
Norwegian Cruise Line's Private Island Paradise
Great Stirrup Cay
Escape to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's exclusive private island in the Bahamas, a truly popular destination for NCL guests. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line since the 1970s, this idyllic 250-acre island in the Berry Islands has a rich history, evolving from a pirate hideout and military base into a Caribbean cruiser's paradise.
What was already a fantastic getaway is now undergoing an extraordinary transformation, with Norwegian Cruise Line investing approximately $150 million into significant enhancements. These upgrades are set to redefine the island experience, offering even more opportunities for adventure and relaxation, embodying what NCL calls "The Great Life".
Discover the Great Transformation: What's New & Coming Soon!
Great Stirrup Cay is set to become even greater, with a phased rollout of exciting new amenities through late 2025 and progressively throughout 2026. The ongoing construction is carefully managed to ensure it has no impact on the guest experience, with all existing areas remaining fully accessible.

Brand New Pier (Coming Winter 2025)
One of the most anticipated additions is the new pier, allowing Norwegian Cruise Line ships to dock directly at the island, eliminating the need for tender boats which can sometimes be a slow process. This means more time for you to enjoy the island, stepping directly from ship to sand. The pier is designed to simultaneously accommodate two large NCL vessels. A new island-wide tram service will also debut, making exploring the island a breeze.
Great Stirrup Cay, an exclusive private island in the Bahamas, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line

The Great Life Lagoon (Coming Late 2025)
Get ready to make a splash at the spectacular new 2,600 sq. metres (28,000 sq. ft.) heated oceanfront pool, set to be NCL's biggest pool. This expansive area will feature two swim-up bars (Reef Bar with a DJ, and Waves Bar near the kids' splash area) and a gradual, beach-style entry perfect for families. Guests will find an abundance of complimentary loungers and umbrellas.
The new pool area featuring swim up bars at NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

Great Tides Waterpark (Coming Summer 2026)
For thrill-seekers, the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark promises non-stop excitement. It will boast 19 waterslides, including the unmissable 170-foot Tidal Tower with eight thrilling slides (some with convenient conveyor belts). Cliffside Cove will feature racer slides and the cruise industry's first cliff jumps at 10 and 15 feet tall, alongside the Caribbean’s only family slide, allowing four guests to slide simultaneously. There's also a 9,000-square-foot kids' splash zone and a nearly 800-foot dynamic river, faster and more exciting than a typical lazy river, complete with an illuminated grotto tunnel.
The brand new waterpark at Norwegian Cruise Line's private island Great Stirrup Cay

Vibe Shore Club (Adults-Only - Coming Early 2026)
Experience true island luxury at the exclusive Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only (18+) retreat bringing NCL's signature onboard experience to the island. This private area will offer plush loungers, a curated beach playlist, stunning views, a private bar serving premium cocktails, and light snacks like fruit skewers, cookies, and ice cream. Day passes will be available for purchase, including upgraded loungers and umbrellas, with villas also available to rent for an even more elevated experience.
Vibe Shore Club, an exclusive, adult-only are at NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

Horizon Park & Hammock Bay (Coming 2026)
For those seeking friendly competition, the complimentary Horizon Park will offer lawn games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini golf course, and a half sports court. If ultimate relaxation is your goal, Hammock Bay will feature over 50 hammocks for an afternoon nap, a dedicated bar, and will be conveniently located near the BBQ buffet.
Horizon Park, where you can enjoy beach games and more on NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

New Welcome Plaza (Coming Winter 2025)
Start your island day in style at the new welcome plaza, offering shade and an overlook bridge 12 metres above the ocean for stunning photo opportunities of the coastline.
The new Arrival Plaza at NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

Splash Harbour (Coming Summer 2026)
Little ones will love the new complimentary Splash Harbour, a 3,400-square-foot splash pad packed with interactive fountains and aquatic features. Parents can relax at the adjacent shaded bar and lounge, making it a perfect spot for families.
Splash Harbour, a dedicated kid's waterpark on NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay
Island Delights: Food, Drink & Activities
Great Stirrup Cay is designed for endless fun and relaxation, with a fantastic array of food and drink options, many of which are included in your cruise fare.

Complimentary Dining Options
Guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay can indulge in diverse and complimentary food options. Enjoy classic beachside fare like burgers, hot dogs, and jerk chicken from various grills. The Jumbey Beach Grill serves island-style barbecue, salads, pizza, and desserts. Abaco Taco offers tasty fish, chicken, and beef tacos, while the Tropic Like It's Hot food truck provides fresh items such as fish and pork sandwiches. A new 8,500-square-foot beach buffet features a pizza station and hot/cold food, all included in your cruise fare. Guests at the exclusive Silver Cove also have access to a private buffet.
Enjoy dining beachside from food trucks at NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

Drinks & Beverage Packages
Your Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package works on Great Stirrup Cay, allowing unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The 'More At Sea™' package covers spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, and bottled/draft beer up to $15, plus fountain soda and juices. The island offers various bars, such as the Lighthouse Bar, Bacardi Bar (tropical drinks), Beach Bar, Bertram's Bar, and Patron Bar (margaritas). Silver Cove guests enjoy an exclusive Moet Champagne Bar and a private bar. Future enhancements by Winter 2025 and Summer 2026 include two swim-up bars at the new Great Life Lagoon and a Grotto Bar at Great Tides Waterpark.
Pool Area with Swim Up Bars at NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

Thrilling Activities & Relaxation
Great Stirrup Cay offers an extensive array of activities for all travellers. Guests can relax on pristine beaches, experience the zip line adventure, or explore marine life by snorkelling or scuba diving. Private cabanas are available for luxury, and watersports like kayaking are offered. A unique option is to swim with the famous pigs at Treasure Island. Significant new amenities are arriving in phases: by Winter 2025, a new 2,600 sq. metre (28,000 sq. ft.) heated Great Life Lagoon oceanfront pool with swim-up bars will debut. By Summer 2026, the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark will open, featuring 19 waterslides and cliffside jumps. Additional new areas include a complimentary Splash Harbour for children, Horizon Park (games), and Hammock Bay (relaxation).
Hammock Bay, the perfect spot to relax on NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay
Silver Cove: The Ultimate Exclusive Retreat
For an even more luxurious escape, Silver Cove is a private retreat within Great Stirrup Cay, offering an exclusive and indulgent experience. While not exclusively for Haven and Suite guests, it provides unparalleled comfort and privacy.
- Private Villas: Rent magnificent beach villas for the day, ranging from the cozy Studio Villa for two, to the larger Family Villa for up to eight, or the spacious Two-Bedroom Villa accommodating over 16 people. Each villa is equipped with comfortable seating, a cooler stocked with water and soda, a ceiling fan, and offers air conditioning, a full restroom, and unobstructed views.
- Exclusive Amenities: Silver Cove guests enjoy access to a beautifully maintained private beach, an exclusive pool area with ample loungers and cabanas, and a dedicated bar serving a variety of refreshing drinks and cocktails. There's also an exclusive Moet Champagne Bar and a private bar only for villa guests. Guests also benefit from an exclusive buffet and access to the Mandara Spa®.

What Makes Great Stirrup Cay Different?
Great Stirrup Cay truly stands apart as Norwegian Cruise Line's private island due to its impressive size, offering significantly more space and experiences than many other private islands. Its direct ownership by Norwegian Cruise Line ensures a highly personalised visit, as they control all development and maintain high standards. This control also allows for a diverse range of activities, from tranquil beaches to thrilling watersports and ziplining, catering to all types of travellers. Norwegian Cruise Line is dedicated to enhancing "The Great Life" on the island, aiming to welcome over one million guests in 2026 across 15 ships, including new vessels like Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.
Ready to experience "The Great Life" yourself? Book your next Caribbean or Bahamas cruise today and discover why Great Stirrup Cay is truly unique.
Great Stirrup Cay: Frequently Asked Questions
The first enhancements, including the new pier and expansive pool area (Great Life Lagoon), are scheduled to open in late 2025. Additional features like the Great Tides Waterpark, Splash Harbour, Horizon Park, and Hammock Bay will be introduced progressively throughout 2026. The Vibe Shore Club is expected in early 2026.
Yes, if you've purchased a Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package that works on the ship, it also works on Great Stirrup Cay. This includes a wide selection of spirits, cocktails, wines, bottled or draft beer, as well as unlimited fountain soda and juices.
Great Stirrup Cay offers a mix of complimentary and paid activities.
Complimentary activities include: Beach access, general pool areas (including loungers), the new Splash Harbour, Horizon Park, and Hammock Bay.
Activities with an additional charge include: Renting cabanas, access to the Great Tides Waterpark, Vibe Shore Club, Silver Cove, Jet Karts, and various shore excursions like swimming with pigs at nearby Treasure Island.
Yes, as part of the enhancements, the Vibe Shore Club will debut in early 2026, offering an exclusive adults-only (18+) area with a private beach, bar, and premium lounging spaces. Day passes will be available for purchase.
Absolutely! The new 1.4-acre Great Life Lagoon pool, opening late 2025, will feature a zero-entry, beach-style entrance leading to an exciting splash zone with playful water features for kids. Just steps away, families can also enjoy Splash Harbour, a 3,400-square-foot complimentary splash pad with interactive fountains and aquatic elements. Children must be at least 36” (0.9m) tall for slides and climbing structures in Splash Harbour, but kids of all heights and ages are welcome for other water toys.
The Great Tides Waterpark will have varying height requirements:
Tidal Tower: Guests must be at least 42” (1.1m) tall for eight thrilling waterslides.
Cliffside Cove: Guests must be at least 48” (1.2m) tall for two more waterslides and the 10 and 15-foot cliff jumps.
Kids' splash zone: Waterslides and activities here have minimum height requirements ranging from 36” (0.9m) to 40” (1.0m), depending on the specific attraction.
Norwegian Cruise Line has carefully planned and managed the construction to ensure it has no impact on the guest experience. All existing areas and amenities on Great Stirrup Cay remain fully accessible and comfortable, allowing guests to enjoy their day without disruption.