Norwegian Cruise Line is rolling out a major reimagining of its private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay, in a bid to rival Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and deliver a next‑level shore experience. Set to debut in phases starting winter 2025 and expanding into summer 2026, the upgrades include a $150 million pier to berth two ships simultaneously, heated pools, tram service, family zones, and the centerpiece – Great Tides Waterpark.
Throughout winter 2025, guests will see the new Great Life Lagoon – a 1.4‑acre heated pool area with dual swim‑up bars – paired with the Splash Harbor kids zone, Horizon Park recreational lawn, Hammock Bay relaxation area, and the exclusive adults‑only Vibe Shore Club. All these come alongside a welcome plaza and tram transport to make the island more accessible and enjoyable.
At the Heart: Great Tides Waterpark
Come summer 2026, Norwegian will unveil the six‑acre Great Tides Waterpark. This thrilling destination will host 19 waterslides anchored by a 170‑ft Tidal Tower with racing slides, tube spirals, and conveyor‑belt assisted rides. Other highlights include the two‑cliff jumps at Cliffside Cove (10 and 15 feet), the only four‑person family slide in the Caribbean, a 9,000 sq ft kids’ splash zone, and an 800‑ft dynamic river featuring a bioluminescent grotto tunnel with cabanas and swim‑up bars. For a single extra admission fee, guests can access all park attractions, whereas existing amenities remain complimentary.
Island Overhaul Inspires Demand
These enhancements respond to growing demand: Great Stirrup Cay hosted around 400,000 guests in 2024, but Norwegian projects it will welcome over a million cruisers in 2026 as more ships call on the upgraded facilities. Installing a two‑ship pier eliminates tendering and streamlines boarding, boosting satisfaction and revenue across 15 cruise itineraries that regularly include the island.
These investments mirror a broader industry trend – cruise lines increasingly prioritize destination control through private islands, resort-style attractions, and immersive branding to both limit overtourism pressure at traditional ports and enhance onboard-offboard integration. NCL is positioning Great Stirrup Cay as “the greatest island in the Caribbean” with amenities designed for all ages and travel styles.
