Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced in April 2025 a major expansion of its private island Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, aiming to upgrade infrastructure, introduce new attractions, and increase capacity through phased construction completing into late 2026. Great Stirrup Cay was the first major private island acquired and developed by Norwegian Cruise Line in the Bahamas.
New Great Tides Waterpark and Family Amenities
The centerpiece of the expansion is Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre complex offering up to 19 water slides and features. Highlights include an 800-foot dynamic river, multiple tower slides, racer slides at Cliffside Cove, and dedicated zones for children with splash areas
and lounging spaces. The waterpark represents the Caribbean’s only family slide that accommodates up to four riders at once, enhancing family-oriented activities on the island.
Adventure Features: Cliff Jumps and Zipline
Norwegian is adding two cliff-jump platforms at 10 and 15 feet, marking the first such attractions on a cruise line private island. These installations will complement the existing Flightline zipline, creating a concentrated adventure zone for thrill-seeking visitors.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Pier and Tram System
The expansion includes a new multi-ship pier to replace tender operations, allowing larger vessels or simultaneous dual-ship dockings. This pier is intended to reduce embarkation wait times and improve passenger experience on three- and four-night Bahamas cruises
and longer Caribbean itineraries. Additionally, an island-wide tram system will serve initial stops at the welcome plaza and main beach areas, facilitating guest mobility across the island.
Great Life Lagoon and Guest Convenience
A central feature is the Great Life Lagoon, a 1.4-acre heated pool with beach-style entries, two swim-up bars, and family splash zones surrounded by cabanas and loungers. This amenity offers an ocean-adjacent pool alternative close to the new pier for guest comfort and convenience.
Premium Offerings: Silver Cove and Vibe Beach Club
Silver Cove, the upscale enclave on the island, includes an oceanfront lagoon, spa services through Mandara Spa, private villas, and exclusive dining at the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar.
Plans also include a standalone adults-only Vibe Beach Club modeled after similar concepts on Norwegian ships, featuring private cabanas, upgraded loungers, and premium bar services for guests seeking a quieter setting.
Island Neighborhoods Tailored to Visitor Types
The island’s layout will segment into distinct neighborhoods catering to families, adventure enthusiasts, spa visitors, and adults-only groups. Horizon Park, a lawn-style recreation area, will support casual games and social gatherings, enhancing the variety of guest experiences available on the island.
Construction Timeline and Deployment Through 2027
Construction and phased openings are scheduled through late 2025 and into 2026, with multiple Norwegian vessels from Miami, Port Canaveral, and other East Coast homeports calling at Great
Stirrup Cay on short Bahamas cruises and longer Caribbean itineraries through 2027.
Impact on Cruise Passengers
The new pier will eliminate tendering delays, while expanded activities including the waterpark, cliff jumps, zipline, heated lagoon, and tram will diversify on-island options. Passengers will have access to advanced booking of waterpark elements and enhanced beverage package access, allowing for a more resort-style stop on shorter cruises.
Industry Context and Significance
Great Stirrup Cay was the first private island acquired and developed by a major cruise line in the Bahamas, pioneering the concept of private cruise line destinations. The Bahamas government has recognized the island’s evolution as a crucial component of
the nation’s cruise economy. The expansion reflects efforts to differentiate Norwegian Cruise Line’s Bahamas offerings amid escalating industry competition including advanced offshore resort amenities and multi-ship berths.
