Nineteen waterslides, the tallest cliff jumps ever featured in a cruise waterpark, a lazy river with an immersive tunnel experience, exclusive relaxation areas and an impressive range of dining options. The first images of Great Tides Waterpark leave little doubt about Norwegian Cruise Line‘s ambitions for Great Stirrup Cay. When the new attraction officially opens on September 4, 2026, it will add far more than another waterpark to the Bahamian private island—it will elevate the destination into one of the Caribbean’s most complete private island experiences.
Private islands have become an increasingly important part of the cruise industry’s strategy. Once little more than idyllic beach stops, they are now destinations designed to help sell an itinerary in their own right. Cruise lines continue to invest heavily in signature attractions, premium facilities and modern infrastructure to ensure that a day ashore is every bit as memorable as the experience on board. Great Stirrup Cay is no exception. With the addition of Great Tides Waterpark, Norwegian Cruise Line is introducing its most ambitious island development to date.
Six hectares of aquatic adventure
Covering almost six hectares (nearly 15 acres), Great Tides Waterpark is the largest waterpark ever built by Norwegian Cruise Line. The new attraction features 19 waterslides alongside several rides and experiences that the cruise line describes as firsts for either the cruise industry or the Caribbean.
At the heart of the park stands Tidal Tower, home to the Breakwater Blasters. These duelling Master Blaster slides use powerful water jets to propel riders both uphill and downhill, creating a thrilling combination of unexpected twists, steep drops and high-speed turns.
Another major highlight is The Great Slide, the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide, allowing families and groups of friends to race down together. Thrill seekers can also head to Cliffside Cove, where cliff jumps ranging from 10 to 15 feet (approximately three to 4.5 metres) make their debut. According to Norwegian Cruise Line, these are not only the first cliff jumps ever introduced at a cruise waterpark but also the tallest in the Caribbean.
Relaxation has its place too
Not every guest is looking for an adrenaline rush. That’s why the traditional lazy river has been completely reimagined. The Wandering River winds through the park before taking guests through an immersive tunnel experience—the first of its kind in the cruise industry—transforming a leisurely float into an attraction in its own right.
Families will naturally gravitate towards Splash Cay, an expansive splash zone where younger guests can enjoy interactive water features, fountains and slides. It perfectly reflects the philosophy behind Great Tides Waterpark: creating a destination where multiple generations can spend an entire day together, with something to suit every age group.
From barbecue favourites to fresh seafood
The island’s culinary offering has also received a significant upgrade. Low Tide Smoke serves slow-smoked barbecue classics, including St. Louis-style pork riblets, pulled pork nachos, chicken wings and crispy buffalo cauliflower for vegetarian guests.
Seafood lovers can head to Catch of the Cay, where the menu features seafood rolls, crispy shrimp rolls and golden fried shrimp baskets served with seasoned waffle fries. Guests with a sweet tooth will find handcrafted sundaes, decadent brownies and colourful bubble waffles at Tidal Treats. The eye-catching tropical fish-shaped waffle cones topped with soft serve and colourful toppings are also expected to become one of the island’s most Instagram-worthy treats.
Several new bars have also been added throughout the waterpark. Floataway Bar sits in the heart of The Wandering River, allowing guests to order drinks without leaving the water, while Grotto Bar, located beneath The Great Slide, offers front-row views of visitors taking the plunge from Cliffside Cove. Complimentary buffet dining remains available throughout the park, while beverages are included for guests sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line’s popular Free at Sea beverage package.
More than just a waterpark
Great Tides Waterpark is only one part of the extensive transformation taking place on Great Stirrup Cay. The recently opened two-berth pier now allows cruise ships to dock directly at the island, eliminating the need for tender operations and giving guests more time to enjoy everything the destination has to offer.
Norwegian Cruise Line is also expanding its premium experiences. Guests can reserve private cabanas within the waterpark for up to six people, with waterpark admission included. Adults looking for a quieter atmosphere can relax at the new Vibe Shore Club, featuring premium loungers and a private bar. Meanwhile, Silver Cove continues to offer an elevated retreat with its private beach, oceanfront villas, infinity pool, dedicated restaurant and luxury spa facilities.
According to Norwegian Cruise Line President Marc Kazlauskas, Great Tides Waterpark is designed to become one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic cruise destinations. He believes the combination of high-thrill attractions, family-friendly experiences, upgraded dining venues and peaceful relaxation areas reflects the company’s vision of offering guests even more ways to enjoy “the perfect day in paradise.” The goal, he says, is to ensure that families, thrill seekers and travellers looking simply to unwind will all find experiences tailored to their expectations.
Great Tides Waterpark will officially open on September 4, 2026, during Norwegian Luna‘s Caribbean voyage. From that date onwards, the attraction will become a permanent feature for guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay throughout the year.
Admission to Great Tides Waterpark is not included in the cruise fare. Guests visiting Great Stirrup Cay can purchase optional day passes, with prices currently starting at US$99.99 per person. Private cabanas are also available for those seeking a more exclusive island experience. Pricing may vary depending on the sailing and availability.
Pictures: Norwegian Cruise Line
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