How to Plan a Great Day at Great Stirrup Cay

When you're ready to shake things up, we have plenty of options. Whether you're looking for a little adventure, a little relaxation, or a little something for the whole family, your great day at Great Stirrup Cay is just getting started.

Great Stirrup Cay is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. There are plenty of ways to explore the island, from speeding over the water on a jet ski to gliding across it by kayak. Here are our top three shore excursion options at Great Stirrup Cay for adventure-lovers:

• Island Zipline Adventure: Take your vacation to new heights as you zip around Great Stirrup Cay at speeds topping 50 miles per hour.
• Wave Runner Tour: Book a 45-minute solo wave runner tour through the Berry Islands to explore Cistern Cay, Slaughter Harbor, and the Lighthouse.
• Stand-Up Paddle Board Rental: Prefer to paddle at your own pace? Rent a stand-up board at Bertram's Cove for a fun-filled afternoon.

Grab a book to read while you sway in a hammock on the beach or sip a cool drink at one of our swim-up bars for some pure relaxation. Here are our top three shore excursion options at Great Stirrup Cay to help you unwind:

• Premier Cabana All-Day Rental: Grab a cabana for up to eight guests with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and complimentary water.
• Clam Shell Rental: Don't need a full cabana? Reserve a clam shell with two beach loungers to enjoy a little shade and privacy.
• Vibe Shore Club Day Pass: Leaving the kids at home? Make the most of your adults-only vacay at Vibe Shore Club, complete with plush daybeds, premium cocktails, and private dining options.

Dive into fun with the whole family at the new Splash Harbor. With a massive 3,400-square-foot splash pad, water toys, and shaded seating, it's the perfect place for kids to cool off and play. When you're ready to explore more of the island, our top three shore excursion options at Great Stirrup Cay for families are:

• Stingray City and Swimming Pigs on Treasure Island: For an adventure you won't forget, take the kids to wade in the water around Treasure Island, where you'll find gentle stingrays and get to snap photos with the swimming pigs.
• WaveRunner Tour for Two: Bring the little ones along as you cruise through the Berry Islands on this 45-minute guided waverunner adventure. 
• Kayak Tour: Take your time exploring the brilliant turquoise waters around Great Stirrup Cay on this guided kayak tour.

When it's time to break for lunch, refuel with Great Stirrup Cay's complimentary options. Jumbey Beach Grill is the island's main buffet, serving up mouthwatering BBQ favorites like ribs, chicken, and burgers. Want to customize your meal? Build your own lunch at Abaco Taco.

For something a little bit off the beaten path, look for the Tropic Like It's Hot food truck to indulge in some fresh ceviche or pulled pork. Or keep things simple by grabbing a quick bite at the hot dog cart so you don't miss a beat.

After lunch, explore what's new on the island. Our tram system makes it easier than ever to get around. Whether you're ready to slow things down or fit in one last adventure, the island has the perfect experience in store.

Slow down and savor the afternoon. Stroll along miles of white-sand shoreline or dive into the new Great Life Lagoon. With a heated pool the size of a cruise ship and two swim-up bars, we promise you won't ever want to leave this dream retreat. Let the kids play safely at the nearby splash pad while you unwind in a plush lounger or cabana.

If the afternoon calls for one last adventure, you're in luck. There's still time to make a splash at Great Stirrup Cay. Take a kayak or a paddleboard for one final spin. Or end your day with something truly unique. Grab a snorkel and discover the underwater sculpture garden that's teeming with marine life.

If the afternoon calls for one last adventure, you're in luck. There's still time to make a splash at Great Stirrup Cay. Take a kayak or a paddleboard for one final spin. Or end your day with something truly unique. Grab a snorkel and discover the underwater sculpture garden that's teeming with marine life.

Planning an incredible day at Great Stirrup Cay right now is already a breeze, but it's only getting better. Norwegian's ongoing investments in the private island mean you have even more experiences to look forward to in the future. Whether you're already dreaming about coming back (or planning ahead), here's what you can expect when you Escape to the Great Life.

Soon, our new pier will transform the way you arrive at Great Stirrup Cay. Say goodbye to tendering. Simply walk straight from the ship to the shore. The pier will also accommodate two ships at once to keep things moving. And once you're on land, a convenient tram will pick you up so you can explore every inch of the island with ease. Save time and do more of what you love when you visit the new Great Stirrup Cay.

Coming in summer 2026, the Great Tides Waterpark will add a whole new wave of excitement to Great Stirrup Cay. With 11 water slides and a meandering river ride, you'll find thrilling and relaxing attractions to suit every mood.

Younger children will love splashing around in the vibrant play zone, while older kids (and kids-at-heart) can take on the daring cliff-jumping platforms at Cliffside Cove. Whether you're sipping cocktails at the glowing grotto bar or racing down the sea-inspired slides at Tidal Tower, Great Tides Waterpark offers a whole new way to play.

Before we wrap things up, let's run through a few Great Stirrup Cay dos and don'ts to make sure your vacation is picture-perfect. 

• Do book excursions early. Secure your spot on the most popular adventures so you don't miss out.
• Do arrive early via tender. Beating the crowds means you'll have more time on the island and get the first pick of prime beach spots.
• Do reserve cabanas ahead of time. The Great Stirrup Cay cabanas fill up fast. Book yours in advance to make sure you have a private retreat from the heat.
• Do bring water shoes. They'll keep your feet comfortable in rocky areas like the underwater sculpture garden, so you can explore freely.
• Don't skip the Free at Sea beverage package. Unlimited open bar. Need we say more? Our Free at Sea beverage package works on your ship and all around the island, so treat yourself.
• Don't forget sunscreen. The Bahamian sun is strong, so slather on the sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Don't forget your cruise card. You'll need it to get around the island, make purchases, and return to the ship.
• Don't wait too long to leave the island. Give yourself a buffer so you can avoid long lines and make it back to the ship stress-free.

Your private island escape awaits, and it's only getting better. Sail to the Bahamas on our newest ships, Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Aqua, and Norwegian Prima, to travel in luxury. View our upcoming itineraries as we continue to expand Great Stirrup Cay. 

Most food, beach access, and basic amenities are included with your NCL cruise.

No, while booking early ensures availability for popular activities like cabanas and snorkeling, some excursions and rentals can be purchased on the ship or on Great Stirrup Cay.

Yes, the island offers activities for all ages, from calm beaches to adventure excursions.

Yes, Free at Sea is accepted at the bars on Great Stirrup Cay.

Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels (use ship-provided), and any excursion essentials.