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What happens when two mortgage pros and travel agents take their business on board Norwegian’s brand-new Aqua cruise ship—and don’t stop working? In this Wanderlust Wednesday episode, Nick and Wil sit down with Susan and Bill Egan, owners of Babcock Mortgage and seasoned cruisers, to unpack their firsthand experience aboard Aqua’s inaugural sailing. From conducting client calls in a private cabana to evaluating spa layouts and surprise arcade wins, this episode offers a unique blend of luxury travel and remote work reality. If you're curious about the trade-offs of a cruise that skips the traditional grand chandelier entrance for modern, high-end minimalism—this is the review you need. Whether you're planning a family-friendly getaway or scouting your next travel client’s dream cruise, their insights on The Vibe Beach Club, the Haven suites, onboard dining, and entertainment will change how you think about cruising. The Egans don’t just vacation—they optimize every moment. If you’ve ever dreamed of blending business with bucket list travel, this is the episode that might just convince you to book the trip... and pack your laptop.

Key Takeaways:

• Aqua’s interior is modern and elegant, but it lacks the traditional grand entrance seen on older Norwegian ships.
• The layout of the ship is unconventional, with guests needing to walk through pool areas to reach dining venues.
• Despite layout quirks, the ship is visually beautiful and has a serene, upscale atmosphere throughout.
• Though The Haven offers a luxurious experience, The Vibe offered comparable comfort and exclusivity.
• The spa area impressed with features like a cool pool, hot jets, cascading waterfall walls, heated loungers, and a wide range of saunas.
• Dining menus for places like Le Bistro are consistent across Norwegian ships.
• Entertainment included Elements, Rumours (Fleetwood Mac cover band), glow parties, and nightly comedy shows.
• High-tech mini golf with RFID scoring, free arcade games, air hockey, basketball, and retro classics made the arcade a hit.
• A kids’ mini splash park exists for very young children, but older kids mainly used the aqua coaster and dry slide.
• The dry slide drops 11 decks and has a clear tube section over the edge of the ship.
• Infinity pools on both sides of the ship are free to use but must be claimed early.
• The ship includes games like shuffleboard, cornhole, and interactive soccer-table hybrids, all included with no extra cost.

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