NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has initiated a significant transformation of its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, situated in the Bahamas.
At the core of the overhaul is the Great Tides Waterpark, an expansive facility spanning nearly six acres, scheduled to open in summer 2026. The waterpark features a 170-foot Tidal Tower with eight varied waterslides, an 800-foot dynamic river with accelerated current and a bioluminescent grotto, a family slide accommodating four riders simultaneously, and cliff-jumping platforms at 10 and 15 feet—claiming the first such installations in the cruise industry.
Additional island enhancements include a new multi-ship pier—ending the reliance on tender operations—a 1.4-acre heated swimming area known as the Great Life Lagoon with two swim-up bars, a dedicated family splash zone, and the adults-only Vibe Shore Club offering secluded consolation.
Complementing these are an oversized splash pad for children (Tidepool Town), recreational zones such as Horizon Park featuring lawn games and mini-golf, and Hammock Bay with dozens of hammocks for restful ocean-view retreat.
NCL has launched a multi-channel promotional campaign titled “Escape to the Great Life”, led by creative agency Super Nice, which began July 29th, 2025. It spans television, digital, out-of-home advertising (including over 250 placements), immersive activations in New York and Miami, and a sweepstakes that invites guests to win stays on the revamped island. Central to the campaign is the “Escape Hatch” motif—portals through which individuals are transported into a tropical pop-up environment, blending digital experience with physical presence.
The combined enhancements and marketing strategy represent NCL’s ambition to elevate Great Stirrup Cay’s profile in the Caribbean cruise landscape. By late 2026, NCL anticipates hosting more than one million guests at the private island, a figure expected to more than double current visitation levels.