Norwegian Aura™ Sets Sail: NCL’s Biggest and Brightest Ship Launches for 2027

Is Norwegian Aura™ Good for Families? What to Expect Onboard

Norwegian Cruise Line has officially opened bookings for Norwegian Aura™, the cruise line’s largest and most illuminating ship to date, with her first voyages setting sail in May 2027. Designed to bring families and travellers together in bold new ways, Norwegian Aura represents the next evolution of NCL’s fleet.

Measuring nearly 1,130 feet long and weighing 169,000 gross tonnes, Norwegian Aura will welcome up to 3,840 guests at double occupancy. That makes her 10% larger than Norwegian Aqua® and Norwegian Luna™, offering even more space for relaxation, adventure and connection. After debuting in Europe in late May 2027, the ship will homeport in Miami from June 2027, sailing seven-day Caribbean itineraries.

Ocean Heights™: A New Icon of Family Fun

At the heart of the ship is Ocean Heights™, a first-of-its-kind, open-air activities complex spanning decks 18 to 21. Designed for multi-generational fun, the space transforms from energetic daytime thrills to a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere at night using immersive lighting and LED projections.

Norwegian Aura will feature more slides than any NCL ship, including the brand’s first duelling mat racer waterslides, a dramatic drop-in body slide, a pendulum-style raft ride and the returning Prima Class favourite, The Drop, plunging guests ten decks in seconds. The complex also includes an 82-foot ropes course, rock climbing wall, mini golf, outdoor games, overhanging private cabanas and a dedicated bar overlooking the ocean.

Ocean Boulevard and Expansive Outdoor Living

Deck eight is home to Ocean Boulevard, the signature wraparound outdoor promenade. On Norwegian Aura, this space has been expanded by 11%, offering more seating, new hot tubs, a brand-new bar and an enlarged Infinity Beach complete with luxe daybeds and wading pools.

Families are well catered for with Adventure Alley for kids aged six to ten, a dedicated Teen Hangout, and Little Explorer’s Cove for younger guests, ensuring every age group has a space of their own.

Ocean Heights onboard the Norwegian Aura ship

Next-Level Pool Decks and Adults-Only Escapes

Norwegian Aura’s pool deck will be the largest in the NCL fleet, more than 20% bigger than her predecessors, featuring extra lounge space, an additional infinity hot tub and a larger LED screen for entertainment under the sun.

For adults seeking tranquillity, Vibe Beach Club has been expanded by 15%, offering more seating, infinity hot tubs, a waterfall feature and a relaxed, resort-style atmosphere at sea.

The Haven by Norwegian®: Elevated Luxury at Sea

Norwegian Aura will offer 1,976 staterooms, including a record number within The Haven by Norwegian®, the line’s exclusive, keycard-access luxury enclave. With 30% more suites than previous Prima Class ships, The Haven features private elevators, a panoramic infinity pool, outdoor sauna and cold room, plus a dedicated restaurant, lounge and sundeck.

Guests staying in The Haven enjoy 24-hour butler and concierge service, priority access throughout the ship and exclusive onboard experiences designed for effortless luxury.

From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean

Before arriving in Miami, Norwegian Aura will sail a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste to Barcelona in May 2027, followed by a 14-day transatlantic crossing. From June through October 2027, she will offer Eastern Caribbean cruises, including calls to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s newly enhanced private island in the Bahamas.

In winter 2027/28, Norwegian Aura will switch to Western Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations such as Cozumel, Costa Maya, Roatan and Harvest Caye.

With groundbreaking attractions, expanded outdoor spaces and refined luxury, Norwegian Aura™ is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated new cruise ships of 2027.