Whenever Norwegian cruise passengers visit Great Stirrup Cay, they can't help but notice the colorful water slides at the neighboring Perfect Day at CocoCay. Well, Norwegian has had enough and is planning on building a six-acre waterpark that will rival Thrill Waterpark, giving Royal Caribbean guests their first sense of FOMO.
The Great Tides Waterpark is scheduled to open in 2026 and will feature amenities for the whole family to enjoy, from a nearly 800-foot dynamic river to the industry's first cliffside jumps and a 9,000-square-foot splash zone for children.
The entire park is being designed to elevate Norwegian's private island experience, which has historically been low-key compared to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The 170-foot-tall Tidal Tower will be at the heart of the waterpark. Home to eight waterslides, the two tallest will let guests experience splashing drops and thrilling climbs on an inner tube.
The other six are comprised of racing mat slides, tube slides, and body slides. The best part? The convenient conveyor belts will transport the rafts to the top of the tower, so guests won't be tasked with carrying them up themselves.
If that reminds you of something, you're right. Daredevil's Peak is the tallest tower at Thrill Waterpark and has seven slides: Daredevil's Peak, Dueling Demons (2), Green Mamba, Screeching Serpent, and the Manta Raycers (2).
Additionally, the Great Tides Waterpark will have a sprawling 9,000-square-foot kids' splash zone, complete with eight mini slides, interactive water features, and an oversized ripping bucket tower.
Read more: Cruise line spends $150 million to make its private island even better
Norwegian isn’t just copying Royal Caribbean’s formula — it's building on it
Although the Tidal Tower shares similarities with Daredevil’s Peak, they're adding new amenities to its waterpark that are noticeably absent from Thrill Waterpark, including a nearly 800-foot dynamic river.
This immersive water experience will feature an accelerated current, making it faster and more exciting than the average lazy river. There will also be several entry points, including a wading pool with a nearby swim-up bar.
The swim-up bar isn't the coolest part about the river. Perhaps the most thrilling and unique feature is the illuminated grotto tunnel. The dreamlike bioluminescent scene creates the ultimate multi-sensory experience.
Cliffside Cove is another one-of-a-kind attraction at the Great Tides Waterpark. Despite the 10 and 15-foot cliff jumps, a cruise industry first, there are also rides for families, such as the Caribbean's only family slide, where four guests can simultaneously slide down.
For adults, though, the Grotto Bar can't be missed. The hidden cave bar, tucked discreetly under the family slide, is ideal for people watching with a fruity cocktail in hand.
Norwegian is transforming Great Stirrup Cay into a must-visit destination
NCL wants guests to experience “The Great Life” at Great Stirrup Cay. In addition to the brand-new water park, the island itself is getting a major overhaul.
Passengers can enjoy some of the first enhancements later this year, including the opening of the island's new heated pool, a multi-ship pier, a scenic welcome plaza, and island-wide tram service.
The Great Life Lagoon, Great Stirrup Cay's 1.4-acre pool, will have complimentary lounge chairs, two swim-up bars, and cabanas/villas available to rent. The Reef Bar will be more lively with a DJ, while the Waves Bar will have a beach-style entrance near a splash area for children.
Not only that, but Great Stirrup Cay will have a smaller water park on the island. The 3,400-square-foot Splash Harbor will feature interactive water fountains and other fun aquatic features, like slides and a bucket tower.
Horizon Park is the go-to spot for those who might want a break from water-focused days ashore. With lawn-style games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini-golf course, and more, it's where cruisers seeking a little friendly competition can play.
With over 50 hammocks, a dedicated bar, and BBQ buffet, there are spaces to relax and recharge, too.
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 over 30 cruises across different lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Margaritaville at Sea, and Princess, she loves sharing her insight and expertise on all things cruising!
