Set sail for tomorrow on NCL's new generation of ships
With the Prima and Prima Plus classes, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to redefine cruising. Here’s what to expect on these ships, from activities to itineraries.
NCL’s latest fleet additions, the Prima and Prima Plus Class ships, are redefining the modern cruise experience, emphasising spacious outdoor areas, stylish furnishings and destination immersion.
The Prima Class debuted in 2022 with Norwegian Prima, followed by Norwegian Viva, while the Prima Plus Class expands on this vision with Norwegian Aqua launching this April and Norwegian Luna scheduled for April 2026, with two more ships to follow in 2027 and 2028.
A class above
The Prima and Prima Plus ships offer a refreshing approach to sea travel while maintaining and expanding the amenities and services that have made NCL a favourite among cruise enthusiasts.
Thrill-seekers will love the Aqua Slidecoaster available on both Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna. While Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva offer guests a chance to race on a three-storey speedway at sea. For those preferring relaxation, the Infinity Beach pools provide serene spaces to unwind while enjoying panoramic ocean views, and the Mandara Spa offers rejuvenating treatments.
Culinary options cater to diverse palates with a multitude of dining venues. Guests can choose from gourmet Mediterranean seafood at Palomar, interactive Japanese teppanyaki at Hasuki or high-end Italian at Onda by Scarpetta, with every dining option providing first-rate service.
Another highlight is the varied range of accommodation from stylish studios for solo travellers to luxury suites and The Haven by Norwegian, an exclusive part of the ship with concierge service and a 24-hour butler.
Norwegian Aqua: making waves this spring
Norwegian Aqua sets sail on its maiden voyage from Southampton this March; it will operate sailings to Bermuda and the Caribbean from New York, Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral).
The ship features the innovative spaces of previous Prima-class ships, with many now expanded and redesigned, including the Drop, Vibe Beach Club and Ocean Boulevard, combining them with NCL favourites, such as The Haven, and new ground-breaking features.
What’s new on Norwegian Aqua?
- Aqua Slidecoaster: the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea
- Glow Court: a digital sports complex with LED floors creating an immersive play
- Sukhothai: NCL’s first-ever Thai speciality restaurant – authentic Thai cuisine served in an inviting atmosphere
- Swirl Wine Bar: a contemporary wine lounge that strikes the perfect balance between exclusivity and approachability
And more…
Norwegian Prima: explore iconic ports
Having entered service in 2022, Norwegian Prima was the first of NCL’s Prima-class ships. Sailing from departure points like Reykjavik and Southampton, Norwegian Prima has a range of itineraries showcasing some of the world’s most picturesque coastlines.
When it launched, the ship introduced several new features, including:
- The Prima Speedway: The first three-level go-kart track at sea, offering thrilling racing experiences with ocean views
- The Drop and The Rush: A pair of 10-storey dry slides for adrenaline seekers, with The Drop being the first free-fall slide of its kind at sea
- Ocean Boulevard: A 360-degree wraparound deck with outdoor spaces, infinity pools and dining areas designed to maximise sea views
Norwegian Viva: experience this charming ship
Following Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva entered service in 2023. It offers immersive itineraries across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, with departures from ports including Miami, San Juan and Lisbon.
While Norwegian Viva shares many standout features with Norwegian Prima, it has a slightly more Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic with softer tones and accents tailored to its European itineraries.
Norwegian Luna: Caribbean dreams come true
Norwegian Luna, launching in April 2026, will sail from Miami to the Caribbean's most popular destinations.
With stops at NCL's exclusive private islands, Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye, these itineraries combine beach escapes with thrilling adventures such as ziplining over crystal-clear waters, indulging in private cabana service or dining beachfront.
Norwegian Luna will adopt all the ground-breaking innovations of Prima Plus-class ships, as well as some favourites from the earlier ships in the NCL fleet.
Exclusive island retreats
NCL pioneered private islands and was the first cruise line to make the jump when it purchased Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas in the late 1970s.
In addition to its Bahamas outpost, NCL's private destinations include Harvest Caye in Belize. These private havens offer guests exceptional experiences in exclusive environments.
The islands feature pristine beaches and numerous activities, from snorkelling and ziplining to relaxing in beachfront villas.
The premium Silver Cove area at Great Stirrup Cay provides air-conditioned cabanas, dedicated spa services and exclusive lagoon access for guests seeking something extra special.
Harvest Caye offers resort-style amenities, including a large pool, various dining options, and adventure activities like a zipline course and kayaking opportunities.
Experience MORE at Sea with NCL
Ships and destinations are not the only areas of innovation for NCL. The More At Sea™ upgrade gives guests outstanding value and a more all-inclusive experience.
With packages starting at £249pp for a seven- or eight-night cruise, NCL’s More At Sea™ programme includes premium beverages, speciality dining, Wi-Fi powered by Starlink and shore excursion credits.
Planning ahead
New ship launches are always extremely popular – and with Norwegian Aqua debuting soon and Norwegian Luna following next year, it’s worth booking early.
This way, you can guarantee the stateroom and voyage you want. And secure the bragging rights of being one of the first onboard.
