Great Stirrup Cay to debut Great Tides Waterpark

Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Game-Changing Expansion at Great Stirrup Cay with Waterpark and More Coming in 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL) has announced an exciting transformation of its private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay, unveiling a lineup of exhilarating attractions and serene spaces set to debut beginning this year, with the headline feature—a massive six-acre waterpark—launching in summer 2026. These upgrades promise to redefine the island experience for cruise guests, offering more ways to relax, play, and escape to what NCL calls “The Great Life.”

🌊 Welcome to the Future: Great Tides Waterpark

At the heart of the island's transformation is Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre aquatic playground that will feature 19 waterslides, a 9,000-square-foot kids splash zone, and the cruise industry’s first cliffside jump experience. Towering at 170 feet, the thrilling Tidal Tower will boast eight adrenaline-pumping slides, including two of the tallest in the Caribbean, with racer slides, tube spirals, and body slides for all levels of adventure.

For families, Cliffside Cove brings a multi-slide family slide, cliff jumps from 10 and 15 feet, and a hidden cave Grotto Bar—perfect for sipping cocktails while enjoying the island vibe. The nearby dynamic river—not your average lazy river—features an 800-foot loop with a brisk current, swim-up bar, and a magical bioluminescent grotto tunnel. Cabanas placed near the splash zones will offer prime access for those looking to lounge in comfort while staying close to the fun.

🌴 Beyond the Slides: Relaxation and Recreation Await

The island transformation isn’t just about thrills—it’s also about indulgence and relaxation. Guests can soon enjoy:

• The Great Life Lagoon: A luxurious 1.4-acre heated pool area with two swim-up bars, private cabanas and villas, and a beach-entry splash zone for kids.

• Vibe Shore Club: An upgraded, adults-only oasis with a private bar, hanging daybeds, premium loungers, and oceanfront villas available for rent.

• Hammock Bay: A serene escape with over 50 hammocks, a bar, and easy access to NCL’s BBQ buffet.

• Horizon Park: A new recreational area featuring pickleball courts, mini golf, lawn games, and more for families and fun-lovers alike.

• Splash Harbor: A splash pad with shaded seating for parents to unwind while kids cool off.

Adventure junkies will also love the jet kart mini aquatic racecourse, blending jet skiing and go-karting into one high-octane shore excursion.

🏝 What's Debuting Sooner?

Some enhancements are set to open later this year, including:

• A brand-new heated pool.

• A scenic Welcome Plaza.

• A multi-ship pier for easier island access.

• A convenient island-wide tram system to shuttle guests around the expansive 270-acre destination.

🚢 Bigger, Bolder Itineraries in 2026

With the expansion in full swing, NCL plans to bring one million guests to Great Stirrup Cay across 15 ships in 2026. New ships like Norwegian Aqua™ and Norwegian Luna™ will offer seven-day Caribbean sailings with stops at the upgraded island and additional destinations including the U.S. and British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.

🎉 Enter to Win: “Escape to The Great Life” Sweepstakes

To celebrate this massive upgrade, NCL is launching the “Escape to The Great Life” Sweepstakes from July 29 to August 31, 2025. The giveaway will award 250 cruise packages to Great Stirrup Cay, with winners enjoying a four-day voyage in August 2026 for two in a balcony stateroom, plus the More At Sea™ perks package.

NCL is also activating pop-up experiences in New York City and Miami to promote the sweepstakes. A tropical-themed engagement at 104 Grand Street in SoHo will run from July 29–31, complete with steel drums, immersive visuals, beachy merch, and more. Hidden “escape hatches” around NYC and Miami will offer more chances to win.

🌞 The Great Life Sale: Up to $1,500 Off + Onboard Credit

Right now, guests can take advantage of The Great Life Sale, with savings of up to $1,500 on Caribbean and Bahamas cruises. NCL Latitudes Members get an additional $50 onboard credit, and every guest can enjoy the More At Sea™ package, which includes:

• Unlimited open bar 🍹

• Specialty dining 🍽

• Shore excursion credits 🛳

• High-speed Wi-Fi 📶

• Free airfare and extra guest sail free offers (on select sailings) ✈️