Get a stateroom: NCL Aqua’s The Haven

The 20^th ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet, Aqua, is also the first in the brand’s newest class, Prima Plus. As “the face” of this class, she lacks no superlatives – she’s the biggest of its ships, has the most outdoor space, offers an increased number of cabins for solo travellers, and is the most sophisticated by way of design. And make no mistake, she’s a supermodel of the sea, with elegant and stylish interiors conceptualised by a handful of studios best known for their hospitality work.

For those who’d like an added dollop of opulence aboard Aqua, there’s The Haven. Branded by the crew’s savvy copywriters as “a ship within a ship”, this “access only” enclave makes of cruising what boutique hotels have done for those in search of true luxury.

The vibe

Designed by Piero Lissoni, an Italian architect known as much for his product for brands like Kartell, Cappellini, B&B Italia and Alessi as for his buildings, The Haven is like any supermodel – equal parts flawless and adept at meeting the demands of her clients and fans.

The demands of guests travelling in The Haven are attended to by both dedicated concierge and 24-hour butler services. Yes, you’re right to think not only priority disembarkation for shore excursions, or reservations confirmed at that seaside bistro you’ve earmarked in Cannes, but champagne delivered to your stateroom too.

Entry to The Haven part of the Aqua is by keycard-access elevators, and the exclusive area includes its own lounges, dining room, pool deck and bar. Unlike elsewhere on the ship, pretty much all spaces have floor-to-ceiling windows, maximising views.

Your stay

Located at the ship’s aft for a smoother sail, but equally for capturing the perfect selfie in its infinity pool with the wake of the ship as a backdrop, The Haven offers staterooms in shapes and sizes ranging from 34m² to 195m². These sleep anywhere from two to eight passengers. All boast chic interiors in a palette of creams and celadon, with accents in glossy red, alongside marble, marquetry, fluted glass and tinted mirror surfaces. The larger staterooms include generously proportioned balconies, a few with their own hot tubs.

Looking to blow the budget? Book the three-bedroomed Duplex Suite, which extends over two decks, and is unique to Aqua, or any of the Owner’s Suites, the grandest of which includes its own dressing room, walk-in twin shower and marble bath.

Drink and dine

If a seat at The Haven’s circular bar feels familiar to you, it’s likely because you’ve recognised mixologist Kai’s South African accent. Well, that, and because his name tag says so. He’s not just chatty (the mark of a good bartender), but seasoned in guiding patrons through The Haven’s cocktail compass and creating bespoke drinks based on all measure of preferences. At his disposal? An array of infusions, blends, signature bitters and garnishes found only at this bar.

Round a corner, The Haven’s dining room awaits, with menu highlights including ahi tuna tataki, lobster devilled eggs, a filet mignon and lobster tail surf and turf, and pancetta-wrapped lamb chops. Or ask your concierge to make reservations at any of the ship’s eight speciality restaurants (think French, Japanese, Mexican, Thai, Italian and more) – your Haven status guarantees preferential booking.

We really like

Does it qualify as a cruise if you’ve not spent afternoons outdoors, flitting between The Haven’s infinity pool, Jacuzzis, sauna and steam room (both with ocean views!), and deck lounges? We think not. Take it from us, outdoors at The Haven equals its interiors, both in style and exclusivity, and it’s on a lounger here that a French 75 is best enjoyed. Max out on that Caribbean sunshine and work that tan – you’ll want that golden glow when you dance away the night at Revolution: A Celebration of Prince, Aqua’s entertainment showstopper.

_{Top image: A hot tub overlooking the ocean. Picture: supplied.}