Great Stirrup Cay

What We Love.

Great Stirrup Cay is our idyllic sun-drenched private island paradise reserved just for Norwegian Cruise Line guests.

The island is yours for the day, so relax by walking along the soft white sand beaches or, if you get a little adventurous, explore the island in a kayak or a WaveRunner®.

Snorkeling in crystal-clear water beside a school of tropical fish is just one of the dozens of activities to do on the 250-acre island oasis.

Enjoy your favorite cocktail followed by a complimentary midday beachside BBQ as calm ocean breezes blowing through your hair.

Let the kids play all day on the Hippo Water Slide which, at 40-feet high and 175-feet-long, is the world's largest inflatable water slide.

ISLAND ACTIVITIES

SNORKEL ADVENTURE

FATE OF THE FANCY

WAVE RUNNER TOUR

ADVENTURE AWAITS

PARASAIL

SOAR ABOVE PARADISE

CABANAS ON THE CAY

A PRIVATE OSAIS

KAYAK TOUR

A FAMILY FAVORITE

PADDLE BOARD

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Shore Activities

ISLAND HISTORY

160 AD

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

1492

Columbus discovers "the Americas" and as a result the Spanish send ships to explore the area.

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.

1863

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.

Late 1940s

American troops set up a base of operations on the island to guard the eastern shores against the Axis during World War II.

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..

Fun for the entire family.

The ultimate family vacation just got better! Do the things you want, when you want. That's the freedom and flexibility you have on Great Stirrup Cay. Kids will find the world's largest inflatable waterslide in the shape of a hippopotamus an instant favorite. The island offers many family friendly activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, Eco-Boat tours, and even a Stingray Encounter. So it's no wonder that Norwegian Cruise Line is among the top large-ship cruise lines for families in the Travel + Leisure 2012 World's Best Awards.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FAMILY CRUISING