Great Stirrup Cay, NCL Private Island Destination Guide & Map

Great Stirrup Cay is a tropical island paradise in the Bahamas, featuring pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Lines, this private island is a popular stop on The Bahamas and Caribbean cruises. You’ll find various fun activities, including ziplining, snorkeling, swimming with pigs, kayaking, and parasailing. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, the idyllic island offers something for everyone, making it an unforgettable destination on your cruise itinerary.

But imagine stepping onto this beautiful Bahamian island and not knowing how to spend your day. You might end up on a busy beach and miss the most exhilarating activities. Or you may discover that the best shore attractions are already taken. Without a clear plan for your cruise day, you may not fully experience the tropical paradise.

This guide is your key to unlocking the best attractions on Great Stirrup Cay. I’ve reviewed all the island offers, including the top free activities, exciting shore excursions, beautiful beaches, and the finest dining spots.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this guide ensures you won’t miss a thing, making your visit to Great Stirrup Cay as memorable and enjoyable as possible.

Where is Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas?

Great Stirrup Cay (GSC) is part of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas, nestled between Nassau in the south and Grand Bahama (Freeport) in the North. The 268-acre (1.08 sq km) cruise line private island is approximately 142 miles (228 km) east of Miami. It’s one of the thousands of islands and cays in the Bahamas archipelago.

The nearby CocoCay (Little Stirrup Cay) is a private island cruise line owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Great Stirrup Cay?

Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Denis Santana, Flickr

Great Stirrup Cay is a tender port because of the shallow waters and lack of deep-water piers, which means cruise ships must anchor offshore. Smaller boats take passengers from the ship to shore, a process called tendering. The travel time is around ten minutes. However, reaching the shore can take up to 90 minutes, depending on your place in line.

tender boat Great Stirrup Cay
Tender boat at Great Stirrup Cay. Image: Denis Santana, Flickr

Which Cruise Lines Dock at Great Stirrup Cay?

Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Denis Santana, Flickr

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) owns Great Stirrup Cay. Therefore, only NCL cruise ships dock at the island. Although NCL owns Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, these cruise lines typically visit Caribbean islands.

Great Stirrup Cay: A Premium Cruise Destination in the Bahamas

beach Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Ekem, Wikimedia Commons

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings purchased Great Stirrup Cay in 1977. Since then, the cruise company has invested millions of dollars to develop it as a premium private cruise port.

NCL has added island activities, including wave runners, an underwater sculpture garden, a zipline adventure, and an oceanside boardwalk. Also, Silver Cove is a private retreat on the island with secluded cabanas, deluxe beach villas, a private beach, and a luxurious spa.

In 2014, Norwegian Cruise Lines started constructing a cruise pier on the private island. This will allow two NCL cruise ships to dock simultaneously—it will handle NCL’s largest cruise ships. The pier is expected to be completed by 2025 at a cost of over $150 million.

Arriving at Great Stirrup Cay Cruise Port

Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Armsoo, Wikimedia Commons

Arriving on a tender boat at Great Stirrup is an exciting experience, especially if this is your first cruise in the Bahamas. As the boat approaches, you’ll be awe-struck by the vibrant turquoise waters, the pristine white sandy beaches, and the island’s lush greenery, creating a stunning contrast. You’ll feel like you’re in a postcard-perfect tropical paradise.

Getting Around Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay is easy to navigate on foot, with well-marked paths leading to various attractions. For example, it’s a one-minute walk from the tender port to the main beach on the island. If you prefer not to walk, complimentary trams are available to take you to the beaches farthest from the harbor.

What to Pack for a Cruise Day in Great Stirrup Cay

When preparing to spend the day on Great Stirrup Cay, pack the essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Since the island offers various water activities, don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, beach towel, and water shoes for comfort and convenience. If you plan on ziplining, take close-toed shoes.

Packaging a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day is also recommended. For purchases and tipping, bring some cash to the island. However, you can use your cruise card for seamless transactions at the bars and dining venues on the island.

How to Get the Best Out of Your Day on Great Stirrup Cay

To make the most of your visit, disembark early to avoid crowds and explore the island before it gets busy. Always book shore excursions in advance. This means you get priority when disembarking to ensure you participate in the activities you’re most interested in. It’s also worth eating lunch earlier to avoid standing in line at the complimentary buffet.

Free Things to Do in Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas
Image: Kate Webster, Flickr

As the adage goes, the best things in life are free. What are the best activities in Great Stirrup Cay that won’t cost you a dime to enjoy? Great Stirrup Cay offers various free activities that allow you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Here are some of the best things you can do without spending extra money.

Hiking along the lush nature trails

hiking in Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Kate Webster, Flickr

Hiking along lush nature trails is one of the best free and tranquil activities on Great Stirrup Cay. Self-guided nature walks meander through the island’s verdant landscape. You can walk east to the lighthouse and beyond from the tender port. Also, the beachfront walking path offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse
Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse. Image: User516, Wikimedia Commons

Walking, you’ll encounter the island’s flora and fauna, including seagrapes and coconut palms. The island is also home to several species of lizards and land crabs. The trails are well-marked and accessible, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all fitness levels. 

Beach sports

beach sport Great Stirrup Cay

Enjoying beach sports is a fantastic free way to spend time on Great Stirrup Cay. Several beaches on the island have areas for volleyball or soccer. Or you may want to enjoy a casual game of frisbee with friends or fellow cruisers. The soft sands and beautiful ocean backdrop offer a fun and active way to experience the island’s beauty without any extra cost. 

Relax on the main beach (Bertram Beach)

Image: Kate Webster, Flickr

Relaxing on Bertram Beach is one of the simplest and most enjoyable free activities on Great Stirrup Cay. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot to lay back and soak up the sun. Also, the beach loungers are free, so you can unwind on the beach without spending a cent.

Most activities at Great Stirrup Cay involve the pristine beaches and crystalline blue waters. If you have snorkeling gear, you can swim in the sparkling, warm waters, exploring marine life. However, it’s good to note that you must pay additional charges for umbrellas or a cabana. So, try to get to the beach early to pick a shady spot.

Snorkeling at the underwater sculpture garden

snorkeling in Great Stirrup Cay

Bring snorkeling gear and explore the underwater sculpture garden in Bertram’s Cove. The snorkeling trail and rock formations are on the north side of the cove. Here, you’ll see interesting statues of mermaids, sea creatures, urns, and fountains. These are not only interesting for humans, but also, they provide homes for lobster, shrimp, and crab.

The free attraction is for anyone with snorkeling gear on the island. Additionally, you should look out for sea turtles and tropical fish while exploring the underwater world in the cove.

Get photos on the beach swings for free

beach swings

Swinging on the beach swings is a delightful and free activity on Great Stirrup Cay. Set against the stunning backdrop of turquoise waters and sandy shores, the swings offer a perfect spot to capture memories of your stay. They also provide a tranquil and romantic experience with a loved one without any cost.

Enjoy lunch at the complimentary buffet

Image: happyskrappy, Flickr

You don’t have to pay for lunch on Great Stirrup Cay as the food is free and included in the cruise cost. The three main complimentary restaurants on the island are Jumbey Beach Grill, Abaco Taco, and Tropic Like It’s Hot. Here is a brief description of each food outlet:

  • Jumbey Beach Grill: Located near the center of Bertram’s Beach, this grill offers a variety of BBQ favorites. You can choose from burgers, hot dogs, grilled jerk chicken, pizzas, salads, and desserts. It’s the most popular restaurant on the island, perfect for a casual and satisfying free meal by the water.
  • Abaco Taco: Situated at the north end of the beach, Abaco Taco serves delicious, freshly made tacos. The Tex-Mex cuisine offers a choice of chicken, beef, or fish with a range of toppings and sauces. This food shack is popular for a quick snack.
  • Tropic Like It’s Hot: This vibrant food truck spot is near the beach cabanas at the west end of the beach. It offers a mix of hot and cold dishes with a tropical flair. You can choose between salads, sandwiches, and local specialties. It’s an ideal stop for a quick bite while exploring the island.

Fun Activities for a Cruise Day in Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Lines has ensured that guests have plenty of shore excursions on the uninhabited island from which to choose. The excursions can cost between $30 and $200, depending on the attraction. Here’s what is on offer when you get to the island.

Try an exhilarating ziplining adventure

The ziplining adventure on Great Stirrup Cay is one of the island’s most thrilling and adrenaline-pumping activities. You can soar high above the island, taking in breathtaking panoramic views. The zipline course starts from the “Flighthouse,” the tallest structure on the island. The island has two zip lines—Osprey and Seahawk.

Flighthouse Zipline Adventure

Flighthouse zipline
The “Flighthouse”. Image: Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

The most exciting ziplining adventure is the Seahawk, starting from the Flighthouse. From a height of 130 feet (40 m), you soar nearly 1,400 feet (426 m) over the beach and cay to the Silver Cove lagoon. The return includes crossing a 105-foot (32 m) V-net bridge, a chimney climb, and a cargo net climb. The activity requires a reasonable amount of stamina.

Osprey zipline

The Osprey Zipline includes three thrilling flights. The first, at 185 feet (56 m) long and 120 (36 m) feet high, offers an exciting start. The second flight spans 850 feet (259 m), descending from a 75-foot (23 m) platform. The final 900-foot (274 m) flight returns you to ground level, providing breathtaking aerial views of Great Stirrup Cay. This adventure is perfect if you enjoy thrills and stunning scenery.

Island zipline adventure

Choose the fantastic Island Zipline Adventure for the most exhilarating fun on the island. It combines the Osprey Zipline with the Seahawk Zip for a total of six thrilling ziplines. This adventure offers breathtaking views of the beach and reef, providing an adrenaline-filled and unforgettable day. The challenging activity is not for the faint-hearted.

Book a stingray encounter

stingray

Embark on a memorable 1.5-hour adventure to Stingray City. This experience begins with a scenic boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay to the stingray habitat at Goat Cay. Here, you can interact with these fascinating creatures in shallow waters. You can swim, snorkel, and wade in the water to observe, touch, and feed these beautiful marine creatures.

Expert guides help you learn more about the curious rays. It’s the perfect shore excursion for families to combine education, excitement, and water activities. Be sure to book early, as it’s one of the most popular excursions for cruise passengers.  

Enjoy a guided kayaking tour

Experience the serene beauty of Great Stirrup Cay on a kayak tour. Paddle through the island’s crystal-clear waters, exploring the scenic shoreline and discovering hidden coves. The calm, turquoise sea provides a perfect setting for observing marine life and viewing the island from the shore. It’s a popular excursion for nature lovers.

A guided kayak tour is the best way to experience the island’s beauty. Knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem and flora and fauna. After the tour, your appreciation of the island’s natural beauty will be enhanced.

Hire a paddleboard in Bertram’s Cove

paddleboarding

The shallow, calm, gentle waters in Bertram’s Cove make it the perfect sport for stand-up paddleboarding. Gliding across the pristine waters gives you a unique perspective of the island. You can also explore the scenic coastline around Silver Cove.

Paddleboarding is easy to learn, and the calm conditions of Grand Stirrup Cay are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride or a bit of a workout, paddleboarding in Great Stirrup Cay is a fantastic way to spend part of your cruise day.

Rent a floating mat

floating mat

You can rent a floating mat for a nominal fee to relax on the gentle, crystal-clear waters in Bertram’s Cove. Floating on the serene waters lets you drift lazily in peaceful surroundings. It’s the perfect way to soak up the sun, chat with friends, or simply unwind as the ocean gently rocks your cares away.

Experience swimming with pigs

swim with pigs Great Stirrup Cay

One of the most memorable excursions on Great Stirrup Cay is swimming with pigs. The Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island is a short 10-minute boat ride from the Cay. After a brief introduction and safety chat, you enter the water to await the arrival of the friendly pigs. They swim out to greet you, where you can feed them apple chunks and rub their bellies.

Swimming with pigs is a memorable, interactive experience perfect for all ages. Not only can you feed, pet, and swim alongside these charming animals, but you also get to explore a tiny, uninhabited island. Professional guides ensure that everyone—humans and their four-legged friends—have a fun day out.

Take a catamaran marine life and eco boat tour

catamaran excursion

Explore the natural beauty of Great Stirrup Cay on a catamaran marine life and eco-boat tour. This excursion starts with a scenic sail aboard a comfortable 40-foot (12 m) catamaran. Your guide will share insights about the island’s rich marine ecosystem, local wildlife, and habitats. During the tour, you may encounter sea turtles, tropical fish, sharks, and stingrays.

The eco-boat tour is a great way to educate yourself about the diverse marine life and ecology of the Bahamas. At the same time, you get to enjoy a relaxing day on a luxury catamaran. 

Enjoy the exhilarating Wave Runner Tour

jet ski

Experience the thrill of speed and adventure on the exhilarating Wave Runner Tour. This guided tour explores the Berry Islands close to Great Stirrup Cay. You get to power through the water, taking in landmarks like The Lighthouse, Slaughter Harbor, and the abandoned community of Cistern Cay.

Riding the jet skis also gives you a unique perspective of the island’s stunning coastline. You also get to stop and swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The excursion takes about 60 minutes, so you have plenty of time for the beach, lunch, and other attractions on the island.

Parasailing to get a bird’s eye view of Great Stirrup Cay

Parasailing is one of the most exhilarating adventures at Great Stirrup Cay. As you soar high above the island, you enjoy breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush landscapes. The excursion includes a 45-minute boat ride and about ten minutes in the air.

Experienced guides take you through all the necessary safety features. Very soon, you’ll be enjoying the thrill of flying while taking in the stunning Bahamian scenery below. This activity is perfect if you want to experience the excitement and a unique perspective of the island.

Beaches and Swimming Areas in Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay is renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The powder-soft sand makes the shoreline ideal for relaxing, beach sports, and walking. Also, complimentary beach loungers are available at most beaches if you get there early enough.

Bertram’s Beach (Main Beach)

Bertram’s Beach
Image: Kate Webster, Flickr

Bertram Beach is the main beach on Great Stirrup Cay and is closest to the tender port. Like most beaches in the Bahamas, it has soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Complimentary loungers and hammocks under palm trees provide a relaxing setting. Clamshell sunshades are available for an additional cost.

This bustling beach offers various amenities, including nearby bars, restrooms, and facilities for beach sports. Arrive early to secure the best spots, or rent a clamshell on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bertram Beach is named after a British naval commander, Allan Bertram, who used to own the island and is buried near the harbor. He’s one of two people buried on the island.

The facilities at Bertram Beach include the following:

  • Restrooms
  • Bars serving complimentary drinks
  • Beach sports
  • Complimentary beach loungers
  • Snorkeling gear rentals
  • Floating mats for hire

It’s important to note that the beach gets crowded quickly; therefore, you should get there early if you plan on spending a beach day on the island.

Image: happyskrappy, Flickr

Cabana Beach

cabana beach
Image: qwesy qwesy, Wikimedia Commons

Adjacent to Bertram Beach is Cabana Beach. As its name suggests, this part of Bertram’s Cove is where the private cabanas are. Here, you can find ten large cabanas on the beachfront. Although open to the public, the beach is typically less crowded than the main beach on the island.

Fiesta Beach

This pristine stretch of shoreline is between Cabana Beach and the private beach of Silver Cove. This is the beach farthest from the tender port. The beach is popular for its small, six-person private cabanas on the beachfront. The cabanas have all the amenities you need to spend an enjoyable beach day.

Silver Cove Beach

Silver Cove Beach
Image: Robert Pittman, Flickr

Silver Cove Beach on the west side of Great Stirrup Cay offers a luxurious and tranquil beach experience. This exclusive area features pristine sands, clear waters, and luxurious beachfront villas. Reserved for high-paying guests, the private beach offers the ultimate relaxation, privacy, and premium amenities. 

Wellness and Relaxation in Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay is a serene oasis if you want relaxation, rejuvenation, and to care for your wellness. The exclusive Silver Cove resort has the luxurious Mandara Spa, offering various massage services and spa treatments. 

Treat yourself to a relaxing spa

spa

Indulge in a serene spa experience on Great Stirrup Cay at the Norwegian Cruise Line’s signature Mandara Spa. Here, you can enjoy a range of rejuvenating treatments that will leave you feeling pampered and revitalized. Skilled therapists offer soothing massages, revitalizing facials, or full-body treatments. You can also relax in the outdoor hot tub with beautiful ocean views.

Treatments available at the Mandara Spa include the following:

  • Elemis Biotec Facials energize the skin and deep-cleans the pores
  • Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy treatments for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Elemis Aroma Stone Therapy
  • Thai Herbal Poultice Massage
  • Bamboo massage for the ultimate in muscle tension release and deep relaxation
  • Couples massage
  • Ionithermie Cellulite Reduction Program to reduce the appearance of cellulite
  • Elemis Aroma Spa Seaweed Massage
  • Acupuncture

If you’re interested in using the spa on the island, check ahead to see which services they offer while you’re in port.

Hire a private cabana or villa for the day

private cabana

Escape the hustle and bustle of cruise crowds with the perfect tranquil getaway in one of Great Stirrup Cay’s exclusive villas or cabanas. The luxurious retreats include premium amenities, personalized service, and exclusive beach access. They are perfect for relaxation and comfort when traveling as a couple, with family, or with a large group of friends.

Here are the options available:

  • Classic Cabana: This open-air retreat accommodates up to six guests. It provides a shaded place to lounge and enjoy ocean views and has the necessary amenities to enjoy a beach day in peace.
  • Premier Cabana: This is ideal for small groups or families of up to eight people. It features an open-air design with complimentary bottled water, floating mats, and access to a secluded beach.
  • Silver Cove Ocean Villa: This villa offers air-conditioning, a TV, a private restroom, and beach access for up to six guests. You also get two complimentary lounge chairs, a beach umbrella, and access to the exclusive Silver Cove buffet.
  • Silver Cove Lagoon Villa: This villa is perfect for larger families wanting a more luxurious beach experience. It can accommodate up to eight guests and has the same facilities as the Ocean Villa. However, you can also access an upgraded buffet and the Mandara Spa.

Shopping in Great Stirrup Cay

Shopping in Great Stirrup Cay
Image: Jim Pennucci, Flickr

Great Stirrup Cay has some good shopping options. You can immerse yourself in local culture and buy souvenirs as a memento of your day in paradise. Local vendors from Great Harbor Cay travel to the Cay to sell authentic handcrafted items, gifts, and island-themed merchandise.

Berried Treasure Bazaar is a straw market consisting of several stalls. You can buy clothing, accessories, crafts, souvenirs, and mementos of the island. The vendors are not connected with NCL, so you must use cash when purchasing items.

The name of the market is a play on words, as the Cay is located in the Berry Islands of the Bahamas.

Bars on Great Stirrup Cay

cocktails

As you’d expect in the Bahamas, the beaches in Great Stirrup Cay have several bars located strategically along the shoreline. These serve various rum drinks, tropical cocktails, and cold beers. You can also enjoy lively music as you enjoy the local Bahamian vibes.

Here are the bars available on the island:

  • Lighthouse Beach Bar: Located near the “Tropic Like It’s Hot” food truck, the Lighthouse Bar offers a variety of tropical cocktails, refreshing beverages, and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Bacardi Bar: This vibrant bar is located in the middle of the main beach area. It’s known for its extensive selection of Bacardi rum cocktails, live DJ music, and shaded terraces.
  • Bertram’s Bar: This bar provides a cozy and inviting setting for a more relaxed drinking experience. You can choose from a range of tropical cocktails to slush drinks to cool down in the hot Bahamian sunshine.
  • Patron Bar: Located at the north end of the main beach, Patron Bar specializes in premium Patron tequila cocktails. Its beachfront location is perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink as you chill out with friends.

It’s important to note that you buy drinks on Great Stirrup Cay the same way you do onboard. Therefore, if you have the appropriate NCL drinks package, you get unlimited beverages—including alcoholic drinks—on the island. Otherwise, you use your cruise card to charge drinks to your account on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Silver Cove Great Stirrup Cay: A Luxurious Island Experience

Silver Cove lagoon

Silver Cove Resort on Great Stirrup Cay offers guests an opulent cruise day experience. It has a private beach, swimming pool, and luxury cabanas. The stunning beach is well-maintained, and its transparent waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or unwinding on a floating mat.

Lagoon Villas

Silver Cove offers a range of luxurious and private retreats around the lagoon on Great Stirrup Cay. These modern, air-conditioned accommodations provide stunning ocean views, comfortable seating, and exclusive amenities. Depending on the villa, they accommodate between six and 16 guests. Features of the lagoon villas include:

  • A private restroom
  • Retractable glass walls
  • Private beach access
  • TV
  • Complimentary food and beverages
  • Spa access

Mandara Spa

spa

Mandara Spa at Silver Cove offers a serene escape with an exclusive range of rejuvenating treatments. Guests can enjoy massages, facials, and body treatments in a tranquil setting, enhancing relaxation and wellness. The spa’s luxurious ambiance and professional staff ensure a memorable and therapeutic experience.

It’s important to remember that making an appointment at the Mandara Spa also gives you access to Silver Cove’s exclusive amenities. These include the buffet restaurant, beach loungers, umbrellas, and the Moët bar.

Moët & Chandon Ice Bar

Moët & Chandon Ice Bar

The Moët & Chandon Bar at Silver Cove offers a luxurious, exclusive champagne experience on Great Stirrup Cay. Here, you can enjoy a selection of Moët & Chandon champagnes and cocktails in a sophisticated beachfront setting. The bar provides an elegant ambiance with lush palm trees providing shade. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing and celebrating in style. 

Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar

The Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale dining experience in an elegant beachfront setting. Guests staying at the villas or visiting the spa can enjoy an upmarket buffet lunch. For example, you can enjoy delicious treats like grilled lobster tail, shrimp, and steaks. The ambiance is enhanced by umbrella tables while taking in stunning ocean views.

Great Stirrup Cay: FAQs

Great  Stirrup Cay
Image: Oscar Flowers, Wikimedia Commons

What makes Great Stirrup Cay unique?

Great Stirrup Cay stands out among other private islands due to its pristine beaches and amenities. The island features various exclusive activities, from snorkeling and ziplining to swimming with pigs and stingrays. Its natural beauty and curated experiences ensure a memorable visit for all cruise passengers.​

When is the best time to visit Great Stirrup Cay?

The dry season is the best time to visit the Bahamas, including Great Stirrup Cay. This is the period from late November through April when you can enjoy pleasant, warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Cruising the Bahamas in the dry seasons ensures you can fully enjoy the many outdoor activities available on the island.

Are you looking for a cheap cruise in the Bahamas? In that case, look for cruises in the fall. This is at the end of hurricane season and before peak season starts in early December.

How safe is Great Stirrup Cay?

Great Stirrup Cay is safe for tourists because it’s a private island exclusively managed by Norwegian Cruise Line. The island is well-staffed with security and medical personnel to ensure guests’ safety and well-being. The controlled access and environment also contribute to a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

Do you need cash on Great Stirrup Cay?

Cash is not necessary on Great Stirrup Cay, as you can use your cruise ship card for most transactions. This includes purchases for drinks, onshore activities, and the spa. However, you may need cash if you plan on shopping in the straw market for souvenirs. Cash in U.S. dollars is also helpful for tipping.

Is food included at Great Stirrup Cay?

When you dock at Great Stirrup Cay, food is included in the cruise cost. The island offers several buffet and grill areas serving complimentary food. However, some food items may incur an additional fee.

Do I have to pay for beverages at Great Stirrup Cay?

If you have a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package, beverages on Great Stirrup Cay are included. This includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the island’s bars and restaurants. Without a drink package, you will need to pay for beverages separately.

Can you stay on Great Stirrup Cay?

Overnight stays are unavailable on Great Stirrup Cay, as the island is exclusively for cruise passengers. You can enjoy the island’s amenities and activities during the day and then return to their cruise ship in the evening.

Is it possible to visit Great Stirrup Cay without a cruise?

No, you cannot visit the island without a cruise sponsored by NCL. The island’s private ownership ensures that only guests from the cruise line can enjoy its facilities and activities. Booking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines is the only way to experience Great Stirrup Cay.

Is there free WiFi in Great Stirrup Cay?

WiFi is not available on Great Stirrup Cay, but cellular data is available depending on your mobile network plan. However, you can use the day on the island to unplug and enjoy the natural surroundings without distractions.  

Is there a swimming pool on Great Stirrup Cay?

The only swimming pool on Great Stirrup Cay is the infinity pool in the Silver Cove exclusive resort. If you have access to the resort, you can enjoy the luxurious pool with plenty of loungers and complimentary drinks from the bar.

What currency is used on Great Stirrup Cay?

The official currency of Great Stirrup Cay is the U.S. dollar. Most transactions are cashless and charged to your cruise ship card, simplifying purchases for food, drinks, and activities. Having some small bills for tipping and any potential cash-only vendors is advisable.

What language is spoken on Great Stirrup Cay?

The primary language spoken on Great Stirrup Cay is English. The staff and crew are from the ship and are fluent in English, making it easy for visitors to communicate and enjoy their time on the island. All signs and information are in English, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Related articles:

Adam Stewart
Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *