Norwegian Cruise Line Makes a Splash with the New Great Tides Waterpark
Norwegian Cruise Line is giving guests even more reasons to get excited about a visit to Great Stirrup Cay! The cruise line has officially unveiled its brand-new Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre attraction that brings an exciting new level of fun to Norwegian’s private island destination in the Bahamas.
Just ahead of its official opening, Norwegian Cruise Line celebrated the completion of the massive project with an exclusive preview event. Guests, travel partners, media, influencers, cruise line executives, and Bahamian officials gathered to experience the park for the very first time.
The celebration included a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, special food and beverage tastings, photo opportunities, signature cocktails, and a lively Junkanoo performance highlighting the vibrant culture of the Bahamas.
Photo credit: NCL
What Can Guests Expect at Great Tides Waterpark?
If you love waterslides, adventure, and making the most of a private island day, Great Tides Waterpark is designed to deliver plenty of excitement.
The park features an impressive 19 waterslides spread across several unique areas. At the heart of the park is the towering 170-foot Tidal Tower, featuring eight different slides for thrill-seekers.
Other highlights include:
- Cliffside Cove, featuring 10- and 15-foot cliff jumps
- The Wandering River, stretching more than 800 feet
- Splash Cay, a fun-filled area designed especially for younger guests
- Complimentary lounge chairs and umbrellas
- Private cabanas available for rent
- The Floataway Swim-Up Bar
- Three food trucks offering convenient dining options throughout the day
Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping thrills or a relaxing day under the Bahamian sun, the new waterpark offers something for every type of cruiser.
Opening Day Has Arrived
Great Tides Waterpark officially opens to Norwegian Cruise Line guests on September 4, 2026.
The honor of bringing the first regular guests to experience the park goes to Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest Prima Plus Class ship. The ship departed Miami on August 29 for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing and is scheduled to call on Great Stirrup Cay for the waterpark’s opening day.
Guests should keep in mind that access to Great Tides Waterpark requires a separately purchased day pass. Pricing may vary depending on the sailing, travel dates, and demand.
Photo credit: NCL
A Major Transformation for Great Stirrup Cay
The new waterpark is part of a much larger transformation taking place at Great Stirrup Cay.
In addition to Great Tides Waterpark, Norwegian Cruise Line has added a new dual-berth pier, allowing ships to dock directly at the island. This means guests can now walk ashore rather than relying on tender boats—a welcome improvement that makes visiting the island even easier and more convenient.
Together, the new pier and Great Tides Waterpark represent two of the biggest changes ever made to Norwegian’s private island destination.
For families, thrill-seekers, and anyone who loves making the most of their cruise vacation, Great Stirrup Cay is quickly becoming a destination that is just as exciting as the ports of call themselves.
Would you spend your day racing down waterslides, floating along the Wandering River, or relaxing with a drink by the water? Either way, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest private island experience is sure to make waves!