Norwegian Cruise Line presents the first images of the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark on its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, ahead of its 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, Great Tides Waterpark guests can navigate the industry’s first immersive tunnel in The Wandering River; plunge down The Great Slide, the Caribbean’s only four-person slide; and enjoy new dining options that further enhance the island’s offerings. Guest favorites include Splash Cay, the family-friendly splash zone; Tidal Tower, featuring Breakwater Blasters, the Caribbean’s first dual “Master Blaster” slides that propel floats uphill and through steep drops and twists with high-pressure water jets; and Cliffside Cove, home to the industry’s first and the Caribbean’s tallest cliff jumps.
The carefully selected new features offer travelers the flexibility to plan their perfect day on Great Stirrup Cay without compromise, ensuring every guest has their ideal experience. Complementing these improvements, the island's new two-berth pier is now officially operational, allowing for quick and easy disembarkation so guests can make the most of their time enjoying all of the island's world-class facilities.
Beyond the adventure of opening the Caribbean's most exciting new destination this season, Great Tides Waterpark will feature a diverse culinary offering inspired by the island, ranging from barbecue star dishes to seafood and refreshing sweets.
Low Tide Smoke will serve slow-smoked barbecue dishes with bold flavors and comforting classics, such as St. Louis BBQ pork ribs, BBQ pork nachos, chicken wings, and crispy Buffalo cauliflower for those seeking an alternative. Catch of the Cay will offer premium cold-water seafood, with sweet, tender, and fresh dishes from the sea, such as crispy shrimp rolls, golden-fried shrimp baskets, and chilled seafood rolls, all accompanied by seasoned waffle fries.
For those with a sweet tooth, Tidal Treats will be serving artisanal desserts perfect for a warm-weather island day, such as the Strawberry Red Velvet Sundae and the Ultimate Chocolate Brownie Sundae, both served in a bubble waffle bowl. Visitors can also enjoy the original tropical fish-shaped waffle cone, filled with vanilla soft serve ice cream, colorful sprinkles, and a selection of mix-and-match flavors, from tropical orange to chocolate, caramel, bubblegum, and more. Free buffet options will also be 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 a prime view for adventurers as they plunge into the water from heights of three to four and a half meters on the area's only cliff jumps. And thanks to the Floataway Bar, situated in the heart of The Wandering River, you don't even have to leave the water to enjoy a cocktail. Best of all, drinks are included at Great Stirrup Cay with NCL's popular Free at Sea™ .
“With the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark just one month away, we are thrilled to offer guests a first look at what will become one of the most dynamic resort experiences in the Caribbean, only available when traveling with us,” said Marc Kazlauskas, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “From adrenaline-pumping rides and family-friendly activities to unique dining options and tranquil relaxation areas, Great Tides Waterpark will reflect the innovative design, scale, and adventure that await those who visit the island. Along with the enhancements we are making throughout Great Stirrup Cay, we continue to expand the options for our guests to enjoy their day in paradise without compromise. This magnificent island offers something for everyone, whether they are looking for thrills, moments of relaxation, or a combination of both.”
Designed to redefine the land-based experience and ensure enjoyment for everyone, Great Stirrup Cay also offers upscale options throughout the island and within the water park itself, ideal for family or group trips. Guests can book private cabanas for up to six people inside Great Tides Waterpark (with park access included) or opt for exclusive adults-only spaces with an all-day pass to the island's new Vibe Shore Club, complete with premium sun loungers and a private bar. The island also offers private poolside and beachfront cabanas. For an even more exclusive getaway, NCL's Silver Cove oceanfront retreat offers premium 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 wishing to be part of the official inauguration celebration on September 4, 2026, can book the Norwegian Luna's seven-day Caribbean cruise departing August 29, 2026, and purchase Great Tides Waterpark day passes for an unforgettable experience. Additional itineraries are available year-round beginning September 4, 2026, that include stops at Great Stirrup Cay. Great Tides Waterpark day passes are now on sale for cruises that include 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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