NCL plans to add new lounge areas with hammocks and Tiki-style features
In a landmark ceremony at PortMiami, American luxury cruise Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) officially welcomed its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, into its fleet. Held at the company’s terminal, the event marked the launch of the vessel’s service and highlighted NCL’s ongoing growth and innovation in international cruise travel.
In a press statement, NCL says that the event, attended by over 2,000 guests, served as the launchpad for the company’s announcement to upgrade its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, with a range of new amenities set to open by the end of 2025.
It adds that the christening ceremony was led by Norwegian Aqua’s godfather, two-time Emmy Award-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, who performed the traditional bottle-breaking across the ship’s hull to bless the vessel and ensure safe voyages.
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NCL says that the event featured a preview of its new theatrical production, Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, followed by remarks from NCL President David J Herrera, who presented the company’s development plans for Great Stirrup Cay.
It adds that further developments on the island will include a welcome centre and a tram service to help visitors move around more easily.
David J Herrera
The statement adds that the upgrades will also introduce an adults-only vibe beach club featuring private cabanas and upgraded amenities, and Horizon Park, a recreational area first introduced on Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway, offering lawn games and group activities.
It adds that to maintain the island’s signature atmosphere, NCL plans to add new lounge areas with hammocks and Tiki-style features.
The company emphasised that these changes are part of a broader strategy to offer more diverse and customisable vacation experiences, both on board and ashore.
It adds that with Norwegian Aqua now joining the fleet and beginning its Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, the upgrades at Great Stirrup Cay are designed to align with NCL’s promise to provide guests with “more” across every aspect of their cruise.
Eric Stonestreet
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“It is a very special time for all of us at NCL, we are welcoming a new incredible ship into our fleet with the christening of the stunning and action-packed, Norwegian Aqua, and we are doing so alongside her godfather, Eric Stonestreet, who perfectly embodies the authenticity of what it means for our guests to ‘Experience More at Sea. In addition, we are unveiling that Great Stirrup Cay is getting even greater with more to do! Later this year we will launch new experiences for our guests to enjoy on this already incredible private island. And now with our newest ship entering into the market with voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, it is the perfect time to start planning your next warm-weather vacation,” says David J Herrera, President, Norwegian Cruise Line.
“As a new cruiser who has a deep passion for travel, it is absolutely spectacular to see the amazing features and experiences that travellers and their families can enjoy aboard Norwegian Aqua, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster. The team at Norwegian Cruise Line, on board and ashore, are the very best of the best, and I am honoured to serve as the godfather of the beautiful Norwegian Aqua. As part of the NCL family, I can’t wait for guests to ‘Experience More at Sea’ with NCL and create unforgettable memories with their families as I look forward to doing with mine as well,” says Stonestreet.
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