A New Chapter for Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will begin a new phase of development for its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, located in the Bahamas. At the heart of this transformation are plans for a large-scale water park, expanded family-friendly facilities, and a variety of activities designed for different types of travellers.
New Facilities Opening in 2025
Some upgrades will open as early as late 2025, including a heated pool, a multi-ship pier, a welcoming plaza, and a new island-wide tram system for easier transportation around the island.
The Great Life Lagoon will include private cabanas and villas, complimentary loungers, two swim-up bars, and kid-friendly play zones. Each swim-up bar will have a unique ambiance—one featuring music with a DJ and another offering a quieter experience with a beach-style entry.
But it is in the summer of 2026 that the most impressive innovations will be introduced.
Great Tides Waterpark: A Space for All Ages
The new Great Tides Waterpark, spanning nearly six acres, will feature 19 waterslides, an 800-foot dynamic river, a 9,000-square-foot kids’ splash zone, and two cliff-jumping platforms at 10 and 15 feet. The central attraction, the Tidal Tower, will rise 170 feet and include eight slides. Some will be accessible via conveyor belts, eliminating the need for guests to carry their own float tubes.
A family slide will allow four people to ride at once, and there will be various slide styles – mat racing slides, tube slides with spirals, and body slides. The kids’ area will include a 40-foot tipping bucket, eight mini slides, and interactive play features.
The Dynamic River and Relaxation Zones
The dynamic river will offer a faster-paced alternative to a traditional lazy river, with several entry points, including a wading pool near a swim-up bar. A key feature will be a tunnel with glowing visual effects, designed to create an immersive environment.
Family cabanas will be placed along the river and near the kids’ splash area, providing convenient access to these popular zones.
New Excursions and Activities
A new water track with jet karts, combining elements of jet skiing and go-karting, will be added to the list of onshore excursions for those seeking more action.
Family and Adults-Only Spaces
The newly designed Splash Harbor, located near the main pool, will serve as a secondary splash area with shaded seating for adults to relax while children play.
Horizon Park, a new recreational area, will include lawn games, a mini-golf course, pickleball courts, and a multi-use sports court.
For relaxation, Hammock Bay will feature over 50 hammocks and a dedicated bar, located near the island’s BBQ buffet.
Adults looking for a more exclusive experience will have access to Vibe Shore Club, a dedicated adults-only area with a private bar, hanging daybeds, and rentable villas. Access is available with a day pass that includes upgraded lounge chairs and umbrellas.
Itineraries Featuring Great Stirrup Cay in 2026
With the planned enhancements, Norwegian Cruise Line expects to welcome up to one million guests to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026 across 15 ships. The line’s newest vessels, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, will offer seven-day Caribbean cruises from Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral), visiting Great Stirrup Cay along with ports in the Dominican Republic, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the British Virgin Islands.
