Norwegian Cruise Line
Great Stirrup Cay
Bahamas · Opened 1977 · Updated 2026
About Great Stirrup Cay
The first cruise line private island (since 1977) is undergoing a massive $200+ million transformation. The new Great Tides Waterpark with 19 slides opens summer 2026, alongside a new pier (no more tendering), 1.4-acre pool, and adults-only Vibe Shore Club.
Recent Updates
Multi-phase renovation: new pier (December 2025), Great Life Lagoon 1.4-acre pool with swim-up bars (late 2025), Vibe Shore Club adults-only retreat (2025), Horizon Park with pickleball (spring 2026), Great Tides Waterpark with 19 slides (summer 2026).
Key Features
What's Included vs Extra Cost
Included in Cruise Fare
- ✓Beach access and loungers
- ✓Great Life Lagoon pool access
- ✓Complimentary food at buffet venues
- ✓Splash Harbor kids splash pad
- ✓Tram service
- ✓Welcome Center facilities
- ✓Beach activities
- ✓Hammock Bay lounge area
Extra Cost
- $Great Tides Waterpark access
- $Vibe Shore Club adults-only retreat
- $Private cabanas
- $Shore excursions
- $Water sports equipment
- $Premium beverages
- $Jet kart experience
Food & Drink
- •Multiple complimentary buffet locations
- •Two swim-up bars in Great Life Lagoon
- •Vibe Shore Club private bar
- •Hammock Bay bar
- •Beach grills
- •Grab-and-go food stations
- •Ice cream and snack shacks
Tips
- ✓The waterpark opens summer 2026 so book excursions in advance
- ✓Visit Vibe Shore Club for an adults-only experience away from families
- ✓Over 1 million guests expected in 2026 so arrive early
- ✓The new pier means faster boarding and no more tendering
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Ask CruiseGPTFrequently Asked Questions
When does Great Stirrup Cay's waterpark open?
The Great Tides Waterpark with 19 waterslides opens in summer 2026. It features the 170-foot Tidal Tower, an 800-foot Dynamic River, and cliff jumps at Cliffside Cove.
Do you still need to tender at Great Stirrup Cay?
No, a new pier opened in December 2025, eliminating the need for tender boats. Ships now dock directly, making access much faster and easier.
Is the waterpark included in the cruise fare?
No, the Great Tides Waterpark is an add-on purchase. However, the Great Life Lagoon pool, beaches, buffet dining, and many other amenities are complimentary.
How does Great Stirrup Cay compare to CocoCay?
After the 2026 renovations, Great Stirrup Cay will rival CocoCay with 19 waterslides (vs 14), a massive 1.4-acre pool, and the adults-only Vibe Shore Club. CocoCay currently has the edge with the helium balloon and zip line.