If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping onto a private island that feels like paradise — soft white sand, turquoise waters, and just enough tropical energy to remind you you’re far from the everyday world — then Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay might just be your dream come true.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit this island, and every time, I pick up a few new things that most people don’t realize until they’re there.
So, whether you’re planning your first cruise to the Bahamas or you’re just curious about how NCL’s private island stacks up against places like CocoCay, here are 16 insider secrets and must-know tips to make the most of your day at Great Stirrup Cay.
1. Norwegian Cruise Line Actually Owns the Island
A lot of cruisers don’t realize that NCL owns Great Stirrup Cay outright — unlike some private cruise islands that are leased from local governments.
Norwegian bought the island way back in 1977 from the Belcher Oil Company, long before private cruise islands became the trend.
Over the decades, they’ve poured millions into upgrades. In the early ’90s, it was even marketed as “Pleasure Island” (no, not the Disney one!).
In 2017, the island saw another major transformation with new beach areas, cabanas, and upgraded dining.
And the best part? Norwegian is renovating it again in 2025, with even more additions on the way — including a pier and pool that are going to completely change how guests experience the island.
Fun fact: The next island over, Little Stirrup Cay, is home to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay — so if you’ve ever wondered why they look so close on the map, that’s why!
2. You Can’t Fly There — Despite What Google Says
A few travelers are surprised when they see “Great Stirrup Cay International Airport” pop up on Google Maps — but trust me, there’s no airport in operation here.
That small airstrip dates back to the island’s military history and hasn’t been used in years. The only way to visit Great Stirrup Cay is on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.
So no, you can’t fly in for a weekend stay (though that would be pretty tempting, wouldn’t it?).
3. It’s Still a Tender Port — But Not for Long
One of the quirks of visiting Great Stirrup Cay right now is that it’s a tender port, meaning your cruise ship anchors offshore and you take a smaller boat (a tender) to reach the island.
The ride is short — just a few minutes — but tendering means you’ll want to plan your day carefully.
If you have spa appointments or evening entertainment later on the ship, avoid waiting until the last minute to line up for your return tender.
Lines can get long, especially around lunchtime or toward the end of the day when everyone decides to head back at once.
Pro tip: Go ashore early, then plan to return to the ship before the last-hour rush.
But here’s the big news — by late 2025, NCL will finish building a dual-ship pier, which means you’ll soon be able to walk straight off the ship and onto the island, no more tender lines!
4. Food Is Free — And Delicious
If you’re wondering whether you’ll have to pay for lunch on the island, the answer is a satisfying no.
Food at Great Stirrup Cay is included with your cruise fare, and there are a few different spots to grab a bite:
- Jumbey Beach Grill – The main buffet with all the BBQ classics: burgers, chicken, ribs, salads, and desserts.
- Abaco Taco Bar – Great for a quick, casual lunch with build-your-own tacos and fresh toppings.
- Food Truck – Offers sandwiches and lighter bites, located near the cabanas and villas.
- Silver Cove Buffet – An exclusive, upscale option for guests staying in the Silver Cove villas.
Note for special diets: The options are a bit limited for strict dietary needs. If you have specific restrictions, it’s easier to pop back to the ship for lunch — especially since it’s close by.
5. U.S. Passengers Don’t Need a Passport
If you’re a U.S. citizen sailing from and returning to a U.S. port, you don’t need a passport to visit Great Stirrup Cay — a state-certified birth certificate and government-issued ID are enough.
That said, I always recommend bringing your passport anyway. In the rare event your cruise is delayed or rerouted, having it on hand can save you a major headache if you need to fly home.
International guests, of course, will need valid passports for their trip.
6. The Island Has Its Own Historic Lighthouse
If you love exploring the quieter corners of cruise islands, here’s something most people completely miss on Great Stirrup Cay — it actually has a historic lighthouse that’s been standing since 1863!
It was originally built by the Imperial Lighthouse Service to guide ships safely through the Berry Islands, back when this area was a major maritime route.
Today, it’s fully automated and solar powered, but it still works — a small, flashing reminder of the island’s seafaring past.
The lighthouse stands about 17 meters tall, and while you can’t climb it, you can still spot it from parts of the island if you wander far enough from the main beach.
I love walking toward the quieter paths near the edge of the island just to get a peek. It’s a great photo spot and a reminder that this slice of paradise isn’t just beaches and cocktails — it’s got real history written into it.
7. Drinks Packages Work Here Too
Good news for anyone with an NCL drink package — it does work on Great Stirrup Cay! You can order your cocktails, mocktails, or sodas just like you would on the ship, and they’ll be included under your package plan.
Just remember: if your package has a per-drink limit (for example, $15 per drink), you’ll need to pay the difference for anything that exceeds that value.
Still, being able to sip a frozen margarita on the beach without paying extra feels pretty fantastic.
8. Drinks Aren’t Free by Default
Drinks on Great Stirrup Cay aren’t automatically included — but they work exactly like they do onboard.
You’ll use your cruise key card to buy drinks, and the charges go straight to your onboard account.
The main hub is the Bacardi Bar, located right by the beach (and yes, it serves way more than just Bacardi!).
You’ll also find satellite bars near the Mexican restaurant, cabana areas, and the villas — plus attendants who’ll bring drinks right to your lounger.
So, even though it’s a private island, bring your key card — it’s your wallet for the day.
9. Cabanas Can Be Rented for the Day — But They’re Pricey
If you love a little extra comfort and privacy, you can rent a private cabana for the day. These are perfect for groups or anyone who wants shade, space, and dedicated service.
There are two main types:
- Small cabanas: For up to 6 guests, starting around $425 per day
- Large cabanas: For up to 8 guests, starting around $449 per day
Each cabana includes:
- Ceiling fan for ventilation
- Complimentary snacks (fruit, chips, salsa) and bottled water
- Loungers and shaded seating area
- Access to an attendant who can bring food and drinks directly to you
They’re open-air and simple, but the convenience (and peace) is worth it — especially on hot or crowded days.
10. Most Activities Cost Extra
Great Stirrup Cay has a lot to do, but beyond the beach, most excursions and activities come at an extra cost.
You can book things like:
- Snorkeling and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters
- WaveRunner tours around the Berry Islands
- Floating mats and water sports rentals
If you want to secure a specific excursion, it’s best to book in advance through your Cruise Planner, as popular tours can sell out quickly.
If you’re happy with a beach day and some casual exploring, you won’t spend a dime beyond drinks — but if you’re craving adventure, budget a little extra.
11. No Pool Yet — But the Ocean Is Perfect for Swimming
If you’re wondering whether there’s a pool, the answer (for now) is no. But don’t worry — the calm coves around the island make swimming in the ocean an absolute joy.
The water is clear, shallow, and warm, and some coves are naturally protected from waves, making them perfect for families with young kids.
And here’s exciting news: Norwegian has announced a massive heated pool opening in late 2025 as part of the island’s renovation.
It’ll feature separate zones for adults and families, plus live DJ entertainment.
Until then, you can always head back to the ship if you prefer a pool swim — the decks are usually blissfully quiet when everyone’s ashore.
12. Yes, You Can Actually Swim With Pigs!
I’ll be honest — I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first booked the swimming with pigs excursion, but it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had in the Bahamas.
The excursion takes place on a small neighboring island, just a 10-minute speedboat ride from Great Stirrup Cay.
Once you arrive, you’ll meet the famous pigs in a safe cove where you can feed them apples, pet them, and even swim alongside them.
Before you jump in, there’s a quick safety briefing, and guides stay nearby the whole time.
What to Know:
- Cost: Around $150 for adults and $110 for kids
- Duration: About 90 minutes total
- Suitable for families (kids love it!)
- Includes apples or sticks for feeding the pigs
It’s one of those “only in the Bahamas” moments that feels straight out of a postcard.
13. There’s No “Haven” Area — But Silver Cove Is the Next Best Thing
Unlike other private islands that have a designated area for suite guests, The Haven doesn’t have its own section on Great Stirrup Cay.
Instead, Norwegian created Silver Cove, a luxurious enclave open to anyone who books one of the private villas there.
Here’s what to expect:
- Ocean Villas – from $699 per day
- Lagoon Villas – from $899 per day (1-bedroom) or $1,100 (2-bedroom) for up to 16 guests
Each villa includes:
- Air conditioning
- Full bathrooms with showers
- TV with on-demand movies
- Private beach seating
- Exclusive buffet restaurant
- Access to the Moët & Chandon Bar, where you can sip champagne designed to be served over ice
It’s not cheap, but if you’re celebrating something special or traveling in a group, it’s the ultimate way to experience the island.
14. Two Hidden Graves Tell the Island’s Forgotten Stories
It’s hard to imagine anything spooky or solemn on an island this beautiful, but tucked away near the visitor area, there’s a small, fenced-off plot containing two graves — a quiet, haunting reminder of the island’s past.
One belongs to Captain Allan Bertram, a Royal Navy officer and one-time owner of the island. The main swimming area, Bertram’s Cove, is actually named after him.
The other grave belongs to Elizabeth Wright Braden Hixson, a passenger who died at sea back in 1838 and was buried here.
When I first came across them, I was struck by how peaceful the spot felt — surrounded by swaying palms, birdsong, and the sound of waves nearby.
Most people walk right past without realizing it’s there, but if you love uncovering the hidden layers of a destination, this is one of those rare details that connects you directly to the island’s deeper story.
15. Don’t Count on WiFi
One of the few downsides? There’s no WiFi available on Great Stirrup Cay.
There is a cell tower, though, so if your phone plan includes international roaming or data, you can connect using that.
Personally, I treat this as a rare opportunity to unplug completely. It’s nice to have a day where your biggest concern is whether to order another drink or go for a swim.
But if you really need to get online, you can always take a quick tender back to the ship and use your onboard WiFi plan.
16. Some Crew Actually Live on the Island
This one surprises a lot of guests — a small number of NCL staff live temporarily on Great Stirrup Cay to keep the island running smoothly.
Most of the food you eat on the island is actually prepared on the ship early in the morning and brought ashore by tender.
Even many of the servers and bartenders you meet are from your cruise ship, rotating shifts between the ship and the island.
The only non-cruise-line workers you’ll see are local Bahamian vendors who ferry over daily from Great Harbour Cay to run the straw market and sell souvenirs.
17. Great Stirrup Cay Isn’t CocoCay — But They’re Neighbors
It’s easy to confuse the two because they’re right next to each other, but Great Stirrup Cay belongs to Norwegian Cruise Line, while CocoCay (Little Stirrup Cay) belongs to Royal Caribbean.
Both offer white sand beaches, water sports, and private cabanas — but CocoCay is more geared toward families and thrill-seekers, with water parks and hot air balloons.
Great Stirrup Cay, on the other hand, feels quieter, more natural, and less crowded — perfect if you prefer a relaxed beach day.
18. There Are No Lockers for Valuables
There are no storage lockers available on the island, so plan ahead. Bring only what you need for the day, and leave your valuables safely in your cabin safe.
If you’re going on a water-based excursion, attendants might watch over your bag, but it’s always at your own risk.
My advice? Pack light: sunscreen, towel, cruise card, and maybe a waterproof pouch for your phone and credit card.
Final Thoughts
Great Stirrup Cay is one of those ports that really rewards planning ahead.
The day flies by, especially since tenders usually stop running around 3 p.m., so I always make sure to be among the first off the ship to enjoy the full day.
Even if you don’t spend a dime, there’s still plenty to enjoy: the beach, the BBQ lunch, and that unmistakable Bahamian sunshine.
Of course, if you want to splurge — on a cabana, a swim with pigs, or a Silver Cove villa — it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Either way, this is one stop that always reminds me how special it is to wake up and find paradise waiting just beyond your balcony.
