Norwegian Cruise Line has officially opened a sweeping collection of new attractions at Great Stirrup Cay, its private island destination in the Bahamas, marking one of the most significant upgrades in the island’s history.
The headline addition is Great Life Lagoon, a striking 1.4-acre pool complex that forms the centrepiece of the cruise line’s newly branded Escape to The Great Life experience. The enhancements are already welcoming guests and are designed to handle rising visitor numbers as Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its fleet and itineraries.
The 268-acre island is expected to host around one million cruise passengers during 2026, according to the cruise line.
Island Transformation And New Infrastructure
The redevelopment of Great Stirrup Cay goes well beyond the new pool area. A two-ship pier, which opened on 28th December 2025, now allows vessels to dock directly at the island, eliminating the need for tender boats. The first ship to use the new pier was Norwegian Getaway.
The pier is available not only to ships from Norwegian Cruise Line but also to vessels operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, both sister brands under Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Guests are now welcomed via a new arrival centre and can move around the island using an island-wide tram service, designed to make accessing beaches, dining areas and attractions easier, particularly during busy port days.
“Great Stirrup Cay has always been a favorite for our guests, and these new enhancements make it even easier for guests to trade the winter weather for the warm tropics and enjoy an ‘Escape to the Great Life.‘
“With the fun versatility of Great Life Lagoon, and family-friendly spots like Splash Harbor, we’ve created an island where everyone can unwind, play and make lasting memories,”
Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd
What Guests Can Expect From The New Attractions
Great Life Lagoon is larger than two Olympic-sized swimming pools placed side by side and includes two swim-up bars, extensive sun loungers and private cabanas available for an additional charge. Integrated into the lagoon area is Splash Harbor, a new water play zone designed specifically for younger guests.
Adults seeking a quieter experience can purchase a day pass to the Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only beachfront retreat for guests aged 18 and over.
The venue mirrors the popular Vibe Beach Club found onboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships and includes its own private bar and cabanas.
Further expansion is already underway. The upcoming Great Tides Waterpark, scheduled to open in summer 2026, will feature 19 waterslides, an 800-foot river attraction and a cliff-jumping experience. Its centrepiece, the Tidal Tower, will stand 170 feet tall and house multiple slide experiences, including racing and tube slides.
Ships Visiting Great Stirrup Cay In 2026
A wide range of Norwegian Cruise Line ships are scheduled to call at Great Stirrup Cay throughout 2026.
These include Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Prima sailing from Port Canaveral, Norwegian Gem from Jacksonville, Norwegian Breakaway from New York, Norwegian Getaway from PortMiami and Norwegian Viva from Galveston.
The cruise line’s newest vessel, Norwegian Luna, is due to enter service in March 2026 and will also feature visits to the island on sailings from PortMiami.
With the new pier, expanded attractions and additional infrastructure now in place, Great Stirrup Cay is set to play an increasingly central role in Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries as the company looks to enhance its private destination offering across the Caribbean.
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