Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today revealed 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 celebration on Sept. 4, 2026.
The waterpark experience will be NCL’s biggest and boldest splash yet, sitting at nearly six acres and bringing together exhilarating thrills and family fun. Set on NCL’s expansive 270-acre private island, guests visiting Great Tides Waterpark can float through the industry’s first immersive tunnel at The Wandering River; race down The Great Slide, the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide, and enjoy new dining options that further transform the island’s offerings. Destined to be guest favorites are Splash Cay, the family-friendly splash zone; Tidal Tower, featuring the Breakwater Blasters, the industry-first dueling Master Blaster slides in the Caribbean which propel inner-tubes 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 thoughtfully curated additions provide guests the flexibility they need to plan their ideal day on Great Stirrup Cay without compromise, so everyone can have their best experience. Complementing these enhancements, the island’s brand-new two-berth pier is officially open, providing reliable and easy access to disembark ashore and maximize time enjoying all the world-class amenities.
Beyond the adventure of the Caribbean’s most exciting new destination opening this season, Great Tides Waterpark will debut a dynamic lineup of island-inspired flavors from barbecue favorites to seafood fare and refreshing sweet treats.*
Low Tide Smoke will serve slow-smoked barbecue dishes featuring bold flavors and comforting classics such as St. Louis BBQ Pork Riblets, BBQ Pork Nachos, Chicken Wings and Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower for those looking for an alternative. Catch of the Cay will offer premium cold-water seafood featuring sweet, tender and ocean-fresh fare with dishes including Crispy Shrimp Rolls, Golden Fried Shrimp Baskets and Chilled Seafood Rolls all paired with a side of seasoned waffle fries. For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, Tidal Treats will serve handcrafted desserts perfect for a warm-weather island day, including a Strawberry Red Velvet Sundae and an Ultimate Chocolate Brownie Sundae, each served in a bubble waffle bowl. Plus, guests can enjoy the whimsical Tropical Fish-Shaped Waffle Cone with vanilla soft serve, colorful sprinkles and a choice of swirl flavors from tropical orange to chocolate, caramel, bubble gum and more. Complimentary buffet style options will also be available within Great Tides Waterpark.
Guests can kick back with a drink at the Grotto Bar, located at Cliffside Cove beneath The Great Slide offering front-row views of adventurers diving 10 to 15 feet into the water from the industry’s only cliff jumps. With the Floataway Bar located in the heart of The Wandering River, guests never have to leave the water to enjoy a drink. Best of all, beverages are included on Great Stirrup Cay with NCL’s popular Free at Sea unlimited beverage package.
“With just one month until the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark, we’re excited to give guests a first look at what will become one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic destination experiences that can only be enjoyed when sailing with us,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “From adrenaline-pumping attractions and family-friendly activities to unique dining experiences and places to relax, Great Tides Waterpark will showcase the innovative design, scale and adventure that await guests visiting the island. Together with our ongoing enhancements across Great Stirrup Cay, we’re creating even more ways for guests to enjoy their day in paradise without compromise. This beautiful island offers something for kids and adults alike, whether they’re a thrill seeker, in search of relaxation, or simply want a little bit of both.”
Designed to redefine the guest experience ashore and ensure there are attractions for all to enjoy, Great Stirrup Cay also offers elevated experiences throughout the island and the waterpark perfect for multi-generational groups. Guests can reserve private cabanas for up to six people within Great Tides Waterpark, inclusive of waterpark admission, or opt for adult-only spaces with an all-day pass to the island’s new Vibe Shore Club complete with premium loungers and private bar. Private poolside and beachfront cabanas are also available on the island. For an elevated escape, NCL’s existing Silver Cove oceanfront respite offers exclusive amenities, including a private beach area, air-conditioned villas, a dedicated restaurant, a stunning infinity pool with panoramic views, and an intimate spa for relaxing treatments.
Guests eager to be part of the official grand opening celebration on Sept. 4, 2026, can book Norwegian Luna’s Aug. 29, 2026 seven-day Caribbean sailing and purchase day passes to Great Tides Waterpark for an unforgettable experience. Additional itineraries after Sept. 4, 2026 featuring calls to Great Stirrup Cay are available year-round. Day passes to Great Tides Waterpark are on sale now for voyages calling to Great Stirrup Cay beginning in September, and guests can purchase them by logging into their myNCL account after completing their cruise reservation.
For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.