Historic Arrival: The First Ship Docks at Great Stirrup Cay, Ushering in a New Era
On December 28, 2025, the Norwegian Getaway became the first ship to dock at the newly completed multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas. Previously, Great Stirrup Cay had only operated as a tender port, requiring passengers to be ferried between the ship and shore. The new pier facilitates direct access for cruise guests, enhancing the overall experience and reliability of port calls.
This inaugural docking marked a significant milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line, which celebrated the event in its Freestyle Daily Newsletter, noting the historical context and inviting passengers to share in this moment. The Norwegian Gem was also present at the port but remained anchored offshore, continuing its usual tender operations. The new pier can accommodate two large ships simultaneously, indicating a gradual scaling up in operations.
Plans for the pier were initially announced in April 2024, with construction starting in January 2025 and aimed for completion by the end of 2025. This development is expected to streamline the embarkation process, particularly important considering that some of the larger ships in the fleet can carry approximately 4,000 passengers.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s investment in Great Stirrup Cay totals around $150 million, which has led to additional enhancements including a tram service, a family-friendly splash pad, and a heated pool named the Great Life Lagoon, featuring various amenities such as swim-up bars and lounging areas. One of the more exciting forthcoming attractions is the Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in summer 2026, boasting numerous slides and water-based activities designed for families.
The introduction of the pier is anticipated to reduce the likelihood of cancellations due to adverse weather conditions, which has been a concern with tendering services in rough seas. By providing a solid docking point, NCL aims to bolster its offerings at this exclusive Caribbean destination and enhance the enjoyment of guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay.
For more updates on Norwegian Cruise Line and its private destination, visit these links:
- Great Stirrup Cay – A Full Overview of NCL’s Private Island
- Construction Begins for Two-Ship Pier at Great Stirrup Cay
- NCL’s Heated Pool Announcement
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Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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