The all-new Great Stirrup Cay is more than an island—it’s your gateway to The Great Life. Dive into a sparkling new pool, make a splash at the thrilling water park, and soak up a private paradise filled with unforgettable experiences. With exciting enhancements on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to book.
First, what is Great Stirrup Cay? This is Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas. It’s already a beautiful island and a great stop on their Caribbean and Bahamian sailings. It’s historically been challenging because there was no permanent dock or port meaning it was only accessible via tenders from the ship. Any kind of inclement weather meant it was unsafe to tender, and it was sadly frequently a skipped port. However, a brand new pier is being now and should open later in 2025 already making a huge improvement.
Now even more incredible experiences are coming to Great Stirrup Cay!
So, what’s new?
The Great Life Lagoon: A pool the size of a cruise ship? Yup! NCL's new 28,000-square-foot heated pool features two swim-up bars, water features, ALL the ocean views, cabanas, and more.
Experiences for All Ages: Want some space from the kids? You can find it at the adults-only Vibe Shore Club. Have kids you need to entertain for the day? Head to Splash Harbor, the new kids' play area, and Horizon Park, the new family zone where there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Vibe Shore Club will have villas available to rent, day beds, and premium lounge seating.
Soak Up the Thrills!: From high-speed jet karts (WHAT?) to the water slides at the Great Tides Waterpark, get ready for non-stop excitement at Great Stirrup Cay. Here you’ll find 19 water slides including a family ride where up to four can slide at once! This will also have a lazy river (or what they’re calling a “dynamic river” which is slightly faster!) and Cliff Jumps where you can leap 10 or 15 feet into the pool! I’m super excited to hear that some of the slides will include an inner tube conveyor. (I don’t have to carry that inner tubs up all those stairs!)
When is this happening? This will be rolling out in phases.
The pier construction should be complete by the end of the year and will enable up to two Norwegian Cruise Line ships to dock right at the island!
Artist rendering / map of the new Great Stirrup Cay
The water park is tentatively scheduled for summer 2026. Vibe Shore Club should be open by Spring 2026. The Great Life Lagoon (pool) should open in early 2026.
We expect the waterpark and the adults-only area to have a cover charge, but the great kids splash area should be included.
We can’t wait to see the changes on Great Stirrup Cay! Ready to plan your next Norwegian cruise with a stop at Great Stirrup Cay? Reach out to us to start the planning and contact us here!