Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is undertaking a massive expansion of its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas, the latest cruise line to enter the race to redefine the private island experience for its guests. With a multi-phase development plan, NCL is investing heavily to introduce new attractions, and increase guest satisfaction. The largest piece of this transformation is the Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in summer 2026, along with other upgrades debuting in late 2025 and throughout 2026.
Great Tides Waterpark (Summer 2026)
The nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark is the highlight of NCL’s expansion. Spanning the size of several football fields, the waterpark will feature a variety of attractions, many of which are firsts in the cruise industry. Key highlights include:
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19 Waterslides at Tidal Tower: The 170-foot-tall Tidal Tower will house eight thrilling waterslides, including two high-intensity slides with drops and climbs on inner tubes. Other slides include racing slides, spiraling tube slides, and body slides. Select slides will feature conveyor belts to transport rafts to the top, eliminating the need for guests to carry them.
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Cliffside Cove: This area introduces the cruise industry’s first cliff jumps at 10 and 15 feet, offering adventure seekers a plunge into crystal-clear waters. It also includes racer slides and a unique family slide accommodating up to four guests simultaneously. The Grotto Bar, a hidden cave bar tucked under the family slide, provides a shaded spot for cocktails and people-watching.
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Dynamic River: Stretching nearly 800 feet, this river offers a current that’s faster than a typical lazy river, with multiple entry points, including a wading pool with a nearby swim-up bar. A highlight is an illuminated grotto tunnel with a bioluminescent scene for a multi-sensory experience. Cabanas will be placed along the river and near the kids’ splash zone for premium access.
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Kids’ Splash Zone: A 9,000-square-foot area designed for children, featuring eight mini slides, interactive water features, and a 40-foot-tall oversized tipping bucket.
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Jet Karts Aquatic Racecourse: A shore excursion combining elements of go-karting and jet skiing.
The waterpark is expected to open in summer 2026, positioning Great Stirrup Cay as a direct competitor to other cruise line private islands like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Additional Island Enhancements (Late 2025 and 2026)
Beyond the waterpark, NCL is rolling out a series of upgrades across Great Stirrup Cay. These enhancements, some debuting in late 2025 and others in 2026, include:
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Multi-Ship Pier: Scheduled for completion by late 2025, the new pier will allow two vessels to dock simultaneously, eliminating the need for tender boats.
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Great Life Lagoon: A 1.4-acre heated pool, spanning 28,000 square feet, will debut in early 2026. It will have two swim-up bars (Reef Bar with a DJ and Waves Bar with a beach-style entrance), complimentary loungers, and private cabanas and villas with ocean and pool views. The lagoon includes a zero-entry splash area with water features for kids.
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Splash Harbor: Adjacent to the Great Life Lagoon, this 3,400-square-foot splash pad will feature interactive water fountains and a shaded bar and lounge for parents.
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Vibe Shore Club: An adults-only (18+) premium area, opening in spring 2026, will bring NCL’s onboard Vibe Beach Club concept to the island. With a capacity of 200–250 guests, it offers a private bar, hanging day beds, premium lounge seating, and rentable villas for an upscale, serene experience. A day pass is required for entry, with additional charges for villas.
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Horizon Park: This complimentary recreational area, debuting in spring 2026, will feature lawn-style games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini-golf course, and a half sports court.
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Hammock Bay: This area will include over 50 hammocks, a dedicated bar, and will be close to the BBQ buffet. It is set to open in spring 2026.
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Silver Cove Expansion: The exclusive retreat will see new luxury villas (accommodating 6–16 guests) with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, outdoor showers, and personalized service. Look for an upgraded buffet and new upscale dining options within Silver Cove.
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Welcome Plaza and Tram Service: A new welcome plaza will greet guests and an island-wide tram service, debuting in late 2025, will make it easier to navigate the 270-acre island, connecting key areas like the pool, beach, and Silver Cove.
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Dining and Beverage Upgrades: Existing dining options like Jumbey Beach Grill and Abaco Taco will remain, complemented by new upscale dining in Silver Cove and expanded bar menus with tropical cocktails, frozen drinks, and local flavors. Guests can use their beverage package on the island, which includes spirits, cocktails, wines, beers up to $15, fountain sodas, and juices.
Great Stirrup Cay, acquired by NCL in 1977 as the cruise industry’s first private island, has historically offered a natural, low-key experience. However, guest demand for more amenities, flexibility, and onboard-style experiences has prompted this overhaul. With only about 50 of the island’s 270 acres currently developed, NCL sees the potential to position Great Stirrup Cay as a direct competitor to other cruise line private islands. Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, located less than a mile away. Carnival’s new Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay expansion, along with Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (2025) and Perfect Day Mexico (2027), all add to the race to offer the best private island experience.