Day 3 of My Norwegian Aqua Cruise Bruges

I woke up bright and early and we had docked in Zeebrugge already!—There’s something about being on a cruise that makes you want to seize the day. Headed straight to the Surf Shack for the buffet breakfast, which was the perfect fuel for what was ahead. Today’s adventure? A trip to Bruges! Disembarking the Aqua we opted for an Uber into Bruges, which cost €50 each way. It works out best value if you’re splitting it four ways, but if you’re solo or in a smaller group, the tour bus at €30 return is the way to go. I hadn’t been to Bruges since 2008, when I worked as a contractor for Cresta Holidays, so I was thrilled to step back into its timeless charm. Honestly, it felt like nothing had changed—cobblestone streets, quaint canals, and that medieval magic still perfectly intact. We started off with a lovely walk through Bruges to the Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Savior (Sint-Salvatorskathedraal), is a Gothic gem, with roots stretching back to the 10th century and its current form crafted between the 13th and 15th centuries. Its 115-meter brick spire dominates the skyline, while inside, visitors are greeted by stunning stained-glass windows, Flemish paintings by masters like Anthony van Dyck, and treasures like a relic of the Holy Cross. Originally a parish church, it became a cathedral in 1834, blending Romanesque foundations with Gothic elegance and later neo-Gothic touches, offering a serene, history-rich escape that feels both grand and intimate. Then, it was onto a mini cruise down the canal—what better way to see Bruges than from the water? and only €15 for a 30 minute cruise. Afterward, we settled in the square with some cherry beer (a must-try!), people-watching and exploring the little shops and corners of the city. It was one of those days where you just lose yourself in the moment. Back on the Norwegian Aqua by 14:00, we dove into the ship’s incredible lineup of activities. The top deck was calling, and I couldn’t resist ‘The Drop’, a 10-story free-fall dry slide that had my heart racing as I plunged down the side of the ship. For something a bit less intense, we checked out Tee Time, the high-tech mini-golf course themed around the Wonders of the World. Spanning two decks with 12 interactive holes, it’s a fun challenge for all ages. The fun didn’t stop there. The Glow Court was great fun — a digital sports court with an LED floor that lights up for games like basketball or interactive challenges. By night, it transforms into a nightclub. For a more laid-back vibe, we strolled along Ocean Boulevard, a massive outdoor promenade wrapping around the ship. With infinity pools at Infinity Beach, comfy loungers, and bars like the Waves Pool Bar, it’s perfect for soaking in the sea air. Then onto the Oceanwalk, a glass-bottom bridge that lets you walk over the water! The kids (or kids at heart) have their own slice of paradise with the Kids’ Aqua Park, complete with slides and splash zones, while adults can unwind at the Vibe Beach Club, an exclusive oasis with hot tubs and a full-service bar. If gaming’s your thing, the Aqua Game Zone has it all—retro arcade classics like Ms. Pac-Man, cutting-edge VR experiences, and even interactive darts at the Bull’s Eye Bar. We didn’t have time to hit the pickleball court or the Pulse Fitness Center (with its spin studio and yoga classes), but they’re definitely on the list for next time. After all that excitement, we enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Hudson’s, where the food was as good as the vibes. The evening rolled on with the "Elements: The World Expanded" show which is an enhanced version of Norwegian Cruise Line’s hugely popular "Elements" production, which has been a guest favourite across four of their ships for 15 years since debuting on the Norwegian Spirit. This revamped edition, exclusive to the Norwegian Aqua started this year, takes the original concept—celebrating the four elements of earth, air, water, and fire—and amps it up with a more immersive and dazzling experience. It blends acrobatics, magic, and high-energy dance, featuring aerial performances that defy gravity, mesmerizing visual effects, and music that ties it all together. Developed by NCL’s in-house Creative Studios team in Tampa, Florida,(which we learned all about yesterday at the Guest Experience Panel) alongside award-winning Broadway choreographer Patricia Wilcox, the show evokes a deep emotional connection while delivering a spectacle that rivals big-city productions like those in Las Vegas. It’s staged in the ship’s innovative three-story Aqua Theater & Club, where you can either watch from traditional seating or get closer to the action, making it a standout night of entertainment that’s both thrilling and unforgettable. Then we capped it all off at the Improv Club, which was the nightclub for the night, dancing the night away to a live DJ. Departure came too soon—off the boat by 08:00 and back home, coached were laid on to the station which was just a 10 minute journey. As I unpack and settle in, I’m already replaying the memories: the canals of Bruges, the thrill of the Aqua Slidecoaster, and the sheer variety of things to do on the Norwegian Aqua. From adrenaline-pumping slides to relaxing poolside moments, this ship has it all. This cruise was everything I’d hoped for and more. Want a hassle-free, tailor-made trip like this? Contact me on 01462 820093 or johno.poole@myTC.com for expert planning, personalised itineraries, and 24/7 support—your dream holiday starts here!