By
Richard Humphreys |
Since debuting in April 2025, Norwegian Aqua has been taking passengers on Eastern Caribbean cruises, visiting places like The Bahamas; Saint Thomas in the US Virgin Islands; Tortola in the British Virgin Islands; the Dominican Republic; and Norwegian Cruise Line’s private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay.
Norwegian Aqua is the first of Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) Prima Plus-class ships and is 10 per cent larger than its predecessors. The 3,571-guest vessel was built by Fincantieri at its yard in Marghera, Italy.
“Norwegian Aqua’s interior design strikes a refined balance between elevated sophistication and approachable luxury,” says Gary Anslow, vice president and head of UK and Ireland for NCL. “The ship’s aesthetic builds on the Prima class DNA – clean lines, expansive light-filled spaces and premium finishes – while pushing into bolder, more expressive territory. Key design elements include a more open flow between spaces, curated artwork throughout and a colour palette inspired by the sea, sky and natural materials.”
One of the “standout spaces” that debuted on Norwegian Aqua is the Aqua Slidecoaster, a three-storey hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide. There is also Glow Court, an immersive LED sports and entertainment venue; NCL’s most expansive Ocean Boulevard; an expanded adults-only Vibe Beach Club; upgraded accommodation; and the brand’s first three-bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.
“The Haven by Norwegian has been reimagined with an enhanced sense of exclusivity, featuring bespoke furnishings, ambient lighting and materials selected to reflect a serene, resort-style escape,” says Anslow.
Duplex Haven Suites feature bespoke furnishings and provide a resort-style escape for passengers
“We’ve placed a strong emphasis on flow, how guests move from one space to the next, and on ensuring that each area offers its own distinct vibe. Whether it’s the peaceful retreat of the new expanded Spa Thermal Suite or the high-energy pulse of Glow Court, there’s a sensory richness that enhances every onboard moment. Our goal with Aqua was to create a ship where every space tells a story, whether that’s through lighting design, the tactility of materials, or how a space frames the view of the ocean.”
NCL collaborated with a range of design firms and manufacturers in the development of Norwegian Aqua. Studio DADO led the design of key spaces across the ship, including staterooms and signature dining venues, applying its experience in hospitality-focused interiors. NCL has been committed to using sustainable materials and implementing eco-conscious designs.
Textiles and carpets were supplied by Dansk Wilton and Ege Carpets, both chosen as partners because of their craftsmanship and focus on sustainable production. Lighting design in public areas was handled by specialist teams and contributes to the overall atmosphere and functionality of the ship’s interior spaces throughout the day and night.
“Interior design on Norwegian Aqua is more than aesthetics; it’s the emotional architecture of the guest journey,” says Anslow. “Thoughtful spatial design impacts everything from how relaxed a guest feels during dinner at Hudson’s, with its 270-degree views and serene design, to how energised they feel arriving at The Penrose Atrium, a soaring, multilevel space with sculptural design details and statement lighting fixtures.
“We’ve collaborated closely with top-tier designers to ensure every detail contributes to a heightened guest experience. For example, staterooms and suites feature calming tones, layered textures, and smart storage, making them both beautiful and functional. Meanwhile, The Haven’s private lounges and dining areas create a boutique hotel atmosphere at sea, ensuring guests feel a sense of privilege and calm from the moment they arrive.”
Anslow adds that Norwegian Aqua reflects a global design perspective. “From Nordic minimalism to tropical modernism, there are subtle influences throughout the ship that nod to international design traditions,” he says. “There’s also integration of art with site-specific installations and curated pieces that create focal points and invite guests to pause and engage.”
The Belvedere Bar offers a fine example of how the ship’s interior design draws in light
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