More about Great Stirrup Cay
Why go to Great Stirrup Cay?
Norwegian's privately owned Bahamian island features an underwater snorkel garden, massive zipline, taco bar and upscale villas
Having to share the island with thousands; no dedicated kids play areas
Its white-sand beaches and turquoise sea are heaven for a day of R&R in the sun
Good to Know?
There are plans to install lockers on the island, but for the moment it's best to leave valuables on the ship. A medical center is centrally located, not far from the buffet.
To avoid nasty cuts and scrapes underfoot, it's worth packing some water shoes in your luggage. Great Stirrup Cay is famed for its coral and while it's pretty to look at, if you go swimming or snorkeling, it's dangerous to stand on.
Your room key is needed to buy drinks and shore excursions during your stay on the island. However, the local straw market is cash only. If you'd like to shop, make sure to bring small denominations of Bahamian or U.S. dollars. Credit cards won't be accepted on the island and there are no ATMs.
What Sets It Apart?
With the addition of swanky Silver Cove and a lack of dedicated kids areas, Great Stirrup Cay is decidedly more teen- and adult-focused than private islands from other cruise lines. (It presents quite a contrast to the towering brightly colored water slides visible at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay next door.) The overwater swings found throughout the island are clearly intended for playful adults taking selfies than frolicking children -- and bars are plentiful.
Amenities?
Beach loungers are available to all, but if you want shade, you can rent an umbrella or clam shell.
Snorkel gear, foam floats and stand-up paddle-boards are available to rent at the Rental Center, close to the tender piers. Towels are not available on the island; you must bring them from the ship.
Terrain is largely sandy, but a concrete boardwalk runs across most of the island. No shuttles are available unless you need have booked a villa at Silver Cove or a spa treatment at the Mandara Spa.
There is no kids club area or babysitting on Great Stirrup Cay, but children will enjoy playing on the beach, making use of water toys and racing down the zipline. There are kid-friendly activities and shore excursions, but no water slides, kid pools or playgrounds.
At this time, passengers cannot get married on Great Stirrup Cay.
Wi-Fi is not available on Great Stirrup Cay.
Passengers with mobility issues can be met at the tender dock with a beach wheelchair by request.
