One cruise line is investing in making its private island even better.
Norwegian Cruise Line broke ground on its $150 million project at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Currently, guests have to tender ashore. However, the new development includes the construction of a pier that will allow two ships to dock.
Royal Caribbean headed a similar project in 2019, and it seems Norwegian wants a slice of Royal's massive success with Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The $250 million transformation of CocoCay included a brand-new pier, waterpark, pool, upscale beach club with overwater cabanas, and more. The project was worth the investment, as CocoCay has won the Best Cruise Line Private Island award for four years in a row.
Following in Royal Caribbean's footsteps, Carnival has also begun making strides in its private island experience, starting with Celebration Key. Additionally, they're upgrading Half Moon Cay and its private port in Honduras to make them more appealing.
Now, Norwegian is stepping up its game to stay competitive. In addition to the pier, Norwegian is building a large heated pool with a swim-up bar and poolside cabanas, splash pad, adults-only area, and tram service.
“These newly announced enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay will further improve the guest experience on the island, which is already one of our top-rated destinations worldwide,” said Harry Sommer, President and C.E.O. of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
"Along with the completion of a new multi-ship pier later this year, we’re improving both access and amenities on the island. As we anticipate annual guest visits to exceed one million by 2026, we are actively evaluating additional investments in the island to support that growth and expand the amenities our guests can enjoy."
“Great Stirrup Cay has long been a guest favorite,” added David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “These new additions will take the private island experience to the next level by offering our guests even MORE and the continued freedom and flexibility to design their best vacation."
Read more: How to visit Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay for zero dollars
No more tendering
Tendering, whether in the Bahamas, Europe, or Alaska, is annoying. However, the addition of Great Stirrup Cay's pier will make getting ashore easier than ever.
The pier was announced in 2024, along with a new ship order for massive vessels measuring around 200,000 gross tons. They will be NCL's largest ships to date, surpassing Norwegian Encore.
The four ships are scheduled to enter service between 2030 and 2036. Few details about the brand-new ship class have been revealed, but Norwegian claims they'll be the most efficient and innovative vessels within the fleet.
Because of their size, tendering to Great Stirrup Cay would be difficult, making the new pier not just a luxury, but a necessity. Once finished, the pier can accommodate two ships.
Construction began in mid-January and is expected to be completed in 2025, though a formal date hasn't been announced.
More activities
Once disembarking, there will be more ways to customize your day ashore, whether lounging in the brand-new 28,000-square-foot heated pool or heading to the exclusive adults-only area, Vibe Beach Club.
Additionally, Norwegian is adding a family-friendly splash pad and poolside cabanas. But, if you need a break from the water, you can explore Horizon Park, which will feature the latest lawn games.
The new tram service will make navigating the island easier, too. It's also a nod to NCL's commitment to accessibility, as guests of all ages and mobility levels can comfortably explore the island.
NCL is also adding a new arrivals area with an overlook bridge — perfect for capturing photos of the island's coastline 40 feet from above the ocean.
Read more: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line
How to visit Great Stirrup Cay
Did you know you can see Great Stirrup Cay from CocoCay? Though the two islands are neighbors, Great Stirrup Cay is exclusively available to passengers sailing with Norwegian.
Through April 2027, you can find itineraries to Great Stirrup Cay on the following ships:
- Norwegian Aqua
- Norwegian Bliss
- Norwegian Breakaway
- Norwegian Dawn
- Norwegian Encore
- Norwegian Epic
- Norwegian Escape
- Norwegian Gem
- Norwegian Getaway
- Norwegian Jewel
- Norwegian Joy
- Norwegian Luna
- Norwegian Pearl
- Norwegian Prima
- Norwegian Star
- Norwegian Sun
- Norwegian Viva
Read more: I’ve been on 9 Norwegian Cruise Line sailings: here are my favorite ships and itineraries
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she traveled frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas during her freshman year of high school. Having sailed on nearly 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
