own kind of vacation, all on one ship.

The service onboard was fantastic – friendly, attentive, and always helpful. And with tons of spaces to grab a drink, relax, or socialize (including a Starbucks for your morning fix), we never had trouble finding a favorite spot.

With 20 bars and lounges, there’s always somewhere to unwind, day or night. The Belvedere Bar is a great spot for pre-dinner cocktails – it’s elegant, low-lit, and has a great wine list. Then there’s The Local Bar & Grill for laid-back bites and brews, and the Waves Pool Bar for frozen cocktails with your toes in the water.

To top it all off, we spent a day at Norwegian’s private island, which felt like the ultimate beach escape. White sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibes – it was the perfect way to wrap up an already unforgettable trip. 

Norwegian Aqua is a winner. It delivers a fresh take on cruising with incredible dining, unforgettable entertainment, stylish design, and something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re sailing with family, friends, or just treating yourself, this ship offers a cruise experience that’s as fun as it is elevated.

Want to experience it for yourself? Let us help you plan your Norwegian Aqua getaway – because we already can’t wait to go back.