Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled Norwegian Aura, the largest and longest ship in its fleet, and officially opened it for sale.
Scheduled to debut in Europe in late May 2027 before homeporting in Miami in June 2027, Norwegian Aura represents a new benchmark in size, design, and family-focused experiences for the cruise line.
Measuring nearly 1,130 feet long, weighing 168,000 gross tonnes, and accommodating 3,840 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Aura is 10% larger than its Prima Class predecessors, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.
The ship has been carefully designed to blend reimagined NCL favourites with new, curated experiences for multigenerational travellers.
At the heart of the ship is Ocean Heights, a first-in-the-fleet, open-air activity complex spanning decks 18 to 21.
Designed to transform from high-energy fun during the day to a vibrant evening atmosphere, Ocean Heights will feature the most slides of any NCL ship.
Highlights include Eclipse Racers, NCL’s first duelling mat racer slides; Aura Free Fall, a dramatic drop-in waterslide plunging 250 feet; The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide for groups; and The Drop, the signature 10-deck dry slide.
The area also includes an 82-foot ropes course, rock climbing wall, mini golf, carnival-style games, overhanging private cabanas, and a bar.
Another standout feature is Ocean Boulevard, the ship’s wraparound outdoor promenade on deck eight.
Expanded by 11% compared to earlier Prima Class ships, it offers additional seating, new hot tubs, a new bar, and an enhanced Infinity Beach with luxe daybeds and wading pools.
Ocean Boulevard also introduces dedicated spaces for younger guests, including Adventure Alley for kids aged six to 10, a Teen Hangout with social and photo areas, and Little Explorer’s Cove, a playground for children aged two to six.
Norwegian Aura also elevates poolside and sundeck experiences.
Its pool deck is over 20% larger than those on Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, making it the largest in the NCL fleet.
Guests will enjoy expanded seating, an additional infinity hot tub, a large LED screen, and open lounge areas. Family-friendly attractions continue on the upper decks with a Kids’ Aqua Park, interactive splash features, and two family waterslides.
Nearby, Horizon Park offers lawn games and outdoor seating, while the adults-only Vibe Beach Club is 15% larger, featuring infinity hot tubs, waterfall elements, expanded lounging areas, and a dedicated bar.
Luxury guests will find an elevated experience in The Haven by Norwegian, a private, keycard-access-only enclave featuring 159 suites—the most in the NCL fleet and 30% more than previous Prima Class ships.
Designed by Piero Lissoni, The Haven offers exclusive elevator access, a private sundeck with infinity pool, hot tubs, outdoor sauna and cold room, as well as a dedicated bar, lounge, and restaurant. Guests benefit from premium services such as 24-hour butler and concierge service, priority embarkation, and exclusive onboard access.
Norwegian Aura is currently under construction at Fincantieri in Italy, with interiors designed by leading firms including AD Associates, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, Studio Dado, and Piero Lissoni. The ship will also feature distinctive hull art by international artist Rosie Woods, inspired by celestial light and bioluminescent seas.
Before arriving in Miami, Norwegian Aura will sail a seven-day Mediterranean voyage in May 2027, followed by a 14-day transatlantic crossing.
From June through October 2027, the ship will offer Eastern Caribbean itineraries, and during winter 2027/28, Western Caribbean cruises, calling on destinations including Great Stirrup Cay, Harvest Caye, and popular ports across the Caribbean.
“We are proud to introduce the newest, and largest, addition to our fleet, Norwegian Aura,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. "Norwegian Aura represents the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and the celebration of bringing together families, friends and travelers from around the world. With brilliance and connection at her core, the ship was created to give all guests the freedom to vacation their very own way – offering the chance to exhale, connect and effortlessly escape into the moment. We look forward to this next milestone and can’t wait for guests to experience all that Norwegian Aura has to offer.” -TradeArabia News Service
