Location & Transportation
Great Stirrup Cay is a gem in the Bahamas and holds the distinction of being the very first private island designated for cruise passengers. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line since 1977, the island is set in calm, pristine waters with a marina that boasts approximately 12 feet of water at low tide. For most of its history, tenders shuttled guests between the moorings and the island’s main facilities, but that changed at the end of 2025.
The long-awaited multi-ship pier is now open—Norwegian Getaway became the first ship to dock at Great Stirrup Cay’s new pier on December 28, 2025. This eliminates the tendering that the island had always relied on and lets guests walk directly off the ship onto the island; all Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings ships benefit going forward, including sister brands Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises. The $150 million pier allows two large ships to dock simultaneously, so if you’re sailing here in 2026 or beyond you can look forward to much easier island access. There’s more on the way, too—the Great Life Lagoon pool area opened in mid-December 2025, the Great Tides Waterpark is marketed for Summer 2026, and a Vibe Shore Club is planned as well. Even now, you can enjoy activities like over 16 wave runners, kayak rentals, and an eco-adventure boat tour circling the island.
Sightseeing
Great Stirrup Cay offers stunning natural beauty and unique island attractions:
- Stroll along the magnificent white sand beaches and admire the majestic palms.
- Explore the new half-mile oceanside boardwalk that stretches along the shore.
- Enjoy the calm, clear waters and vibrant marine life along the coral reefs.
- Take in the island’s lush scenery at your leisure.
Tours & Excursions
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure during your day in the sun, there are plenty of activities to choose from:
- Ride one of the over 16 wave runners for an adrenaline rush.
- Rent a kayak and paddle along the calm, turquoise waters.
- Embark on an eco-adventure boat tour for a closer look at the island’s coastline.
- Try parasailing for an exhilarating view of the pristine beaches.
- Experience the new zip line, boasting 1,000 feet of thrilling descent.
- Have fun on the inflatable hippo slide—a hit with both kids and adults.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
While Great Stirrup Cay is best known for its natural beauty and fun activities, you can also pick up a few souvenirs:
- Look for local stands and the on-island gift shop where you can find unique Bahamian crafts and jewelry.
- Grab a memento of your day on this exclusive island paradise.
Dining
The dining facility on Great Stirrup Cay caters to a variety of tastes and is designed for large groups:
- Enjoy a central pizza making station where you can watch freshly made pizzas being prepared.
- Savor options from two grills and discover hot and cold food stations featuring fresh fruits, breads, and a variety of snacks.
- Two full bars, conveniently located on either side of the facility, ensure that refreshing drinks are never far away.
- Ample seating in four pavilions (each over 1800 square feet with a combined capacity of more than 500 guests) means you can enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful island views.
Culture & Local Events
Even though Great Stirrup Cay is a private island primarily designed for cruise excursions, you can still catch a taste of local Bahamian culture and hospitality:
- The island operates in sync with cruise schedules, so dining and activity options are available daily to suit your travel plans.
- In the Bahamas, cash is often handy for small vendors, though major credit cards are widely accepted. (The local currency is the Bahamian Dollar, BSD.)
- English is the local language, and you’ll find the friendly, welcoming spirit of the Bahamas all around.
- While traditional local festivals might not be held on the island itself, themed parties and events are often organized for visitors, providing a fun and festive atmosphere.
- For those curious about local holidays and business hours on the mainland, more detailed information can be found at the Bahamas holiday calendar available online here.
Safety & Awareness
- The Bahamas are known for their warm hospitality, but as with any destination, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful when participating in water sports.
- Follow all safety instructions provided by staff, especially when trying adventurous activities like zip lining, parasailing, or using watercraft.