Norwegian Cruise Line has officially opened the first phase of Great Stirrup Cay enhancements at its private island destination in the Bahamas.
Newly released photos show a sprawling new pool complex, upgraded guest amenities, and a newly completed pier designed to improve access to the popular island for visiting ships.
At the heart of the renovation is Great Life Lagoon, a 1.4-acre heated pool area that anchors the island’s refreshed layout. The expansive pool features a beach-style entrance, a family-friendly splash zone with interactive water features, two swim-up bars, and newly added private cabanas positioned around the pool’s perimeter.
“With the fun versatility of Great Life Lagoon and family-friendly spaces like Splash Harbor, we’ve created an island where everyone can unwind, play, and make lasting memories,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
“These enhancements make it even easier for guests to trade winter weather for the warm tropics and enjoy an ‘Escape to the Great Life.’”
In addition to the main pool, families traveling with children will find Splash Harbor, a complimentary splash pad located just steps from the lagoon.
Adults seeking a more exclusive experience can purchase all-day passes to the new Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only beachfront retreat featuring private cabanas and a dedicated bar.
Other improvements include a redesigned Welcome Center and a new tram system intended to make navigating the island easier and more efficient, particularly on high-capacity port days.
“This transformation is all about offering premium experiences and unparalleled guest service, while giving guests the freedom and flexibility to enjoy their vacation their way,” Sommer added.
Norwegian Cruise Line also confirmed that the island’s evolution will continue into 2026 with the debut of Great Tides Waterpark.
The new waterpark will include 19 waterslides, highlighted by the Tidal Tower with eight slides, a nearly 800-foot dynamic river, a large children’s splash zone, and Cliffside Cove, which will feature cliffside jumps and racing slides.
Select attractions will incorporate conveyor belts to transport rafts, reducing physical strain for guests.
The expanded Great Stirrup Cay is expected to welcome more than one million visitors in 2026, as 17 Norwegian Cruise Line ships offer Caribbean, Bahamas, and weekend itineraries that include the private island.
Visits to the island will include the cruise line’s newest vessels, such as Norwegian Aqua and the upcoming Norwegian Luna, further reinforcing the island’s role as a cornerstone of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Caribbean strategy.
A key operational upgrade accompanying the new amenities is the opening of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian Getaway was the very first vessel in Norwegian’s fleet to dock at the brand-new pier on December 28, 2025.
The pier allows ships to dock directly at the island, reducing reliance on tender boats and providing guests with a more seamless arrival and departure experience. This is especially important as Norwegian Cruise Line increases the number of ships calling on the island.
With direct pier access now in place and additional attractions on the horizon, Great Stirrup Cay is being positioned as a year-round destination capable of handling higher guest volumes while offering a broader range of resort-style experiences.
Not all changes at Great Stirrup Cay are being well received
While Norwegian Cruise Line’s investment in new infrastructure and guest amenities at Great Stirrup Cay has been largely welcomed, one recent policy change has drawn criticism from some loyal passengers: the cruise line’s drink packages are no longer valid on the private island.
Historically, many guests viewed the ability to use onboard beverage packages ashore as a key perk of visiting a private destination. However, starting in March 2026, guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay must purchase beverages individually while on the island, even if they have already paid for a drink package onboard.
The change was met with widespread frustration among frequent cruisers, some of whom argue that the policy undermines the convenience typically associated with a private island experience.
Norwegian Cruise Line has not framed the decision as part of the island’s physical redevelopment. However, the timing coincides with expanded amenities such as swim-up bars and premium adults-only venues.
This has led some passengers to question whether the move is designed to drive additional onboard revenue rather than enhance guest value.
Well when I purchased my tickets for my family and I, total of 11 people. along with the drink packages and the island was included at the time. I don’t understand how you can just change that without giving a credit of some type even if it is an onboard credit.
This is a disappointment to myself and many other passengers I am sure.