With a water park, pool, children’s areas and relaxation spaces, Great Stirrup Cay brings together experiences for different generations
By Krooze Editorial Team
Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, has gained new attractions that expand the options for families during their port call. The main new feature is Great Tides Waterpark, a water park of approximately 24,300 square meters that opened in September 2026.
The space features 19 waterslides, cliff jumps, children’s areas and a lazy river with an immersive tunnel. The island’s facilities also include the Great Life Lagoon pool, Splash Harbor, designed for younger children, and the adults-only Vibe Shore Club.
Since August, Great Stirrup Cay has also had a pier capable of accommodating two ships simultaneously. Covering nearly 109 hectares, the island offers options for different ages and profiles. Check out five ways to enjoy a family day.
1. Choose your adventure level at Great Tides Waterpark
Great Tides Waterpark is home to the island’s most thrilling attractions. One of them is Tidal Tower, a 52-meter-tall structure with eight waterslides, including Tropic Spiral, presented as the world’s first Nautilus-style waterslide.
Those looking for more adrenaline can try the 3- and 4.5-meter jumps at Cliffside Leap. Meanwhile, The Great Slide allows up to four people to ride down together on the same tube.
For a more relaxing experience, Wandering River stretches for more than 243 meters and passes through an illuminated immersive tunnel. Younger children can enjoy Splash Cay, equipped with eight mini waterslides and a giant water bucket.
2. Alternate between the pool and children’s activities
Great Life Lagoon is a temperature-controlled pool, larger than two Olympic-size pools, with complimentary lounge chairs and two swim-up bars.
Just steps away is Splash Harbor, a complimentary splash area designed for young children. The proximity between the spaces allows parents, children and grandparents to enjoy different activities without being far apart.
3. Set aside time to relax at Silver Cove
Silver Cove is an alternative for those who prefer to spend the day in a more private setting. The area features air-conditioned villas, an infinity pool and services from Silver Cove Spa.
The experiences and accommodations available on-site can be booked in advance, subject to availability for each sailing.
4. Try the island’s dining options
Meals are included at venues such as Jumbey Beach Grill, with buffet options including salads and burgers, and Abaco Taco, dedicated to handcrafted tacos.
Inside the water park, there is a buffet at no additional cost and three food trucks with à la carte items: Low Tide Smoke, serving American barbecue; Catch of the Cay, specializing in seafood; and Tidal Treats, with handcrafted ice cream.
For drinks, the island offers options such as Beach Lounge by Aperol. At the park, Floataway Bar is located in the middle of Wandering River, while Grotto Bar is in Cliffside Cove.
5. Enjoy an adults-only area
Vibe Shore Club is an area reserved for guests aged 18 and over, with a private beach and its own bar. The idea is to offer a more relaxing environment for adults during their time on the island.
Access can be booked before the trip, as can water park admission, Silver Cove experiences and shore excursions. Purchases can be made through the myNCL app or on board.
Cruises that visit Great Stirrup Cay
The island is included in different Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries departing from Florida. For example, Norwegian Joy will offer three- and four-day cruises from Miami, calling at Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, between November 2026 and April 2027.
Norwegian Joy
Embarkation and disembarkation: Miami, Florida
4 nights
Itinerary: Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau
During the same period, Norwegian Aqua will offer seven-day Caribbean itineraries, combining the private island with destinations such as Puerto Plata, St. Thomas and Tortola.
Norwegian Aqua
Embarkation and disembarkation: Miami, Florida
7 nights
Itinerary: Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola and Great Stirrup Cay
Great Stirrup Cay will also be included in the itineraries of the future Norwegian Aura. Set to debut in 2027, the ship will sail Caribbean itineraries visiting Roatán, Harvest Caye and Cozumel, in addition to the island in the Bahamas. Prices and available attractions may vary according to the date, itinerary and services booked.
Norwegian Aura
Embarkation and disembarkation: Miami, Florida
7 nights
Itinerary: Roatán, Harvest Caye, Cozumel and Great Stirrup Cay
For more information, consult your travel agent!
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