Escape to The Great Life: What Awaits You at Great Stirrup Cay in Spring & Summer 2026

If you’re sailing to The Bahamas with Norwegian Cruise Line in Spring or Summer 2026, get ready — your visit to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s exclusive private island, is about to be the highlight of your vacation. With a sweeping island transformation rolling out from late 2025 through Summer 2026, guests will step into a refreshed paradise offering bigger thrills, elevated relaxation spaces, easier mobility, and brand‑new signature experiences designed for every type of traveller.

Whether you're dreaming of soft white sands, world‑class water adventures, peaceful hideaways, or family-friendly fun, Great Stirrup Cay is delivering more ways than ever to “Escape to The Great Life.”

A Smoother, More Welcoming Arrival

The first thing you’ll notice when arriving in 2026 is how effortless it is to step ashore. A new multi‑ship pier allows guests to walk directly from ship to island — eliminating the need for tender boats and making your vacation day start instantly. The pier is part of a re-imagined

Welcome Plaza, a vibrant entry point filled with photo spots, restrooms, directional signage, and easy access to the island‑wide tram system.

This upgraded infrastructure means shorter waits, smoother navigation, and more time doing exactly what you came here to do: relax, explore, and play.

The Great Life Lagoon: A Stunning 1.4‑Acre Heated Pool Oasis

At the heart of Great Stirrup Cay’s enhancements is the spectacular Great Life Lagoon, a 1.4‑acre heated pool area that’s larger than two Olympic‑sized pools combined. It’s designed for both relaxation seekers and families looking for a resort-style day.
Here you’ll find:

• A beach‑style zero‑entry area perfect for little ones
• Two swim‑up bars serving refreshing cocktails and kid‑friendly beverages
• Spacious lounge areas with plenty of complimentary seating
• Private cabanas overlooking the pool and ocean (available for purchase)

It’s the ideal place to spend the day — whether you’re floating lazily with a drink in hand or watching the kids splash and play nearby.
 

Splash Harbor: Complimentary Fun for Kids

Just steps from Great Life Lagoon is Splash Harbor, a lively complimentary splash zone designed for younger guests. Kids can enjoy water features, fountains, and aquatic play areas while parents relax close by with shaded seating and easy access to refreshments.

This thoughtful addition ensures families with small children have the perfect place to cool down, laugh, and make some sun‑soaked memories together.

Coming Summer 2026: The All‑New Great Tides Waterpark

Get ready for the island’s most anticipated debut — the massive Great Tides Waterpark, opening Summer 2026. This nearly six‑acre waterpark is set to redefine the private‑island experience with a mix of adrenaline‑pumping attractions and all‑ages aquatic fun.

Here’s what awaits:

• 19 incredible waterslides, from thrilling drop slides to relaxing tube rides
• The Caribbean’s only family raft slide
• A nearly 800‑foot dynamic river, faster and more immersive than a traditional lazy river
• A 9,000‑sq‑ft kids splash zone with tipping buckets, slides & fountains
• The cruise industry’s first cliffside jumps (10 & 15 ft)
• A brand‑new jet kart aquatic racecourse, combining elements of go‑karts and jet skis

Whether you're a thrill‑seeker or prefer gentler aquatic adventures, Great Tides Waterpark will deliver an unforgettable island experience.

Vibe Shore Club: The Adults‑Only Escape

For guests craving serenity and a premium beach day, the newly expanded Vibe Shore Club is your retreat. Accessible via day‑pass, this adults‑only enclave features:

• Private cabanas
• A dedicated bar
• Elevated loungers and plush daybeds
• A serene beachfront perfect for relaxation

It’s the ideal space to unwind while enjoying ocean breezes and a more exclusive vibe (no pun intended).

Silver Cove: Luxury at Your Fingertips

Already one of the island’s most desirable areas, Silver Cove continues to shine with private villas, an infinity pool, an upscale restaurant, and a secluded lagoon. Starting in 2026, guests can enjoy day passes without booking a villa — a new option that opens the door to premium amenities for more travellers.

Adventure Beyond the Water

Great Stirrup Cay isn’t just about pools and coastline. Guests can also enjoy:

• Horizon Park, featuring lawn games, pickleball courts & mini golf
• Snorkeling excursions in vibrant marine environments
• The island’s signature zipline adventure soaring over turquoise waters

And of course, the island’s picturesque beaches remain the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and simply soaking in the Caribbean beauty.

Enhanced Dining & Island Convenience

Across the island, guests will find:

• Complimentary dining venues
• Six bars, including new swim‑up options at Great Life Lagoon
• Easy tram access with multiple stops every few minutes

Beginning March 1, 2026, note that standard onboard beverage packages will not apply ashore — though complimentary beverages like water, iced tea, and juices remain available. A new island‑specific beverage package will launch January 2026.

Your Perfect Spring & Summer 2026 Getaway Begins Here

With thrilling additions, serene hideaways, and effortless mobility from the moment you arrive, Great Stirrup Cay is ready to offer its most exciting season ever in Spring and Summer 2026. Families, couples, adventure lovers, and relaxation seekers alike will discover more ways than ever to enjoy “The Great Life” — and create memories that will last well beyond vacation.