Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Game-Changing Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced major enhancements to its exclusive Bahamian private island, Great Stirrup Cay, headlined by the spectacular new Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in summer 2026.

This bold expansion marks one of NCL’s most exciting island transformations yet, blending high-energy thrills, family fun, and serene escapes across the 270-acre tropical paradise.

Dive Into Adventure at Great Tides Waterpark

Covering nearly six acres, Great Tides Waterpark promises to be a must-visit destination for cruisers.

The park’s standout feature will be a 170-foot-tall ‘Tidal Tower’ with eight heart-racing waterslides, including the two tallest slides on the island. Whether you're zipping down spiralling tube slides, racing your friends on mats, or free-falling on body slides, there’s something for every thrill-seeker.

Other Standout Features Include:

• The cruise industry's first-ever cliff-jumping platforms (10ft and 15ft high)

• A dynamic river- faster and more immersive than the average lazy river

• A 9,000-square-foot kids' splash zone with mini slides, tipping buckets and fountains

• The Caribbean’s only four-person family slide

• Hidden swim-up bars and a tucked-away cave lounge at The Grotto Bar

Families will love the variety at Great Tides Waterpark, while loungers and cabana-goers can stay close to the action without missing a beat.

New Island Attractions For All Ages

Great Stirrup Cay’s upgrades go beyond water-based fun. Norwegian Cruise Line is introducing a jet-kart aquatic racetrack, blending go-karting and jet skiing for the ultimate water adventure.

Also Coming Soon to Great Stirrup Cay:

• The Great Life Lagoon: A 1.4-acre pool complex with private cabanas, shaded lounges, and two swim-up bars

• Hammock Bay: Over 50 hammocks and a laid-back bar near the fan-favourite BBQ buffet

• Horizon Park: A new games area with pickleball, mini golf, lawn games and sports courts

• Splash Harbor: A fun, interactive splash pad for younger kids

• Vibe Shore Club: An exclusive, adults-only retreat with premium loungers, villas and a beach bar

To top it off, guests will benefit from a multi-ship pier, a new welcome plaza, and an island-wide tram service for easier access to every corner of the island.

Win Your Way to Paradise

To celebrate these exciting changes, NCL is giving away 250 free cruises to Great Stirrup Cay through its “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes, running until 31st August 2025.

Winners will enjoy a four-day cruise for two in a balcony stateroom, complete with NCL’s More At Sea™ package covering drinks, dining, WiFi and more.

Residents of the UK, US and Canada can enter online, and lucky visitors in New York City and Miami can take part in immersive pop-up “escape hatch” experiences that bring the spirit of the island to life.

Bigger Ships, Bolder Itineraries

In 2026, 15 NCL ships will visit Great Stirrup Cay, welcoming over one million guests.

This includes the debut of Norwegian Aqua™, offering 7-day Caribbean cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral. Additionally, Norwegian Luna will be launching in spring 2026, visiting tropical gems like the Dominican Republic, US Virgin Islands, and British Virgin Islands.