NCL Opens New Water Park on Great Stirrup Cay

For your next vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), there is a new destination in the Bahamas: on the 270-acre private island Great Stirrup Cay, the new, nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark is opening its gates. As the cruise line reports in press releases, an exclusive preview for invited guests took place beforehand. The official opening for regular cruise passengers is scheduled for September 4, 2026, when Norwegian Luna visits the private island.

Slides and Cliff Jumps in the New Area

According to NCL, the new water park is divided into four main areas:

• Tidal Tower: The 170-foot-tall landmark of the park features eight slides. These include the "Tropic Spiral" and the "Breakwater Blasters", which are dueling slides that use water pressure to propel rafts uphill.
• Cliffside Cove: Here, adventure seekers will find the "Cliffside Leap" cliff jumps from heights of 10 and 15 feet, the family slide "The Great Slide" for up to four people, and the "Fearless Falls" slides.
• Wandering River: An over 800-foot-long river with a tunnel and the connected "Floataway Bar".
• Splash Cay: An over 9,000-square-foot family area featuring a large water bucket holding 300 gallons, as well as eight mini-slides.

Culinary Offerings and Partner Activities

In addition to the wet attractions, there are also new dining options on-site according to the press releases. Three new food trucks offer barbecue specialties at "Low Tide Smoke", seafood at "Catch of the Cay", and ice cream at "Tidal Treats". Furthermore, beverage partners such as Aperol, Coca-Cola, Casamigos, and Hampton Water are presenting special tastings and photo opportunities at various bars and stations throughout the park.

How to Reach the Private Island

If you would like to visit the water park, you can purchase a ticket through your online account with the cruise line after booking your cruise. Great Stirrup Cay is visited year-round from various ports. According to NCL, these include seasonal departures from New York and Philadelphia, as well as from the Florida ports of Miami, Tampa, Port Canaveral, and Jacksonville.