CRUISES TO GREAT STIRRUP CAY ISLAND: Norweigan Cruise Line's Private Island

Cruising to Great Stirrup Cay, our idyllic private island paradise, is an experience reserved just for our guests. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. Peacefully glide along the coastline in a kayak, craft your own delicious taco at the new complimentary Abaco Taco, and then simply relax in your private beachfront cabana. Do it all – or nothing at all – the choice is yours.

Take Relaxation to the Next Level atSILVER COVE

Luxurious Hideaways

With the incredible expansion of Great Stirrup Cay, you will be able to take relaxing to another level. Unwind at an exclusive, private retreat at Silver Cove where your luxurious villa awaits. Each Villa offers A/C, in villa TV with complimentary on-demand movies, access to the upscale Silver Cove buffet, full private restroom, a retractable glass wall providing unobstructed views and access to the beach.

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Explore OurISLAND ACTIVITIES

• Swimming with Pigs Bahamas
• Walk along pristine white sand beaches
• Wave Runner Tour
• Parasail
• Villas at Silver Cove
• Kayak Tour
• Paddle Board
• Stringray Encounter
• Marine Life Encounter
• Enjoy a day at the beach
• Become one with the sea on our floating mats.
• Relax in a Clamshell Cabana
• Grab a cool drink in the Bacardi Bar
• Float in the water, relax on a hammock or chill out in your Cabana
• Buy some local goods at the straw market

Delightful Shore ExcursionsSWIMMING WITH PIGS IN THE BAHAMAS

The Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island

Located just a short 10-minute scenic boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay, are the Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island. This unique and popular experience is offered as a shore excursion that includes round-trip transporation to the island and interaction with these playful swimming pigs. Not to be missed!

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Family-Friendly Options MeanFUN FOR EVERYONE

Fun For the Entire Family

Great Stirrup Cay has something to offer for everyone; from shore excursions to bars and lounges that will have children and adults alike jumping for joy. The island offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, Eco-Boat tours, and even a Stingray Encounter (one of our top-rated shore excursions!) Our family beach area can also make for some unforgettable sandy adventures.

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Relax and Recharge at OurDINING VENUES & BARS

Beach Buffet

Grab a bite to eat at our newly redesigned 8,500 square-foot complimentary beach buffet.

Abaco Taco

Build your own taco in the new complimentary Abaco Taco Bar.

Jumbey Beach Grill

Grab a refreshing cold brew or cocktail and a mid-afternoon bite at Jumbey Beach Grill.

Bacardi Bar

Get a freshly muddled mojito made at the Bacardi Bar.

Bertram’s Bar

Grab a drink and meet some new friends at the lively Bertram Bar.

Patron Bar

Sip on a refreshing margarita made with Patron at the Patron Bar.

What YouNEED TO KNOW

• 
  Port Name & LocationShip will ANCHOR OFF SHORE at this port and guests will be tendered ashore.
• 
  Time ZoneEST (Eastern Standard Time)UTC/GMT -5 hours
• 
  LanguageThe local language is English.
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  Currency & ShoppingUS Dollar (USD), Your Stateroom Key CardCrafts and souvenirs.
  • 
    Best Way to Get AroundOrganized Shore Excursions for beaches, parasailing, snorkeling, kayak tour. Shuttles available.
  • 
    Famous ForLounge on the Beach, take a swim, go snorkeling, paddle a kayak, or simply just relax in a hammock on our very own private island.
  • 
    Fun Fact #1This island oasis sprawls an impressive 250-acres.
  • 
    TipGrab a bite at our new 8,500-square foot beach buffet which includes a central pizza making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads.

Ships thatSAIL TO GREAT STIRRUP CAY

• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Dawn
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Sun

Norwegian Bliss

Sail to Great Stirrup Cay on one of our newest ships. Experience the largest race track at sea, our famous Observation Lounge and fantastic dining options.

EXPLORE SHIPVIEW SAILINGS

IslandHISTORY

106 AD

The Lucayan Indians are thought to be the first settlers on Great Stirrup Cay.

1600s

With the increase of sea-faring traffic, Pirates begin to migrate to the area, looking for the trade ship to loot and pilage.

1700s

British Naval officer, Captain Bertram, for whom Bertram's Cove is named, makes his home on Great Stirrup Cay. His grave marker is located on the main beach.

1860s

Federal troops used the island to store provisions during the Civil War. The surrounding waters still contain evidence of battles.

1863s

The lighthouse on Great Stirrup Cay is built over great protest since the local economy was supported by shipwreck salvaging.

1940s

The US Air Force creates a satellite tracking station. Closed in 1991, what's left remains near the lighthouse.

1977

Belcher Oil Company sells Great Stirrup Cay to Norwegian Cruise Line (known then as Norwegian Caribbean Line) and becomes the first cruise line to offer a private island experience.

Today

We invested $25 million to preserve and enhance this 250-acre Bahamian treasure for your enjoyment.

Originally Published: https://www.ncl.com/freestyle-cruise/great-stirrup-cay