Norwegian Cruise Line’s Newest Ship Is Now Sailing to the Caribbean From Port Canaveral

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Norwegian Aqua, has officially arrived at Port Canaveral in Florida. The launch comes as Caribbean cruise demand continues to rise, with major lines expanding service from Florida ports, including the recent high-profile launch of MSC World America out of PortMiami. 

The 3,571-passenger Aqua is the first in the company’s new Prima Plus class and was welcomed with a water salute by Canaveral Fire Rescue and a maritime plaque exchange onboard.

The ship is 10 percent larger than its Prima-class predecessors, with more outdoor space and higher staffing levels across guest services, according to Norwegian Cruise Line.

Norwegian Aqua will operate seven-day itineraries from Port Canaveral through August 2025, with stops in Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in The Bahamas, which is set for guest enhancements later this year.

“We have a great partnership with NCL and are excited to welcome Norwegian Aqua to our homeport fleet,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO, in a statement provided to Caribbean Journal.  “Port Canaveral is the ideal homeport for this new Prima-Plus class ship, especially with more guests driving in to take advantage of our easy in/easy out access. Our team looks forward to providing their guests with the customer-focused experience that has made our Port a cruise industry leader.”   

“We are excited to debut Norwegian Aqua at Port Canaveral as it allows us to showcase the ship’s innovative offerings from a port that’s incredibly popular with our guests,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Port Canaveral’s proximity to major airports and ease of access makes it an ideal homeport for our new ship.”

Norwegian Aqua will sail weekly every Saturday from the Central Florida port.

What Else to Know about Norwegian Aqua:

Norwegian Aqua is the first ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Plus class, featuring a larger design and expanded spaces compared to earlier Prima-class vessels. The ship debuts new accommodations, including the upgraded Haven Premier Owner’s Suite, which offers guests a private sundeck experience. Aqua is also the first vessel at sea to feature a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide attraction, the Aqua Slidecoaster. Following its Caribbean season, the ship is scheduled to offer select Bermuda sailings before continuing additional deployments. Reservations are already open for voyages through 2026.