Get ready to make a splash like never before! Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today announced groundbreaking plans for its private island paradise, Great Stirrup Cay, with the unveiling of the incredible Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in Summer 2026!
This is not just any waterpark – we’re talking about a nearly six-acre aquatic wonderland featuring an astounding 19 waterslides! That’s right, 19 exhilarating slides designed to thrill every member of your family, from the most daring adventurers to the littlest cruisers.
Dive into the Details of Great Tides Waterpark:
- 19 Waterslides! Prepare for an unparalleled variety of slides. The centerpiece will be the 170-foot Tidal Tower, home to eight thrilling waterslides, including the two tallest on the island with drops and climbs that will get your adrenaline pumping. Look out for racing slides, twisting tube slides, and exciting body slides. Plus, some slides will even feature convenient conveyor belts to whisk your rafts to the top, so you can focus on the fun, not the climb!
- Industry-First Cliffside Jumps! For the ultimate thrill-seekers, Great Tides Waterpark will boast the cruise industry’s first-ever cliffside jumps, with options at 10 and 15 feet!
- Dynamic River Adventure: Get ready for a new take on the lazy river! Our nearly 800-foot dynamic river will offer an accelerated current, providing a more exhilarating ride than your typical lazy river. It even includes an illuminated grotto tunnel with a dreamlike bioluminescent scene!
- Tidepool Town for the Little Ones: A sprawling 9,000-square-foot kids’ splash zone will be a water wonderland for the younger set, complete with an oversized 40-foot tipping bucket, eight mini slides, and interactive water features galore.
- The Grotto Bar: Tucked away under the family slide in Cliffside Cove, this hidden cave bar offers a shaded retreat and prime views of all the action.
- Jet Karts Track: For those seeking even more speed on the water, a new mini aquatic racecourse with jet karts combines elements of go-karting and jet skiing for a unique shore excursion.
Beyond the Waterpark: A Transformed Great Stirrup Cay
The Great Tides Waterpark is just one part of a comprehensive transformation of Great Stirrup Cay, designed to elevate your private island experience to new heights. While the waterpark opens in Summer 2026, some exciting enhancements will begin to debut even sooner, later this year!
Look forward to:
- Great Life Lagoon: An expansive 1.4-acre heated pool area with private ocean and pool view cabanas, complimentary loungers, and two swim-up bars – the vibrant Reef Bar with a DJ, and the Waves Bar with a beach-style entrance leading to a kids’ splash area.
- Splash Harbor: A complimentary 3,400-square-foot splash pad, steps away from the new heated pool, with interactive water fountains and a shaded bar and lounge for parents.
- Horizon Park: A new recreational area featuring lawn games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini golf course, and more.
- Hammock Bay: Over 50 hammocks for ultimate relaxation, complete with its own dedicated bar.
- Vibe Shore Club: An adults-only oasis (additional fee) offering a private bar, hanging daybeds, and premium loungers.
- New Pier and Island-Wide Tram Service: Making your arrival and island exploration easier and more convenient than ever before.
Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to delivering unparalleled vacation experiences, and this monumental investment in Great Stirrup Cay reaffirms that promise. Get ready to “Escape to The Great Life” and create unforgettable memories on your next NCL cruise!
Stay tuned for more updates, and start dreaming of your next perfect island getaway with Norwegian Cruise Line!