Norwegian Cruise Line unveils the first images of the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark on its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, ahead of the official grand opening on September 4, 2026.
The water park experience will be the largest and most daring ever created by NCL, spanning nearly 2.4 hectares and combining thrills with fun for the whole family. Located on NCL’s expansive 109-hectare private island, visitors to Great Tides Waterpark will be able to navigate the industry’s first immersive tunnel on The Wandering River; zoom down The Great Slide, the Caribbean’s only four-person slide; and enjoy new dining options that further enhance the island’s offerings. Among the guest favorites will be Splash Cay, the family-friendly splash zone; Tidal Tower, featuring the Breakwater Blasters—the industry’s first “Master Blaster” dual slides in the Caribbean, which propel riders uphill and through steep drops and twists using high-pressure water jets; and Cliffside Cove, home to the industry’s first cliff dives and the highest in the Caribbean.
These carefully selected new features offer travelers the flexibility they need to plan their perfect day on Great Stirrup Cay without having to compromise on anything, ensuring that every guest enjoys their ideal experience. Complementing these improvements, the island’s new two-berth pier is now officially operational, allowing for a quick and comfortable disembarkation so guests can make the most of their time enjoying all of its world-class facilities.
Beyond the excitement of the opening of the Caribbean’s most thrilling new destination this season, Great Tides Waterpark will feature a diverse selection of island-inspired cuisine, ranging from signature barbecue dishes to seafood and refreshing desserts.
Low Tide Smoke will serve slow-smoked barbecue dishes with intense flavors and comforting classics, such as St. Louis-style barbecue pork ribs, barbecue pork nachos, chicken wings, and crispy Buffalo-style cauliflower for those looking for an alternative. Catch of the Cay will offer top-quality cold-water seafood, featuring sweet, tender, and fresh-from-the-sea dishes such as crispy shrimp rolls, golden fried shrimp baskets, and cold seafood rolls, all served with seasoned waffle-cut fries.
For those with a sweet tooth, Tidal Treats will serve up artisanal desserts perfect for a warm day on the island, such as the Strawberry Red Velvet Sundae and the Ultimate Chocolate Brownie Sundae, both served in a bubble waffle bowl. In addition, visitors can enjoy the unique tropical fish-shaped waffle cone, filled with soft-serve vanilla ice cream, colorful sprinkles, and a selection of flavors to mix and match—from tropical orange to chocolate, caramel, bubblegum, and much more. There will also be complimentary buffet-style options available at Great Tides Waterpark.
Guests can relax with a drink at the Grotto Bar, located in Cliffside Cove beneath The Great Slide, which offers prime views of the most adventurous guests as they plunge into the water from heights ranging from three to four and a half meters—the only cliff jumps in the area. Plus, thanks to the Floataway Bar, located in the heart of The Wandering River, you don’t even have to get out of the water to enjoy a cocktail. Best of all, drinks are included on Great Stirrup Cay with NCL’s popular Free at Sea™ premium beverage package.
“With just one month to go before the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark, we are delighted to offer passengers a first look at what will become one of the most dynamic tourist experiences in the Caribbean—one that can only be enjoyed when traveling with us,” said Marc Kazlauskas, President of Norwegian Cruise Line.“From adrenaline-pumping attractions and activities for the whole family to unique dining experiences and spots for pure relaxation, Great Tides Waterpark will reflect the innovative design, scale, and adventure that await visitors to the island. Along with the improvements we’re making throughout Great Stirrup Cay, we continue to expand the options so our guests can enjoy their day in paradise without having to compromise on anything. This wonderful island offers something for both children and adults, whether they’re seeking thrills, moments of relaxation, or simply a combination of both.”
Designed to redefine the shore excursion experience and ensure everyone has a great time, Great Stirrup Cay also offers top-tier experiences throughout the island and at the waterpark itself, ideal for family or group trips. Visitors can book private cabanas for up to six people inside Great Tides Waterpark (with park admission included) or opt for exclusive adults-only areas with an all-day pass to the island’s new Vibe Shore Club, equipped with premium lounge chairs and a private bar. The island also features private cabanas by the pool and right on the beach. For an even more exclusive getaway, NCL’s Silver Cove oceanfront retreat offers top-tier amenities, including a private beach area, air-conditioned villas, an exclusive restaurant, a stunning infinity pool with panoramic views, and an intimate spa with treatments designed for relaxation.
Passengers who wish to take part in the official opening celebration on September 4, 2026, can book the Norwegian Luna’s seven-day Caribbean cruise, departing on August 29, 2026, and purchase day passes to the Great Tides water park to enjoy an unforgettable experience. Additional itineraries are available year-round starting September 4, 2026, that include stops at Great Stirrup Cay. One-day passes to the Great Tides water park are now on sale for cruises calling at Great Stirrup Cay starting in September, and passengers can purchase them by logging into their myNCL account after completing their cruise booking.
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