Great Stirrup Cay’s Exciting Transformation: NCL Introduces Great Tides Waterpark!

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is set to transform its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, with the introduction of the Great Tides Waterpark, scheduled to open in summer 2026. This expansive 6-acre waterpark will feature 19 waterslides, an 800-foot dynamic river, a 9,000-square-foot children’s splash zone, and even cliffside jumps, setting a new standard in the cruise industry.

Central to the waterpark will be the Tidal Tower, reaching 170 feet high and offering eight thrilling slides, including drop slides, racing lanes, spirals, and tube slides, with some equipped with conveyor belts to take tubes to the top. The family slide at Cliffside Cove will accommodate up to four riders, and thrill-seekers can enjoy cliff jumps from 10 and 15 feet. For relaxation, a grotto bar hidden beneath the family slide provides a shaded spot to watch the fun.

For families, Tidepool Town will feature an oversized dumping bucket, eight mini slides, and various interactive water features. The winding dynamic river will have a faster-than-usual current and pass through a beautifully illuminated grotto tunnel, complete with a swim-up bar and pleasant cabanas along the riverbanks.

Before the waterpark’s complete debut in 2026, enhancements will begin arriving in late 2025, including the Great Life Lagoon—a heated pool area with two swim-up bars, complimentary loungers, cabanas, villas, and a family-friendly area called Splash Harbor. A new multi-ship pier is also in the works to facilitate docking and reduce the need for tender service, along with a tram system for easier island transit. Guests can enjoy recreational areas such as Horizon Park for lawn games and pickleball, Hammock Bay with over 50 hammocks beneath palm trees, and a mini aquatic racecourse featuring jet-powered karts.

This transformation is backed by a substantial investment of $150 million and is anticipated to significantly boost visitation, increasing from around 400,000 guests in 2024 to over 1 million by 2026 across 15 ships. NCL’s president, David J. Herrera, noted that these developments aim to cater to sought-after experiences, reinforcing the island’s role within the “Great Life” brand vision.

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