All aboard

Norwegian Aqua: A Fun New Cruise Option I just got back from an awesome 3-night sailing on Norwegian Aqua, NCL’s brand-new ship and the first in their Prima Plus Class. I was lucky enough to hop on board for its inaugural sailing from Southampton, and if you’re looking for flexibility, great food, and a fun vibe, Aqua is definitely worth checking out. She’s off to the Caribbean now, but this quick UK stop was a great chance to see what she’s all about. First Impressions: Big, But Not Overwhelming The first thing I noticed? Aqua feels spacious. There are loads of open areas and outdoor spots to chill, so even though it’s a big ship, it never felt packed. The design is modern but not over-the-top, just comfortable and stylish. And the best part? You can do as much or as little as you want. Whether you want to lounge by the infinity pool, grab a drink, or dive into some fun activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy without feeling rushed. Food: So Many Great Options Let’s talk food—because Aqua nails it. Here are my top picks: • Cagney’s Steakhouse – Hands down, best steak I’ve had at sea. Worth every bite. • The Commodore Room – One of the main dining rooms, great service, chilled vibe, and tasty food. • Surfside Café – A solid buffet with tons of choice—pizzas, pasta, salads, and more. • The Local Bar & Grill – Perfect for wings, burgers, and breakfast (plus you can catch the football). • Indulge Food Hall – My favorite spot! Think street food but at sea—tacos, curries, noodles, and desserts, all ordered from a tablet. The Tikka Masala was so good I had it twice. Entertainment: You Won’t Be Bored Aqua knows how to put on a show, and these were the standouts: • Revolution: A Celebration of Prince – Absolutely brilliant. Amazing energy, killer performances. • Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show – Felt like a real concert—so, so good. • Syd Norman’s Pour House – A rock bar with a live band playing all the classics. Grab a drink and sing along. Activities: Something for Everyone There’s loads to do, from high-tech fun to classic cruise favorites: • Interactive Darts – Never seen this at sea before! It’s like darts with a digital twist, super fun. • Mini Golf – Themed holes with electronic tracking—quirky but brilliant. • The Aqua Coaster – Yep, there’s a rollercoaster on board. And it’s actually pretty epic. • The Dry Drop Slide – Was closed when I was there, but it looks like a wild ride down multiple decks. The Haven: VIP Treatment If you’re looking for something extra special, Aqua’s Haven area is a game-changer. It’s a private, suite-only section with its own pool, sun deck, and exclusive restaurant. It’s got a quiet, luxurious feel, perfect if you want to escape the crowds. Plus, you get priority everything—boarding, dining, and even entertainment reservations. If you like a bit of VIP treatment, it’s worth considering. Time to Chill: The Spa After all that action, I had to check out the Mandara Spa—and it was so worth it. Salt room, sauna, thermal suite, and a chill lounge with ocean views. If you need a break, this is the place to be. Cabin: Comfy & Well-Located I stayed in a Family Balcony Cabin on Deck 14, and it was spot on—spacious, big bathroom, and close to everything. No complaints! More at Sea Package: Worth It? If you’re booking a cruise with NCL, check out the More at Sea package. It includes: • Premium drinks • Wi-Fi • Specialty dining • Shore excursion credit It just makes the trip easier—no worrying about extra costs piling up. Who’s Aqua For? This ship is perfect if you’re: • A couple or a group – Fun vibe, loads of space, and plenty to do. • A family with teens – Tons of cool activities that older kids will love. • Looking for something fresh – Modern, stylish, and full of variety. • Someone who loves flexibility – No set dining times, just do your own thing. Final Thoughts: A Brilliant New Ship Honestly? I loved it. Aqua is modern, fun, and super flexible, with great food, top-notch entertainment, and loads to do. Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned pro, you’ll have a blast. She won’t be sailing from Southampton again anytime soon, but if you’re thinking about a Caribbean cruise, Aqua is a brilliant pick. Got questions or need help planning? Just ask—I’m always happy to chat!