wave runner tour great stirrup cay

Ultimate Guide to Great Stirrup Cay (2023)

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: March 25, 2020  - Last updated: March 20, 2023

Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, offers gorgeous white sand beaches, water sports and activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

The very first cruise line private island, Great Stirrup Cay is a 268-acre piece of paradise in the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. There are so many things to do on Great Stirrup Cay , whether you want an active day or just some relaxation! Here’s everything you need to know before your GSC visit.

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

Who owns Great Stirrup Cay?

Norwegian Cruise Line started leasing Great Stirrup Cay in 1977, to develop it into a  private island exclusively for NCL cruise ship passengers. Norwegian purchased the island outright in 1986.

You may notice some Royal Caribbean ships as you approach the island. Don’t worry, it’s not accessible to other cruise lines not owned by Norwegian! Great Stirrup Cay happens to be located adjacent to Little Stirrup Cay, home to RCC’s private island CocoCay.

Norwegian’s sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas , also offer occasional itineraries that include a day at Great Stirrup Cay.

NCL’s recent renovations

As part of their Norwegian Edge program, NCL has spent about $250 million renovating and improving Great Stirrup Cay.

In addition to upgrading and enhancing the experience at the dining venues, and improving walkways and landscaping, they’ve also added more sports and adventure activities. For the ultimate in relaxation, the new luxury Silver Cove area features villas and a private lagoon.

If it’s been a few years since you’ve visited the private island, you’ll be amazed at how much it’s changed while still retaining its charm.

Is Great Stirrup Cay a tender port?

Great Stirrup Cay doesn’t yet have a pier for ships to dock at, so your ship will anchor offshore. Smaller boats, known as “tenders”, ferry passengers to and from the island.

You’ll need to pick up a complimentary ticket with a specific time to board the tender, or you can wait until Open Tender is called. Be warned that on NCL ships, Open Tender generally doesn’t start until the afternoon. By that time, many (if not all) of the restaurants and bars on the island will be closed.

Tip: Check your Freestyle Daily the day before you arrive at Great Stirrup Cay . It will list times and the location where you can pick up tender tickets. Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise

Does anyone live on the island?

Norwegian has a small staff that stays on the island, but there are no permanent residents. All food for the day is sent over on tender boats with the ship’s kitchen staff in the morning.

The staff you’ll meet during the day on Great Stirrup Cay come over from the ship. Even the people working at the straw market don’t live here—they take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay .

Is the food free on Great Stirrup Cay?

Food is complimentary on Great Stirrup Cay! Currently, there are three dining options available to all guests on the island.

Jumbey Beach Grill is the largest dining venue, offering barbecue-style food in a buffet setting. Hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, and jerk chicken are popular, along with pizza, salads, and corn-on-the-cob.

Abaco Taco is a make-your-own taco bar with a variety of toppings available. Choose a beef, chicken, or fish soft taco, and load it up!

Tropic Like It’s Hot Food Truck ‘s small menu features sandwiches including Mahi Mahi and BBQ pulled pork, ceviche, and grilled spiced chicken breast. They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars.

Guests who book a villa or a Mandara Spa treatment on the island have access to an additional complimentary restaurant. Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale buffet with elevated choices such as grilled lobster tail and jumbo shrimp ceviche.

Are drinks free on Great Stirrup Cay?

There are very limited complimentary beverages available with meals: coffee and ice water. Drink charges on Great Stirrup Cay work much as they do on board the ship. If you have a beverage package for your cruise, it will work on the island as well.

If you’d like to buy drinks, you use your cruise card to make your purchases just as you do on the ship.

Bars on GSC that are open to all guests include the Patrón Bar , Bertram’s Bar , Bacardi Bar , and the Lighthouse Beach Bar .

In the exclusive Silver Cove area, there’s also the Silver Cove Bar and the Moët Bar . These are only accessible to Villa guests and those booking a treatment at the Mandara Spa.

What activities are offered at Great Stirrup Cay?

Cruisers visiting Great Stirrup Cay for the day have a range of activities to choose from, and the island offers something for every activity level and budget.

Enjoying the beach

Many visitors choose to just relax on the beach during their visit to the private island, and there’s plenty of beautiful sand for everyone! Beach access is free, and complimentary loungers are available. Most chairs aren’t shaded, so you might consider renting a clamshell to keep out of the sun.

Tip: If you don’t want to spring for a clamshell, get to the island as early as possible. There are limited loungers in a shady area under the trees, but they go fast!

Bertram’s Cove Beach , the main beach on the island, is the largest and closest to the tender dock. Since it’s so easily accessible, it’s always the most crowded beach as well. If you don’t mind being a little farther away from most amenities, keep walking and you’ll find Cabana Beach and then Fiesta Beach .

Although these smaller beaches are generally where cabana guests go, they’re also open to anyone. And they’re usually a lot less crowded!

Floating on the waves

If you’d prefer to relax ON the water, you can rent a floating mat for $16 a day. Pick them up at Mat and Float Rentals, across from Bertram’s Cove Beach. You can’t miss it—the mats are a seriously bright shade of yellow!

Snorkeling at the underwater sculpture garden

Snorkeling is a very popular activity for visitors to Great Stirrup Cay! The best snorkeling spots in Bertram’s Cove are easily accessible from the main beach. You can rent snorkel equipment for the day ($37/adult, $22/child) but we prefer to pack our own full-face snorkel masks.

The sculpture garden is located just in front of the large rock formations you’ll notice rising out of the water. If you’re not sure exactly where to go, just ask the staff at Susan’s Rock Snorkel Center .

Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise

Ziplining from the Flighthouse

One of the newest attractions at GSC is the ziplining course . Starting from the 110-foot (33.5 m) replica lighthouse, the new course features 2935 feet (895 m) of zipline!

You’ll be able to reach speeds of up to 30 mph (48 kph) while enjoying a birds-eye view of the island and the sparkling waters surrounding it.

Age and weight restrictions do apply, and cruisers need to wear closed-toe shoes to participate.

On Great Stirrup Cay you’ll have three options for ziplining: the Osprey Zipline, the Seahawk Zipline, or a combo package that lets you ride both.

Osprey Zipline ($79/$59 kids) Three easy flights: the first flight south is the tallest at 120 feet above the ground. On the second flight, you’ll soar 850 feet out to the next landing, then 900 feet out to return to the starting point.

Seahawk Zipline ($89/$69 kids) This zipline also offers three flights, but they’re a bit more challenging. You’ll take an elevator to the 110-foot platform to zip out 1429 feet to a landing near Silver Cove Lagoon.

You’ll return via a 105-foot V-net bridge, a 25-foot chimney climb, and two more long zipline rides.

Island Zipline Adventure ($119/$85 kids) A combination of the Osprey Zipline plus the Seahawk Zipline for a total of six zips plus a series of V-net bridges, chimney climbs, and cargo nets.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand-up paddle boarding (or SUP) is a fun way to get out on the water, and it’s a great workout, too! SUP is easy to learn, and the staff will give you pointers before sending you out to paddle around Bertram’s Cove .

Board and paddle rentals are $39 per hour, and there’s no minimum age requirement, so the whole family can join in.

Get pampered at Mandara Spa

If a soothing spa treatment is more your style, be sure to book a facial or massage at Mandara Spa in Silver Cove. Spa therapists will work their magic while you relax to the song of the ocean’s waves. Treatment rooms open to the secluded beach on the north side of the lagoon.

Guests who sign up for a spa treatment have an added perk—access to the private lagoon and Silver Cove’s restaurant and bars, normally reserved for those renting a villa.

Is there entertainment on Great Stirrup Cay?

Entertainment on the private island focuses on music and dancing, centered around the bars and the bandstand. Expect lively dancing from the ship’s entertainment staff, especially at the Bacardi Bar !

They’ll encourage guests to come up and dance with them. Even if you’re not a dancer, it’s fun to watch the high-energy staff interact with guests (who may or may not have had a couple of rum cocktails).

Live music with a Caribbean flair is played by local musicians at the bandstand directly across from the main beach at Bertram’s Cove. There’s plenty of room to dance on the sand, away from the crowds sunning on the beach.

What shore excursions can you take from Great Stirrup Cay?

Since the island is uninhabited, your only options for shore excursions are those you book through the cruise line.

Here are the Great Stirrup Cay shore excursions for 2023:

Wave Runner Tour (from $139): This 45-minute personal watercraft tour through the Berry Islands will let you see area highlights like the Lighthouse at Great Stirrup Cay, Slaughter Harbor, and the abandoned island community of Cistern Cay. The tour offers both single as well as two-person wave runners. Age and weight restrictions apply to this tour, so read carefully before booking.

Swim With the Pigs ($149/$109 kids): Yes, you can swim with pigs during your visit to Great Stirrup Cay! The pigs aren’t on GSC itself, but on nearby Treasure Island . Note that the operators of this shore excursion don’t allow guests to take their own photos (but you can purchase pictures).

Note: There are also several shore excursions from 2022 that aren’t currently offered, but may return in 2023. Prices are as of 2022, so expect about a 10-15% increase from last year’s pricing:

Kayak Tour ($59/$39 kids): Away from the crowds, you’ll join a group to paddle your two-person kayak in the waters south of Great Stirrup Cay. Tour guides provide a basic orientation on how to use your kayak.

Catamaran & Snorkel ($79/$59 kids): A double-decker, covered snorkel boat will take you to a live coral reef where you can swim with native fish and marine life. On your return, snacks and complimentary adult beverages are available.

Stingray City Bahamas ($99/$79 kids): Not to be confused with the famous Stingray City off of Grand Cayman where you can feed wild rays, this excursion takes you on a speedboat ride to Stingray City Bahamas. There, guests can interact with and feed tame stingrays in an enclosed area offshore. Snorkeling equipment is also provided.

Tip: If your Bahamas cruise also stops in Freeport, I recommend the Swim With The Pigs excursion that NCL offers there—you can take unlimited photos and video at no additional charge.

Unusual things to do on Great Stirrup Cay

If you’re looking for some out-of-the-ordinary things to do on Great Stirrup Cay , I have a couple of fun recommendations for you, especially if you enjoy history.

Walk out to the real lighthouse

You’ll no doubt see the new replica lighthouse that NCL uses for ziplining, since it’s in a very central location. But did you know there’s a real lighthouse on the island as well? This lighthouse was originally constructed in 1863 by the British Imperial Lighthouse Service.

Although the station was manned for many years, the light is currently fully-automated and solar-powered. The nearly 80-foot (24 m) lighthouse’s beam is visible for over 20 miles!

To get to the lighthouse, walk back and to the left of the tenders and look for the Lighthouse Trail. The journey is about a mile each way, and you might even spot some local wildlife, including iguanas and hummingbirds on your walk. Definitely take some closed-toe walking shoes if you want to do this short hike.

Visit the Great Stirrup Cay Cemetery

There were two early-nineteenth-century burials on the island, and you can visit the tiny cemetery with their memorials. The first burial was Captain Allan Bertram (1790-1834), the namesake of Bertram’s Cove . The British Navy captain, commander of HMS Tweed , asked to be buried here facing the beach that he loved.

In 1979, Norwegian Cruise Line installed a stone marker and plaque on the location of his grave. The tiny cemetery is located in a grassy area across from the main beach.

Also located here is the grave of Elizabeth Hixson (1813-1838), a young woman from Virginia who was traveling by sea with her husband and daughter. Elizabeth had been ill and hoped that the climate in Florida, where her brother lived, would help her condition.

She passed away during the journey, and her husband hoped to make it to Key West for burial. Winds were too calm, so they were forced to stop at the nearest island, Great Stirrup Cay. She was buried next to Captain Bertram.

Are there cabana rentals at Great Stirrup Cay?

You can rent an open-air cabana on the island, starting at $449 for a Classic Cabana that will accommodate six people. Or upgrade to a Premier Cabana with room for eight guests.

You can add up to two extra guests to either size cabana, with a $35 charge per person.

All cabanas feature a sofa and several chairs, and a small patio. The front of each structure is open to the outside, but you can draw the curtains for privacy.

Both cabana styles offer complimentary bottled water as well as up to four free-floating mats. Each group of cabanas is located close to small beaches that are often far less crowded than the main beach. Classic Cabanas are near Fiesta Beach , and Premier Cabanas are located close to Cabana Beach .

What perks are there if you rent a villa in Silver Cove?

If you’re looking for even more luxury, Great Stirrup Cay’s exclusive new Silver Cove area offers private villas for the day.

Silver Cove villa options include:

• Silver Cove Beach Villa: $649 (six guests)
• Ocean Villa $649 (six guests)
• Silver Cove 1-Bedroom Villa $799 (ten guests)
• SIlver Cove 2-Bedroom Villa $949 (16 guests)

Just like the cabanas on the island, NCL allows two extra guests over the stated capacity, with an upcharge of $35 per person for the smaller villas, and $49 per person for the one- and two-bedroom villas.

With any villa rental, you’ll also have access to the exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar , the Moët Bar , as well as the private beach at Silver Cove Lagoon (with its new overwater swings).

Each fully-furnished villa features air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a patio. Villa guests can also enjoy complimentary fresh fruit, chilled water, and a menu of on-demand movies. Room service is included if you’d prefer to dine in the villa. Villa guests also have access to complimentary floats and beach umbrellas.

Tip: If you’re thinking of visiting the Moët Bar in Silver Cove, consider upgrading your beverage package to the Premium Plus Beverage Package . Drinks at this bar start at $25, so none are covered by the Premium Beverage Package.

Are lockers available on Great Stirrup Cay?

There aren’t any lockers available on the island for passengers to secure their valuables. I recommend taking an inexpensive waterproof pouch that you can hang around your neck. You’ll be able to fit a cell phone, cash, and your license inside while you enjoy the water.

Does Great Stirrup Cay have a pool?

Currently, GSC doesn’t have a swimming pool. However, part of NCL’s improvement plan for the future includes a swimming pool complex and water features including a lazy river .

Is Wi-Fi available on Great Stirrup Cay?

GSC doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, but there is a cell tower. If you have an international plan on your phone, you should be able to access cellular data. The signal usually works on board the ship when it’s anchored offshore as well.

If you have an internet package on board the ship, you won’t be able to use it on Great Stirrup Cay. Your ship’s signal doesn’t reach the island.

How do you get around on Great Stirrup Cay?

Unlike some other cruise line private islands, GSC doesn’t have a regular shuttle or tram to transport guests around. One exception is transportation to Silver Cove, since it’s a bit of a hike from where you’ll exit your tender.

If you have a shore excursion that departs from the dock on the south side of the island, shuttles will take you to and from that location.

Thankfully, most of the action on the island is centrally located by the main beach at Bertram’s Cove. Most bars and restaurants are in this area, and restrooms are just a quick walk from the beach.

What about guests with mobility challenges?

Beach wheelchairs are available on Great Stirrup Cay, free of charge. However, you can’t pre-order a wheelchair, and the staff issues them on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you or one of your cruising group is unable to walk at all, tendering to the island might not be possible. NCL, like many other cruise lines, reserves the right to deny boarding of their tenders to guests who can’t enter or exit the boat on foot.

This is entirely for the safety of guests as well as the safety of crew members who assist people entering and exiting tenders. Keep this in mind when you ask crew members if you or your group member will be allowed to tender.

On the flip side, staying on the ship during a port day at Great Stirrup Cay can be incredibly fun. You won’t have to deal with crowds, and it could be a perfect day of relaxation when the pool deck, restaurants, and bars are almost empty. This would be a great day to book a (possibly discounted) spa treatment!

Can you buy souvenirs on Great Stirrup Cay?

Souvenirs are available at the Berried Treasures Bazaar , a straw market run by local Bahamians. The colorful open-air market offers clothing and accessories, as well as a variety of local crafts.

Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t run the bazaar, you won’t be able to use your cruise card here. It’s cash-only (US or Bahamian dollars) so be sure to bring cash for the market if you think you might want to do some shopping.

What do you need to bring to Great Stirrup Cay?

Your must-haves for Great Stirrup Cay are pretty basic:

• Your cruise card
• A photo ID (needs to be a valid driver’s license if you’re doing the wave runner tour)
• A towel (you can take one from the ship)

I also recommend a few extras to make your day on the island more fun and comfortable:

• Water shoes
• Tennis shoes for visiting the lighthouse or ziplining
• A hat or visor
• A reusable water bottle
• Snorkel gear
• Cash for souvenirs at the straw market

Remember when you’re packing your beach bag to double-check that you’ve packed everything you’ll need for the day. Returning to the ship and tendering back to the island likely won’t be practical.

What’s the weather like at GSC?

The Berry Islands are warm enough for swimming year-round, making Great Stirrup Cay a wonderful place to visit any time of year.

The warmest months are July and August, where highs average 91°F (33°C). January is the coldest month, with highs of 79°F (26°C).

The rainiest time of year in the Berry Islands is June through September, with the islands seeing 4-6 inches (10-16 cm) of rain per month.

Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. Peak hurricane period in the Bahamas lasts from early August until late October.

Ships planning to visit Great Stirrup Cay often will cancel during rough sea conditions because it’s a tender port. If you have your heart set on a day on this private island, you might want to consider booking your cruise outside of this season.

What cruise ships go to Great Stirrup Cay?

Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? As of 2023, there are 14 ships featuring itineraries that include Great Stirrup Cay:

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

What’s changed about cruising to Great Stirrup Cay in the past few years?

When I first published this post about Great Stirrup Cay in 2020 (yup, I actually cruised to GSC in mid-February 2020 right before the world shut down) I planned to update the info about Great Stirrup Cay I had gathered for my readers about once a year.

Then I noticed that offerings (and prices!) were changing far more frequently. With that in mind, I’ve been updating this Ultimate Guide to Great Stirrup Cay about every six months.

But what have I noticed with my first 2023 update? Prices have skyrocketed. I’m seeing 10 to 15% jumps in pricing for shore excursions in just the past six months—and that’s after the usual annual increases.

But the biggest price hikes have been with the luxury experiences in Silver Cove. Early last year you could have enjoyed a Silver Cove Villa for less than half the price that you now see in 2023.

Most of this has to do with supply and demand. GSC Villas sell out early because people want that luxury experience—and there are lots of us with pandemic cruise credits looking for a way to redeem our missed vacations.

My thoughts? If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again.

Don’t forget to check out these resources before your Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line:

• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
• 25 Norwegian Cruise Tips You Need to Know
• Norwegian’s Free at Sea: The Ultimate Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

Have you visited Great Stirrup Cay on a Norwegian cruise? What did you think of the island? Let me know in the comments below!

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Ronald Murray

Sunday 22nd of August 2021

I love the idea of a private island. We actually just booked a cruise with NCL with a stop in GSC. We were considering getting a small cabana and splitting the cost between us and a friend who is also going. Was looking though and wondering if the studio villa would be better. What is your opinion on the cabana vs villa?

Monday 30th of August 2021

Hi Ronald, if you're on the fence about cabana vs. villa (and don't mind spending a bit more), I'd say go with the villa. It's much more private and luxurious, and you'll have the added benefit of access to the Silver Cove amenities. There are also shuttles that will take you right to Silver Cove and back. You should also get priority tendering with a villa, which is great when everyone's trying to get to the island - it can take hours to get all the passengers tendered over. Hope you have a fantastic cruise!

Thursday 21st of May 2020

I never knew cruise lines could own private islands. Great tip about not having wifi outside of international cell service. Is there a community of people who lived on the island before it was purchased? I would love to learn more about life on the island for the people employed by the cruise line. Really interesting.

Friday 22nd of May 2020

Great questions, Courtney! GSC was a pirate hideout (!) until the early 19th century. When I was researching the little cemetery, I learned that when Elizabeth's husband buried her on the island he met two men of African descent, assumed to be former slaves, living on the island. They helped him find the spot next to Captain Bertrand's grave. Later the island was a military installation, until it was claimed by the oil company that later leased the island to NCL.

I'd like to know more about life on the island for the employees who stay there, too! I think I'd volunteer for that job if I worked for the cruise line :D Next time I go I'll see if I can get the scoop.

I’ve never heard of this place before! And the free food definitely caught my attention. Looks like a wonderful place to relax

Yes, the food on Great Stirrup Cay is included with your cruise fare! Having food included is one of my favorite parts about cruising :D

Private islands are always the highlight of a cruise for me - they're just so relaxing and a reminder to take things a bit slower. (which we all need to do more! )

Pam, I completely agree. I love visiting the ports and spending long days exploring, but private islands are a nice break from the busier days. Life can be so hectic that it's important to take some time to just relax and enjoy :D

Learning that an island is owned by a Cruise line is surprising. The island looks beautiful! Hope to visit it one day

Paolo, I hope you're able to visit GSC - it's so nice to just relax there and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Thanks for stopping by!

Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

Last updated on September 18th, 2023 at 07:25 pm

Escape to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's private island paradise in the Bahamas. Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or indulge in thrilling water sports. Enjoy a beachside barbecue, sip refreshing cocktails, or take a leisurely stroll along the island's nature trails. Great Stirrup Cay offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by natural beauty and endless activities.

Good To Know

A typical day in Great Stirrup Cay averages about 80°F.  January is the coldest month with temperatures ranging from lows of 72°F to 74°F.  The hottest month, August, will average temperatures of between 82°F and 85°F.

The U.S. dollar is the accepted currency. The straw market accepts cash only. You can use your stateroom key card for drinks, shore excursions and souvenirs. Credit cards are not accepted on the island and there are no ATMs.

Wireless Internet:

There is no WiFi on Great Stirrup Cay. There is, however, a cell phone tower.

English is spoken on Great Stirrup Cay.

Where You Dock in Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

There is not a pier at this island. A tender boat will bring you from the ship to the island. The tender runs back and forth all day long and is about a 10 minute trip. If your cruise is full, there could be wait times as passengers board and disembark both ways. Plan accordingly if you have time constraints. If you have mobility concerns, you can be met with a beach wheelchair by requesting one.

Getting Around Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

It is about a 10 minute tender journey from the ship to the island. Once on shore, it is less than a 10 minute walk from the dock to the information kiosk.

There is a concrete boardwalk that runs across most of the island, and the rest of the terrain is mostly sandy. There are no rental cars, bikes, scooters, or buses on the cay.

Shopping In Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

Stirrup Cay Marketplace, a straw market, has beachwear, Bahamian crafts and souvenirs. You will find paintings, wooden carvings, woven items, sculptures and jewelry that will make great items to take home or for gifts. The market is not run by NCL, so you can’t use your cruise card here, they only accept cash.

Dining In Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

Think of the island as an extension of the ship when it comes to the food on the island, as the cost of meals is included in your cruise. Drinks can be paid for with your cruise card.

There are numerous food options in the cay, but not a whole lot of options for those who have restrictions or prefer vegetarian options. If that is you, you might want to bring food items from the ship or tender back to the ship for your meal. If you choose to book one of the Silver Cove Villas, you will have access to the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar.

Unlike other cruiseline-owned private areas which typically have a grill buffet set up in a couple of spots around the island which serve the same foods, NCL keeps in line with their free-style restaurants by offering the following food venues on the island:

Jumbey Beach Grill – Cold beer, cocktails or a delicious burger, tropical salads, fruit and corn on the cob.

Abaco Taco – Build your own taco at the complimentary taco bar using beef, pork, or shrimp and top it off with sour cream, guacamole and a variety of salsas.

Tropic Like It’s Hot -This is a food truck that offers a perfect bite before you go to the beach.  Serving ceviche, pulled pork sandwiches, fish sandwiches, spiced chicken, and rum cakes.

These drink venues are also located around the island:

Bertran’s Bar, Bacardi Bar (where you can get the perfect mojito and hear music), Patron Bar (for amazing margaritas).

Things To Do in Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas

Great Stirrup Cay is most noted for the opportunity to spend a relaxing, slow-paced day at the beach. There are plenty of beach chairs and there are protected coves for swimming and snorkeling.

Beaches In The Cay

There are three main beaches in Great Stirrup Cay. All of the beaches have white sand and access to restrooms.

Bertram’s Cove

This is the main beach and closest to where the tender drops you off. It tends to be the busiest beach and has a volleyball court. Family entertainment is organized throughout the day here. This is also the location of the underwater sculpture garden.

Cabana Beach

In the middle of the island, this is where the cabana’s that can be rented are located. It is close to the Bacardi Bar which has a DJ booth.

Fiesta Beach

The furthest public-access beach from the tender dock, it takes about seven minutes to walk to Fiesta Beach. More cabana’s and private villas are situated here. It is also close to the Tropic Like It’s Hot food truck.

Silver Cove

This small cove is reserved for passengers who have booked a villa or spa treatment. The cove is surrounded by the villas and the spa. It is also the farthest from the tender dock.

  Play In The Water

Ship’s staff organize various activities like beach volleyball and water games. If you choose to go snorkeling, the island has a rental center for the gear to do so. There is a man-made underwater sculpture garden in Bertram’s Cove off the main beach.

If you want to be on the water, not under it, you can also rent wave runners, stanup paddle boards and floating mats.

  Zip And Rope Courses And Parasailing

Great Stirrup Cay has six zip-lines and a ropes course of cargo nets, V net bridges and chimney climbs. Platforms for the zip line are 120 feet above the ground and reach a top speed of 50 mph.

  The parasailing adventure is in a parasail glider for you and a friend. You will be towed by a specially designed boat that will take you 400 feet above the water for a very exciting look at the cay.

Visit The Spa

Mandara Spa has sea views and several outdoor hot tubs. Get a relaxing massage while enjoying the open air in their treatment rooms.

Rent A Villa Or Cabana

  If you feel like splurging, Silver Cove Cabanas and Villas are an ideal way to stake out a bit of the island to yourself.

If you plan on spending the day on the island, you might want to think about renting one of the Silver Cove cabanas. The advantage of a cabana is that they are just for your use.

There are 22 cabanas on the cay, 10 large ones on Cabana Beach and 12 smaller cabanas on Fiesta Beach. The large cabanas will fit up to eight people and the smaller ones will fit up to six.

The cabanas are open-air style, with the open wall facing the beach, and windows are on the sides of the cabanas. Privacy curtains can be pulled if you prefer. The large cabana will have a sectional-style couch, a table, a mini-refrigerator and outlet for charging your electronics.

You can order food to be delivered to your cabana, but it will also be stocked with fresh fruit, chips, salsa and bottled water. The cabana will also have towels.  Each cabana has a deck and lounge or patio chairs.

Four complimentary floating mats are included, as well as a hammock and a private shower to rinse off in. There are not any private restrooms, but the public facilities are within walking distance.

If you really want to splurge, take a look at the Silver Cove two bedroom suite that can be rented for the day: Great Stirrup Cay – Two Bedroom Family Suite Villa .  There are 38 villas that range from one and two bedrooms.

Six of the one bedroom villas have a wet bar and a private master bedroom. The two bedroom suites have a dining area and a larger master bedroom with spa tub and shower.

These cabanas and villas tend to book up months in advance of a cruise visit. Online reservations can be made at Cabana and Villa reservations , and the reservation should be in just one person’s name, regardless of the number of guests in your party.

Top Excursions & Tours At Great Stirrup Cay – Bahamas

Don’t Swim With The Dolphins, Swim With The Pigs

Everyone loves dolphins, who also seem to love us. And you should swim with them whenever you can, but you won’t get many opportunities to swim with the pigs, so don’t miss out. You can sign up here: Swim With The Pigs .  You will also get to feed these sweet creatures.

Just a 10 minute boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay are the Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island. Purchase this excursion through NCL and you will be whisked to Treasure Island from the cay. You will get an introduction and safety briefing before you meet these little swimmers.

Read some more about these swimming porkers here: Swim with the Pigs On Your Bahamas Cruise to Great Stirrup Cay | NCL Travel Blog

Wave Runner Tour

  This NCL Wave Runner Tour will take you on  a 45 minute personal watercraft tour of the Berry Islands and show you the area highlights, like the Lighthouse at Great Stirrup Cay, Slaughter Harbor and the now abandoned island community of Cistern Cay.  You can have a single or double wave runner. When you book this tour, know that there are age and weight restrictions.

Catamaran & Snorkel

Take a scenic boat ride before plunging into the Bahamian waters to snorkel on this NCL Catamaran & Snorkel tour. You will see an abundance of fish and sea life before enjoying a slow cruise back to the cay. Music, light refreshments and beverages will be provided on the return trip.

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Here Are Some of The Best Things to Do on Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay is a picturesque tropical island about 140 miles from Miami. Because it’s a cruise line, Norwegian has built it with lots of activities for visitors.  

So, what are your options on Great Stirrup Cay?  

Lounging on the beach, soaking up the rays, or playing in the water is undoubtedly the most popular activity. Cruise passengers can try a lot more things, though. There are many ways to fill your day, regardless of whether money is no object or you want to stick to a budget.  

We’ve covered everything there is to do on Great Stirrup Cay, including free activities.  

Table of Contents

1. Take the Zipline Across the Island  

The lighthouse, the tallest structure on the island, will be the first thing you notice as you approach the island. It is not a real lighthouse but a staging point for the zipline that runs through Great Stirrup Cay. So, reaching the lighthouse is probably one of the most popular activities on the island.  

At a fee, you can strap in and soar through the air while enjoying breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings. You don’t get to fly over such spectacular scenery every day.   

Combine the Ospray and Seahawk zipline on Great Stirrup Cay experiences into one exciting day. You will fly six times on the Great Stirrup Cay zipline and climb through the forest canopy with a cargo net and a chimney climb. The climbs are interspersed with the wild thrills of flying high, heightening their intensity. Choose the complete package and the thrills and grandeur will stay with you forever.  

2. Try Taco Bar or Food Truck   

On Great Stirrup Cay, you have several options for lunch and snacks, including a free buffet. ‘Abaco Taco’ and ‘Tropic Like It’s Hot’ are unique places to eat.  

These locations are completely free; show up and let them know what you want. Abaco Taco’s menu is taco-centric. Ceviche, pulled pork sandwiches, and rum cake are among ‘Tropic Like It’s Hot’ offerings.  

If you want to grab a snack, these two locations are ideal.  

3. Enjoy Kayaking Excursion  

  The pristine waters surrounding Great Stirrup Cay beg you to get out on them, and w hat better way to do so than on a guided kayaking excursion? Bring the entire family, even if none have ever kayaked. Your guide will give you a brief orientation, including instructions on maneuvering a two-person kayak.   

Take it easy as you glide over clear, shallow water south of the cay. The tour follows the coastline, giving you a close-up look at its features and formations. See the marine life below, including stingrays and spectacular starfish.  

 4. Take a Wave Runner Tour  

A wave runner tour is one of the most exciting things to do in Great Stirrup Cay. After a brief instruction on how to operate your wave runner safely, you follow your tour guide to the open water. Visitors can swim in the waters at Star Fish Alley, where they can see starfish in the clear waters, as part of the tour. More experienced riders can enjoy soaring through the waters on their jet skis by moving up front with the tour guide. But don’t worry if you’re a beginner. There is still plenty of entertainment to be had.  

 5. Take Photos with Pigs  

The Bahamas is famous for its swimming pigs , which you can see from Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian offers a 90-minute tour that takes you to the pigs so you can enjoy swimming with the cute creatures and take some memorable photos.  

 6. Soar Through the Sky with a Parasailing Adventure  

Parasailing is another thrilling activity available on Great Stirrup Cay. Few experiences compare to the thrill of sailing through the sky while being pulled along by an experienced guide. If you’ve never been parasailing, this is a great way to learn the ropes with a professional guide. Step on board, and the ship’s crew will look after you. You will see Great Stirrup Cay in a new light from your vantage point in the sky, which you will remember for years.  

7. Take a Tour of the Snorkel Garden  

Under the calm ocean, there is a snorkeling garden. Off the coast of the beach, the cruise line installed several sculptures and other attractions. What’s cool is that you can find aquatic life here to see some wildlife in addition to the artwork.  

You can rent snorkeling equipment (including fins and a floating vest) and see what most people don’t get to see.  

8. Luxuriate in the Cabanas and Silver Cove Villas  

Claim your private retreat to take your vacation to the next level. There are two options: a beautiful open-air cabana or a luxurious Silver Core Villa. The villas include air conditioning, a television with on-demand movies, a full bathroom, and access to the delicious, upscale buffet. Furthermore, thanks to a retractable glass wall, you can access the beach and incredible, unobstructed views. Enjoy the privacy that both of these options provide.  

9. Take a Photo on the Swingsets  

Norwegian has you covered if you want the best photo of yourself. Double swings are located throughout the island (usually in the water). They’re the ideal location for an Instagram photo.  

Each set of swings is unique, including one near the Bacardi Bar that allows you to take a great photo in front of the water with the cruise ship in the background . There is no better place for a selfie if you use Instagram.  

10. Explore the Surrounding Waters on a Paddle Boarding Adventure  

Prepare to explore Bertram’s Cove on Great Stirrup Cay at your own pace. Stand Up Paddle Boarding, or SUP, is a fun and easy way to accomplish this. Rent a paddleboard, and the staff will give you pointers on how to get started. Once you’ve mastered the art of sailing, you’ll be treated to one-of-a-kind views of the beach and opportunities to see the local marine life.  

11. Encounter and Interact with Stingrays  

Spend time in the Stingray Encounter to prepare for an exciting experience. Following a briefing on how to interact safely with the stingrays, you will be transported to Stingray City Bahamas by boat. You’ll be surrounded as you lower yourself into the shallow water. You can even assist with the feeding of these tame stingrays. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by these gentle creatures as you hold one and possibly even kiss it.  

Bottomline   

Will you enjoy your stay on Great Stirrup Cay? Absolutely! This island has something for everyone, whether you want a relaxing beach day or a thrilling zipline adventure.  

• Norwegian Cruise Line

Great Stirrup Cay wave runner excursion pics

By Sawhock , February 5, 2023 in Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended Posts

Hi. Just off the Escape and we had a blast. While at GSC we did the Waverunner tour and at the end the guides mentioned a site to get the pics they took of us.  By the time we got back to the shorex hut they had packed up to include the QR code to the site. Back on ship the shorex team couldn’t provide what we were looking for and kept kicking us up to the NCL photos area but they were not the ones taking pics.   

does anyone happen to have a link to the website where they post the pics for the waverunner tour? I believe it was operated by ICOR LTD but unable to find anything online for them as well.   

thanks in advance if anyone has the link. Trying to avoid the phone tag with the NCL customer service if I can avoid it. 

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Share on other sites.

30 minutes ago, Sawhock said: Hi. Just off the Escape and we had a blast. While at GSC we did the Waverunner tour and at the end the guides mentioned a site to get the pics they took of us.  By the time we got back to the shorex hut they had packed up to include the QR code to the site. Back on ship the shorex team couldn’t provide what we were looking for and kept kicking us up to the NCL photos area but they were not the ones taking pics.    does anyone happen to have a link to the website where they post the pics for the waverunner tour? I believe it was operated by ICOR LTD but unable to find anything online for them as well.    thanks in advance if anyone has the link. Trying to avoid the phone tag with the NCL customer service if I can avoid it. 

Sorry, I can't answer your question but do you mind answering one for me?  Did they check for drivers licenses?

1 minute ago, dbrown84 said: Sorry, I can't answer your question but do you mind answering one for me?  Did they check for drivers licenses?

They did check the driver on the ship when I booked it.  And have us the releases to sign.  But don’t recall them checking on the island.  Could be wrong though 

11 minutes ago, Sawhock said: They did check the driver on the ship when I booked it.  And have us the releases to sign.  But don’t recall them checking on the island.  Could be wrong though 

wil e coyote

We are just off the Escape as well - and the waverunners were our favorite excursion of the whole cruise. I would also love to know the URL for the photos.

FYI, we were never asked to show our driver's licenses, and we booked on the ship. So YMMV!!!

• 3 months later...

Do anyone know if they weigh you for the wave runners in Great Stirrup Cay?

LatinaInTexas

1 hour ago, tahjai16 said: Do anyone know if they weigh you for the wave runners in Great Stirrup Cay?

They do not, just did this the other day. I thought it would be a show paced guided tour and it was anything but lol. They asked at the beginning who had experience and who wanted to go fast. They lined you up by your answer. We rode double and husband had no experience but wanted to go fast so we were number 6 in line. They encouraged these 6 to hold down on the throttle and go as fast as it could go to have the most fun. We did that and it was crazy fast! I was terrified at first but what could I do. When I looked back the other 8 in the group were like a mile away lol.

1 hour ago, LatinaInTexas said: They do not, just did this the other day. I thought it would be a show paced guided tour and it was anything but lol. They asked at the beginning who had experience and who wanted to go fast. They lined you up by your answer. We rode double and husband had no experience but wanted to go fast so we were number 6 in line. They encouraged these 6 to hold down on the throttle and go as fast as it could go to have the most fun. We did that and it was crazy fast! I was terrified at first but what could I do. When I looked back the other 8 in the group were like a mile away lol.

Lol too funny! I’m worried because I’m like literally 7 pounds over the weight limit but I have friends that ride all the time and some are well over 300lbs. So I didn’t want to purchase and they weigh me and they were tight about it. 

Here is the link you are looking for: http://jetskitours.photostockplus.com

18 hours ago, ramcmah0n said: Here is the link you are looking for: http://jetskitours.photostockplus.com  

Thank you!!!!!!

Unfortunately, it appears the vendor purges the photos after 30 days, so the photos from our excursion on 2/3 are gone. But this will be valuable for others who have the same question!!!

• 9 months later...

This was the URL from the wave runner Feb 29 on Great stirrup cay

On 5/21/2023 at 12:30 PM, tahjai16 said: Do anyone know if they weigh you for the wave runners in Great Stirrup Cay?

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Norwegian's Private Island

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CRUISES TO GREAT STIRRUP CAY ISLAND

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Welcome to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island paradise exclusive to Norwegian guests. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. Snorkel with sea turtles and colourful fish in warm turquoise waters. Peacefully glide along the coastline in a kayak, or soar high into the sky as you zipline across the island. Craft your own delicious taco at the complimentary Abaco Taco, whilst sipping on a refreshing drink. Do it all - or nothing at all - the choice is yours.

Explore Great Stirrup Cay

Explore Our Island Activities

• MI.Gallery.GreatStirrupCay.Zipline
• Simply take in the views.
• Wave Runner Tour
• Relax in your own cabana.
• Stringray Encounter
• MI.Gallery.GreatStirrupCay.Swings
• MI.Gallery.GreatStirrupCay.Beach Play
• Relax on the beach
• Enjoy a day at the beach
• Become one with the sea on our floating mats.
• Fate Of The Fancy Snorkel Adventure
• Grab a cool drink in the Bacardi Bar
• Paddle Board

Relax and Recharge at Our Dining Venues & Bars

Tropic Like It's Hot

Jumbey Beach Grill

Bacardi Bar

Bertram’s Bar

Take Relaxation to the Next Level at SILVER COVE

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.

Featured Shore Excursion SWIMMING WITH PIGS IN THE BAHAMAS

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 transportation to the island and interaction with these playful swimming pigs. Not to be missed!

What You Need To Know

Great Stirrup Cay CRUISE SHIPS

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Cruises To GREAT STIRRUP CAY