Norwegian Aqua NYC 2026: Complete Bermuda Cruise Season Guide

Published: February 28, 2026
Norwegian Aqua cruise ship departing Manhattan Cruise Terminal at Pier 88 with the New York City skyline in the background, heading toward Bermuda

Table of Contents

2026 Norwegian Aqua NYC Quick Facts

  • Total Sailings: 28 departures from Manhattan Cruise Terminal
  • Ship: Norwegian Aqua
  • Destination: Bermuda (Royal Naval Dockyard)
  • Durations: 5–8 days
  • Season: April 18 through October 8, 2026
  • Route: All sailings are round-trip New York → Bermuda
  • Terminal: Pier 88, Manhattan (48th Street & 12th Avenue)

Search all Norwegian Aqua 2026 NYC sailings →

Norwegian Aqua serves as Norwegian Cruise Line's dedicated Bermuda specialist at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal throughout the 2026 season, offering Northeast travelers a consistent schedule of no-fly round-trip voyages to one of the Atlantic's most iconic island destinations.

Browse available dates using our Norwegian Cruise Line sailing finder or sign up for deal alerts to get notified when availability opens on your preferred departure.

Season Highlights

Norwegian Aqua's 2026 NYC season runs from mid-April through early October with 28 total sailings—all round-trip to Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda. The schedule follows a consistent rhythm: weekly 7-day sailings dominate from April through late August, providing excellent flexibility for vacation planning. A special 8-day departure on July 3rd takes advantage of the Independence Day holiday weekend, while a 6-day option in late June caters to travelers seeking something between the standard durations. The season transitions to shorter 5-day getaways beginning in late August, offering quick escapes through early October as the Bermuda season winds down.

Why Norwegian Aqua for Your Bermuda Cruise?

Norwegian Aqua is NCL's newest ship assigned to the classic Manhattan-to-Bermuda run, bringing fresh amenities and modern design to one of the East Coast's most beloved cruise itineraries. As NCL's dedicated Bermuda specialist for NYC in 2026, Norwegian Aqua is the only ship running this route for the majority of the season. For Aqua's complete 2026 itinerary program beyond the NYC/Bermuda run, see our full Norwegian Aqua itineraries guide.

These no-fly cruises from New York eliminate airport logistics entirely. Drive or take ground transportation to Pier 88 at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal and step directly into your vacation. For Northeast travelers from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, Manhattan Cruise Terminal departures offer unmatched convenience—no security lines, no baggage fees, no connection risks. Drive-to cruises for Northeast travelers represent the simplest path to an international island vacation.

Upon arrival in Bermuda, the ship docks at Royal Naval Dockyard, placing guests at the island's most accessible and vibrant hub, with easy connections to every corner of Bermuda by ferry and bus.

Search all Norwegian Aqua 2026 sailings from NYC → to compare available dates and cabin types.

Bermuda Itinerary Overview

Royal Naval Dockyard: Bermuda's Premier Cruise Hub - Every Norwegian Aqua sailing from NYC calls at Royal Naval Dockyard on the western tip of Bermuda. From the Dockyard, travelers access the island's famous pink-sand beaches along the South Shore, the colorful capital Hamilton (reachable by a scenic ferry crossing), the Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave, and a network of scooter and e-bike rental stands for independent exploration. The Dockyard itself hosts the National Museum of Bermuda, artisan shopping, local restaurants, and commanding harbor views.

Flexible Duration Options - The 2026 season offers four duration formats to match different travel needs:

  • 7-day sailings — The standard Bermuda experience, operating weekly from April through late August. Maximum time on the island.
  • 8-day sailing — One special departure on July 3rd, offering extended island time over the July 4th holiday.
  • 6-day sailing — One mid-length option departing June 27th for travelers who need to be home a day early.
  • 5-day sailings — Quick getaways operating from late August through early October, ideal for first-time cruisers or repeat visitors wanting a shorter escape.

Month-by-Month Norwegian Aqua NYC Calendar for 2026

April 2026

Norwegian Aqua opens its NYC Bermuda season with two 7-day sailings in April. The season-opener departs April 18th, followed by a second departure on April 25th. Spring in Bermuda brings mild temperatures, thinner crowds compared to peak summer, and the island's lush post-winter greenery. April is an excellent option for travelers who prefer a quieter Bermuda experience while still enjoying comfortable beach weather and full access to the island's attractions.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 7 days

May 2026

May delivers the highest sailing frequency of the season—five consecutive weekly departures provide outstanding flexibility for spring vacation planning. Norwegian Aqua departs on May 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. The Memorial Day weekend sailings (May 23rd and 30th) are particularly popular, allowing travelers to combine a federal holiday with a full week in Bermuda. Temperatures warm noticeably through May, making beach visits, snorkeling at Church Bay and Tobacco Bay, and cycling the Railway Trail increasingly inviting.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 7 days

June 2026

Four Norwegian Aqua departures mark the arrival of summer. Weekly 7-day sailings operate on June 6th, 13th, and 20th, while June 27th offers a shorter 6-day option for travelers who need to return a day ahead of the standard schedule. Full summer conditions take hold in Bermuda through June—warm water temperatures, long daylight hours, and a lively island atmosphere make this one of the most enjoyable months to visit. Horseshoe Bay Beach, Elbow Beach, and Warwick Long Bay are at their best.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 6–7 days

July 2026

July is the centerpiece of Norwegian Aqua's NYC season. The month opens with a special 8-day sailing departing July 3rd—an extended itinerary timed for Independence Day, giving guests more time on the island over the holiday weekend. Weekly 7-day sailings then continue on July 11th, 18th, and 25th. Peak summer brings Bermuda's warmest ocean temperatures, peak water clarity for snorkeling and diving, and the island's calendar of summer events. Long days mean maximum time for both shore excursions and onboard activities.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 7–8 days

August 2026

August opens with four weekly 7-day sailings on August 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd—maintaining the full summer schedule. The month then transitions to shorter getaways: a 5-day sailing departs August 29th, signaling the seasonal shift toward quicker escapes. Late August is excellent timing for families squeezing in a last vacation before school returns, as well as for catching Bermuda's Cup Match cricket festival, a beloved two-day national celebration. Ocean temperatures remain warm through the end of August.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 5–7 days

September 2026

September shifts entirely to 5-day sailings as Norwegian Aqua enters the final stretch of its NYC season. Six departures fall on September 3rd, 8th, 13th, 18th, 23rd, and 28th—the most frequent month by sailing count. The Labor Day departure on September 3rd is ideal for one final summer escape. Bermuda in September offers a distinct appeal: crowds thin considerably, temperatures remain warm and pleasant for the beach, and the island settles into a more relaxed autumn rhythm. These 5-day sailings are an efficient option for travelers with limited time.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 5 days

October 2026

Norwegian Aqua closes out its 2026 NYC season with two final 5-day Bermuda sailings, departing October 3rd and October 8th. Early October in Bermuda is an underrated time to visit: summer heat softens to a comfortable warmth, the island is at its least crowded of the season, and the sea remains welcoming for swimming and water activities. These sailings offer a quieter, more unhurried Bermuda experience before Norwegian Aqua departs for its winter deployment.

Ships: Norwegian Aqua Destinations: Bermuda Duration: 5 days

Planning Tips

  • Book early for peak departures — The July 3rd 8-day sailing and Memorial Day weekend departures (May 23rd and 30th) are the highest-demand sailings of the season and fill up well in advance.

  • 5-day sailings for quick getaways — The late August through October 5-day options are a practical choice for first-time cruisers, long-weekend travelers, or repeat Bermuda visitors who want a shorter trip without sacrificing the destination.

  • Consider shoulder season — April and October sailings offer the same Royal Naval Dockyard experience with lighter ship capacity demand. Bermuda's weather is still very pleasant in both months.

  • Bermuda entry requirements — Bermuda maintains its own entry documentation separate from standard Caribbean destinations. Verify current requirements directly with NCL and the Government of Bermuda before your sailing.

  • Island transportation — Bermuda does not allow visitors to rent cars. Plan to use the public bus and ferry network, rent scooters or e-bikes, or hire taxis for exploration beyond the Dockyard area.

  • Terminal access — Pier 88 at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal is reachable by car (parking available on-site), taxi, rideshare, or public transit from Midtown. Arriving early helps avoid peak embarkation congestion in the afternoon hours.

  • 6-day vs 7-day sailings — If you're weighing the June 27th 6-day sailing against a standard 7-day, note the itinerary is otherwise the same. The shorter sailing simply trims one sea day.

How to Find the Best Deals on Norwegian Aqua Bermuda Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line fares fluctuate based on demand, booking timing, and remaining cabin availability. Here are some strategies to keep in mind:

  • Book early — Promotional fares for peak summer sailings are often available 12–18 months ahead; early bookers typically have access to better cabin selection as well
  • Monitor availability — Fares and open cabin categories shift frequently; set up deal alerts to receive notifications when your preferred Norwegian Aqua departure has changes
  • Shoulder season sailings — April, late September, and October tend to see lighter booking demand than peak July and August, with the same Bermuda itinerary
  • Shorter sailings for flexibility — The 5-day and 6-day options cover fewer nights and can fit tighter vacation windows that don't accommodate a full week away
  • Watch for last-minute availability — Closer to departure dates, cabins that had been unavailable sometimes reopen as bookings shift
  • Compare all NYC sailings — See our complete 2026 New York cruise guide for all NCL sailings from the Manhattan homeport
  • Solo traveler strategies — How to cruise for less as a solo traveler covers booking timing strategies applicable to these Bermuda sailings

Compare all Norwegian Aqua 2026 NYC sailings →

Our sailing finder shows current availability across all 28 Norwegian Aqua departures from New York, helping you match your preferred dates with open cabin types and departure schedules.

With 28 sailings across six months from mid-April through early October, Norwegian Aqua offers the most consistent no-fly Bermuda cruise schedule from New York City in 2026—a strong option for any Northeast traveler looking to reach the island without setting foot in an airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Norwegian Aqua sail from New York in 2026?

Norwegian Aqua operates from New York City from April 18 through October 8, 2026, with 28 total sailings to Bermuda from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal at Pier 88.

Where does Norwegian Aqua go from NYC in 2026?

Norwegian Aqua sails exclusively to Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda from New York in 2026. All itineraries are round-trip from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

How long are Norwegian Aqua NYC to Bermuda cruises?

Norwegian Aqua NYC Bermuda cruises range from 5 to 8 days. Standard sailings are 7 days, with a special 8-day sailing around July 4th and shorter 5-6 day options in late summer and early fall.

What is the best time to sail on Norwegian Aqua from NYC to Bermuda?

Peak season runs May through August with weekly 7-day sailings and ideal Bermuda weather. June and July offer the warmest conditions and longest days. Late summer and fall offer 5-day quick getaways as the season winds down.

Does Norwegian Aqua do round-trip Bermuda sailings from NYC?

Yes, all 28 of Norwegian Aqua's 2026 NYC sailings are round-trip from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal to Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda.