Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially christened its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, in Miami.
The christening ceremony, which is rooted in maritime tradition of blessing a vessel prior to officially commencing its life at sea, took place at the Company’s LEED Gold Certified terminal at Port Miami and included a special appearance by Norwegian Aqua godfather and two-time Emmy Award-winning actor, Eric Stonestreet.
To kick off the ceremony, the over 2,000 guests in attendance were treated to a preview of NCL’s newest in-house production of “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince”.
Then, NCL President David J. Herrera unveiled the company’s plans to expand the offerings at its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas – one of NCL’s top guest-rated ports.
NCL to Build New Amenities & Enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas – ittn.ie
“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,” said Mr Herrera.
“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, Norwegian Aqua, entering the market with voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, now is the perfect time to start planning your next warm-weather holiday.”
The ceremony continued with remarks by Norwegian Aqua’s Captain, Robert Lundberg; Pastor Pete Pera of Rise Community Church who made the official blessing of the ship wishing safe travels for all who sail aboard; and John Chernesky, NCL’s Senior Vice President of North America Sales who introduced Emmy Award-winning actor and Norwegian Aqua’s Godfather, Eric Stonestreet, to the stage.
“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!” said Eric Stonestreet. “The team at Norwegian Cruise Line, onboard and ashore, are the very best of the best, and I am honored 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!”
The christening event concluded with the ceremonial bottle break across the ship’s hull, which was initiated by Mr Stonestreet and signifies good fortune and safe travels for all who sail aboard for the life of the vessel.
Following her christening voyage, Norwegian Aqua will arrive to Port Canaveral, Fla., for a season of seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings through August 2025 with calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and the company’s private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. From August 2025 through October 2025, she will sail a series of five and seven-day warm-weather voyages to Bermuda from New York City before returning to Miami for a season of seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises between October 2025 through April 2026, calling again to Great Stirrup Cay.
