Cruisers, brace yourselves. Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a major change coming to its private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
Starting March 1, 2026, the cruise line’s popular drink package, which is part of More at Sea, will no longer be valid once guests step off the ship and onto the private island.
This means that if you’d like a piña colada, mojito, or even a beer while lounging on the beach, you’ll have to pay out of pocket or purchase a new island-specific beverage package that NCL plans to introduce early next year.
Why This Has Cruisers Talking
The announcement has not gone over well with loyal NCL guests. Many cruisers were excited about the new enhancements coming to Great Stirrup Cay, expecting the same seamless “ship to shore” experience they enjoy at sea.
Instead, they’re now voicing frustration online, calling the change a “cash grab.” Many are comparing it to Carnival’s unpopular policy at its “exclusive destination” Celebration Key, where the Cheers drink package does not extend to the island and prices have been described by cruisers as “over the top.”
On the other hand, Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises still honor their shipboard drink packages at their private islands, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, respectively. This makes Norwegian’s new policy stand out, and not in a good way.
Related: 35+ Things To Do In Perfect Day at CocoCay – Complete Guide
What It Means for Cruisers
While non-alcoholic beverages like water, juices, and iced tea will remain complimentary, guests who want cocktails or beer will need to either pay per drink or buy the upcoming island package.
For many, this may change how they spend their time on Great Stirrup Cay. Some cruisers are already saying they might just stay onboard instead of paying extra for drinks ashore.
Final Thoughts
NCL’s decision to stop honoring the drink package on Great Stirrup Cay starting March 1, 2026, is a big shift and not one that’s earning applause from fans.
Whether this move helps Norwegian boost island profits or ends up alienating loyal cruisers remains to be seen.
What do you think about this change? Please let me know in the comments below.