Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has shared exciting new plans for the transformation of its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. The centerpiece of the project will be the upcoming Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre adventure zone with 19 waterslides, a dynamic river, and several industry-first experiences designed for guests of all ages.
The waterpark is set to debut in Summer 2026, along with a series of island-wide enhancements aimed at giving travelers even more ways to “Escape to the Great Life.”
When I visited Great Stirrup Cay while on Norwegian Encore in February, I could already see signs of the big changes coming. Construction was underway, and you could tell something exciting was in the works! The island itself was absolutely beautiful with powdery white sand and clear turquoise water.
One of the biggest updates I’m thrilled about is that Great Stirrup Cay will no longer be a tender port. The new multi-ship pier will make getting on and off the island so much easier and give guests more time to enjoy their day.
However, there’s so much more that Norwegian Cruise Line has just announced!
Let’s go over what to expect on Great Stirrup Cay – from the new waterpark, the upcoming island upgrades, and how you can win a cruise to experience it all for yourself.
Spoiler alert – there’s a Dynamic River (like a lazy river but better).
A New Era for Great Stirrup Cay
At 270 acres, Great Stirrup Cay is already one of NCL’s most popular destinations, and the upcoming upgrades are set to make it the “greatest private island in the Caribbean.” The expansion will include a heated pool with swim-up bars, new dining and lounging areas, and added activities for both relaxation and adventure.
Highlights of the Great Tides Waterpark:
- 19 Waterslides ranging from high-thrill drops to family-friendly adventures
- A nearly 800-foot Dynamic River with an accelerated current and illuminated grotto tunnel
- Tidal Tower with eight massive slides, including the two tallest on the island
- Cliffside Cove featuring the cruise industry’s first 10- and 15-foot cliff jumps
- The Caribbean’s only family slide where four guests can ride together
- A 9,000-square-foot kids’ splash zone with an oversized tipping bucket and mini slides
- Convenient conveyor belts on select slides to carry rafts to the top of the tower
- The Grotto Bar, a cave-style bar under the family slide for cocktails and people watching
New Adventure: Jet Karts
For adrenaline seekers, the island will debut a unique mini aquatic racecourse with Jet Karts that combine elements of go-karting and jet skiing. This is one of the most anticipated new shore excursions!
More Ways to Relax and Play
NCL is also adding experiences beyond the waterpark, offering something for every type of cruiser:
- Great Life Lagoon: A massive 1.4-acre heated pool with swim-up bars, private cabanas, and complimentary loungers.
- Splash Harbor: A 3,400-square-foot splash pad with interactive fountains and a shaded bar for parents.
- Horizon Park: A new recreation area with lawn games, pickleball courts, mini golf, and sports courts.
- Hammock Bay: Over 50 hammocks and a dedicated bar for the ultimate beachside nap.
- Vibe Shore Club: An adults-only escape featuring a private bar, premium loungers, and day beds. Villas and day passes will be available for an upgraded experience.
A new multi-ship pier, welcome plaza, and island-wide tram service will also make getting around Great Stirrup Cay easier than ever!
Win a Cruise to Experience the Upgrades
To celebrate the transformation, NCL is running the “Escape to the Great Life” Sweepstakes, giving away 250 cruises to Great Stirrup Cay. Winners will enjoy a four-day voyage in August 2026 for two guests in a balcony stateroom, including the More At Sea™ package.
- Sweepstakes dates: July 29 – Aug. 31, 2025
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. and Canada residents (excluding Quebec)
- Enter at: www.ncl.com/great-stirrup-cay
NCL will also host pop-up activations in New York City (July 29–31, 2025) and Miami (August 2025), offering immersive island experiences and more chances to win.
Great Stirrup Cay Itineraries Heat Up in 2026
Norwegian plans to welcome over one million guests to the enhanced island in 2026. Both Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna will offer seven-day Caribbean itineraries visiting Great Stirrup Cay along with ports in the Dominican Republic, U.S. Virgin Islands, and British Virgin Islands.
For a limited time, NCL is offering up to $1,500 off Caribbean and Bahamas sailings through “The Great Life Sale,” plus an added $50 onboard credit for Latitudes Rewards members. Guests can also take advantage of the More at Sea™ package, which includes unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursion credits, and Wi-Fi.
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Have you been to Great Stirrup Cay before, or is it on your cruise bucket list? What do you think of these new upgrades? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!