Norwegian Cruise Lines Gives First Look at Culinary Offerings On Norwegian Aqua

Rendering of the new Thai restaurant, Sukhothai, onboard the Norwegian Aqua.

Norwegian Cruise Line revealed new details about the culinary and beverage experiences coming to the Norwegian Aqua ship, the first of the expanded Prima Plus Class ships debuting in April, 2025.

While the line’s 20th ship will continue NCL guests’ favorite dining and drinking concepts, it’ll also offer three new special offerings that are new to the cruise line.

“Discovering new flavors and dining experiences is such a memorable part of any vacation, especially when you share it with those who matter most to you,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Expanding on our award-winning food and beverage program, we’re looking forward to bringing new concepts to life aboard Norwegian Aqua, while continuing to deliver on the variety of available offerings and value that NCL delivers.”

Sukhothai: a New Specialty Restaurant

The Norwegian Aqua will debut a new first for the cruise line: a Thai specialty restaurant. Cruisers will enjoy trying their favorites, including several curry options, Thai cashew chicken, salt and pepper prawns and much more.

Sukhothai’s design was created by SMC Design, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary Thai design features, such as bamboo and rice paper pendant lights, a geometric patterned floor and more. The restaurant will be located on deck 17.

Swirl Wine Bar: a New Drinking Venue

The Norwegian Aqua will debut a new drinking and social venue, the Swirl Wine Bar. Located on deck 6 between the Whiskey Bar and Hasuki, the wine bar will offer an easy opportunity for gathering and tasting a wine-by-the-glass menu featuring rare and premium wines. The space is designed by Studio DADO and and is inspired by the beauty of the Antelope Canyon in Arizona.

Planterie: a Plant-Forward Dining Option

NCL’s guest-favorite Indulge Food Hall is getting a new dining option, one that focuses on serving up the best of plant-based food. Planterie, which is located on deck 8, will offer dishes like bowls filled with whole grains and vegetables, and inspired by regions like the American Southwest or the Mediterranean.

As its located within the larger Indulge Food Hall, families and groups will enjoy the opportunity to easily snag these plant-forward meals and enjoy them in the indoor or outdoor seating areas of the hall along with the other dining options.

Guest Favorites, Redesigned

Along with the new areas debuting onboard the new ship, the Norwegian Aqua will also feature some redesigned guest favorites. These include one of the ship’s main dining rooms, the Commodore Room, which will offer a redesign featuring a luxurious take on traditional captain’s quarters, with antique wood furnishings, stone accents and more.

Metropolitan, the line’s Sail & Sustain cocktail bar, will offer a new design, too, this time featuring a grand piano and small performance stage for live music. Other redesigned spaces include Nama Sushi and Sashimi, Surfside Cafe, Palomar, Penrose Bar, Waves Pool Bar and others.