Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Transformative Enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, Featuring the All-New Great Tides Waterpark

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), a leader in global cruise travel, has just shared exciting new details about the massive transformation underway at Great Stirrup Cay, its private island in The Bahamas. Headlining these enhancements is the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in summer 2026. This new addition, along with a host of other incredible experiences, promises to deliver unforgettable adventures and endless relaxation for guests of all ages.

From exhilarating cliff jumps and jet karts to relaxing swim-up bars and vibrant splash zones, the expanded island offerings are designed to elevate every guest’s experience. NCL aims to provide more freedom, flexibility, and opportunities for guests to discover “The Great Life!” at Great Stirrup Cay.

David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line said:

“Great Stirrup Cay has always been a beloved part of the Norwegian Cruise Line guest experience and continues to be one of our highest-rated destinations,”

“At 270 acres, our private island gives us an incredible canvas to reinvent what guests can experience when they escape to ‘The Great Life’ with us. This new waterpark is an outstanding addition to our recent announcement about other amazing new amenities on the island soon to debut. With each phase of our enhancements, we’re bringing ashore more of what our guests love about sailing with NCL. Whether you want to relax by the huge new heated pool – complete with multiple swim-up bars, are looking forward to racing down one of the 19 waterslides with your kids at Great Tides Waterpark, or just want to enjoy the ocean breeze from one of the hammocks at Hammock Bay, Great Stirrup Cay will soon boast even more ways to escape to YOUR ‘great life’ for a memorable vacation on and off the ship. I am thrilled to welcome our guests to the greatest private island in the Caribbean!”

Great Tides Waterpark: Adrenaline-Pumping Thrills and Relaxing Adventures

The heart of the new developments, the Great Tides Waterpark, will boast 19 waterslides, catering to both thrill-seekers and those seeking a more laid-back experience. It will also feature a nearly 800-foot dynamic river, a 9,000-square-foot kids’ splash zone, and the cruise industry’s first-ever cliffside jumps.

Tidal Tower: Standing at an impressive 170 feet, this tower will house eight thrilling waterslides. Highlights include two of the tower’s tallest slides offering splashing drops and thrilling climbs on inner tubes. Guests can also enjoy racing slides, tube slides with large spirals, and exciting body slides. For convenience, select slides will have conveyer belts to transport rafts to the top, eliminating the need for guests to carry them.
Cliffside Cove: Here, families and adventure enthusiasts can enjoy racer slides and two distinct cliff jumps, standing at 10 and 15 feet tall, marking a cruise industry first. This area will also feature the Caribbean’s only family slide, allowing four guests to slide simultaneously. For those observing, The Grotto Bar, a hidden cave bar, will offer a perfect spot for people-watching with a cocktail.
Kids Splash Zone: A 9,000-square-foot aquatic wonderland for children will feature an oversized tipping bucket towering over 40 feet high, eight mini slides, and various interactive water features.
Dynamic River: This immersive water experience will offer an accelerated current, providing a faster and more exciting ride than a typical lazy river. At 800 feet long, guests can enter from several points, including a wading pool with a convenient swim-up bar. A highlight will be an illuminated grotto tunnel with a mesmerizing bioluminescent scene. Well-located cabanas will offer premium access to the dynamic river and kids’ splash zone.

Great Stirrup Cay - Tidal Tower Great Stirrup Cay – Tidal Tower

Great Stirrup Cay - Cliffside Cove Great Stirrup Cay – Cliffside Cove

Great Stirrup Cay - Kids Splash Zone Great Stirrup Cay – Kids Splash Zone

Great Stirrup Cay - Dynamic River Great Stirrup Cay – Dynamic River

More Ways to Enjoy ‘The Great Life’: Island-Wide Enhancements for Everyone

Beyond the waterpark, Great Stirrup Cay is introducing a variety of new experiences:

Jet Karts: An all-new mini aquatic racecourse featuring jet karts, blending go-karting and jet skiing, will soon be a premier shore excursion.
Early Debuts (Late 2025): Guests will soon experience the first wave of enhancements, including a brand-new heated pool, a new multi-ship pier, a scenic welcome plaza, and an island-wide tram service for easy navigation.
The Great Life Lagoon: The recently announced expansive 1.4-acre pool area will include private ocean and pool view cabanas and villas, abundant complimentary loungers, and two swim-up bars. The Reef Bar will offer a vibrant atmosphere with a DJ, while the Waves Bar will feature a beach-style entrance leading to a kids’ splash area.
Splash Harbor: This 3,400-square-foot complimentary splash pad, located near the new heated pool, will feature interactive water fountains, aquatic features, and a shaded bar and lounge for parents.
Horizon Park: A new complimentary recreational area for those who enjoy friendly competition, featuring lawn games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini-golf course, and a half sports court.
Hammock Bay: Designed for ultimate beachside relaxation, this area will feature over 50 hammocks, a dedicated bar, and convenient access to the guest-favorite BBQ buffet.
Vibe Shore Club: For exclusive oceanfront luxury, this adults-only area will offer a chic ambiance with a private bar, hanging day beds, and premium lounge seating. Day passes will be available for purchase, including an upgraded lounger and premium umbrella, with villas also available for rent.

Great Stirrup Cay - The Great Life Lagoon Great Stirrup Cay – The Great Life Lagoon

Great Stirrup Cay - Splash Harbor Great Stirrup Cay – Splash Harbor

Great Stirrup Cay - Horizon Park Great Stirrup Cay – Horizon Park

Great Stirrup Cay - Hammock Bay Great Stirrup Cay – Hammock Bay

Great Stirrup Cay - Vibe Shore Club Great Stirrup Cay – Vibe Shore Club

Norwegian Cruise Line is truly transforming Great Stirrup Cay into “the greatest private island in the Caribbean,” offering an unparalleled mix of adventure and relaxation for every type of traveler.

More details available at https://www.ncl.com/great-stirrup-cay

What do you think about these plans to transform Great Stirrup Cay? Leave a comment below or join us on the Talking Cruise Community forums.

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