Norwegian Aura Puts Ocean Heights at Top of New Larger NCL Flagship
Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed Norwegian Aura, its largest ship to date. The vessel introduces new onboard spaces and expands several outdoor areas, with a clear focus on scale and upper-deck activity.
Norwegian Aura will launch in late May 2027 on an inaugural seven-day Mediterranean voyage, according to the company. After a transatlantic crossing, the ship will begin Caribbean service from Miami in June 2027.
At nearly 168,000 gross tons, Aura is the biggest ship ever built for the cruise line. She is also the longest vessel in the fleet, measuring close to 1,130 feet. The ship will carry 3,840 passengers at double occupancy.
Four Decks of Activity, From Day to Night
A major design focus onboard is Ocean Heights, a new open-air activities area located near the top of the ship. Spanning four decks, the space brings together outdoor attractions, seating and social areas in one continuous zone.
Ocean Heights is designed to operate differently throughout the day. During daylight hours, the area functions as an activity-focused space. In the evening, lighting and LED projections shift the atmosphere toward a more relaxed social setting.
Day and night renders shows Ocean Heights aboard Norwegian Aura, highlighting the four-deck open-air area with waterslides, ropes course, illuminated slides, and LED lighting effects. Credit Norwegian Cruise Line.
The area includes five waterslides, some stretching more than 400 feet. Other features include an 82-foot ropes course, a rock climbing wall and a nine-hole mini golf course. Aura Midway adds carnival-style games in an outdoor setting. Ocean Heights also includes a bar, allowing passengers to enjoy a refreshment without leaving the area.
More Spaces to Reveal
Private cabanas extend over the side of the ship, overlooking the ocean and nearby deck areas. The cabanas are positioned close to Ocean Heights and adjacent upper-deck spaces.
Beyond Ocean Heights, Norwegian Aura continues the line’s emphasis on outdoor design. The ship features expanded pool and sun deck areas, along with a longer wraparound promenade compared with earlier Prima Class vessels.
