Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially announced that the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay, its private island destination in the Bahamas, will open on September 4, 2026. The debut will coincide with Norwegian Luna’s seven-day Caribbean cruise itinerary, marking a significant expansion of the island’s attractions for cruise travelers.
Beginning ahead of the opening date, guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay on or after September 4, 2026, will be able to purchase waterpark day passes in advance, allowing them to plan their island experience before departure. Visitors will also have the option to reserve private cabanas designed for groups of up to six guests. These cabanas provide shaded relaxation areas and include admission to the waterpark.
A New Family-Friendly Attraction in the Bahamas
Spanning nearly six acres, Great Tides Waterpark has been designed to appeal to guests of all ages. At the heart of the attraction is the 170-foot Tidal Tower, which will feature a variety of water slides and thrill rides.
Among the park’s standout attractions are the Breakwater Blasters, innovative water coasters that combine downhill drops and uphill propulsion while riders travel in inflatable tubes. Additional attractions include the Whitewater Dash body slides, Rapid Mat Racers, and several enclosed tube slides that offer twists, turns, and high-speed excitement.
Attractions for Thrill Seekers and Families
The new waterpark will also introduce several unique features, including:
- Cliffside Cove, home to elevated cliff-jump experiences
- The Great Slide, a four-person body slide attraction
- Fearless Falls racing slides
- The Grotto Bar, located beneath the slide complex
- Splash Cay, a 9,000-square-foot water play area designed for younger guests
- Wandering River, an adventure-style river attraction extending more than 800 feet
These additions are expected to enhance Great Stirrup Cay’s appeal as one of the Caribbean’s leading private island destinations.
Continued Expansion of Great Stirrup Cay
The opening of Great Tides Waterpark builds upon recent developments across Great Stirrup Cay. Existing attractions include the expansive Great Life Lagoon, which features a beach-entry pool, swim-up bars, and areas designed for relaxation with ocean views.
Guests can also enjoy the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, family-friendly splash areas, and improved transportation around the island through an updated tram system.
Cruise Itineraries Featuring Great Stirrup Cay
Travelers can visit Great Stirrup Cay throughout the year aboard Norwegian Cruise Line sailings departing from several North American homeports, including New York, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Tampa, Port Canaveral, and Miami.
Passengers interested in experiencing the waterpark’s grand opening can sail aboard Norwegian Luna’s seven-day Caribbean voyage departing Miami on August 29, 2026. The itinerary includes stops in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay.
For travelers seeking shorter cruise options, Norwegian Getaway will continue offering three- and four-night Bahamas itineraries from Miami through October 2026.
Looking Ahead
The addition of Great Tides Waterpark represents Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest investment in enhancing guest experiences at its private island destination. With a mix of thrill rides, family attractions, relaxation areas, and upgraded amenities, the new waterpark is expected to become a major highlight for Caribbean cruise passengers visiting Great Stirrup Cay in the years ahead.
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