Making the most of Great Stirrup Cay
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
NCL has owned the Bahamas' first private island used for cruise passengers since 1977.
At low water, the marina is approximately 12 feet deep and houses the island's four tenders. Great Stirrup Cay has magnificent white-sand beaches, majestic palms and calm, pristine water, with abundant colorful marine life in the surrounding coral reefs.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced that a new pier at its Bahamas private island, Great Stirrup Cay, was to break ground in summer 2024 and finish by late 2025, with an investment of approximately $150 million.
According to an announcement, the new pier will accommodate two large vessels from the company's current and future ship classes at the same time.
Since the project began, new island activities have included more than 16 wave runners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. Existing options include snorkeling, floats, an inflatable hippo slide and parasailing.
The dining facility has a central pizza making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, plus fresh fruits and breads. Two full bars stand on either side for convenience. Its four pavilions, each more than 1800 square feet, contain picnic tables with seating for more than 500 guests.
A $400 million upgrade has taken place, adding a new zip line with 1,000 feet of line, a new half-mile oceanside boardwalk spanning the shore, more than 100,000 feet of pathway, improved and expanded dining, and a new atmosphere.