Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has reached a defining milestone in its private island evolution, as Norwegian Getaway became the first cruise ship to dock at the newly completed pier at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. The landmark arrival signals a major upgrade in the guest experience and underscores NCL’s long-term investment in transforming its private island into one of the Caribbean’s most accessible and immersive cruise destinations.
For years, Great Stirrup Cay—one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most popular ports of call—relied on tender boats to transport guests from ship to shore. While effective, the tendering process often introduced delays and logistical challenges, particularly during high-volume calls. The opening of the state-of-the-art pier eliminates this step, allowing guests to disembark directly onto the island for the first time.
A Historic First for Norwegian Getaway
Built in 2014, Norwegian Getaway etched its name into Norwegian Cruise Line history by becoming the inaugural vessel to use the new pier. Guests onboard were notified of the momentous occasion through the ship’s daily Freestyle Daily newsletter, which highlighted the significance of the call and framed the experience as a rare, once-in-a-lifetime event.
Marking the milestone, Norwegian Cruise Line stated that the docking represented a historic chapter not only for the ship, but for the cruise line as a whole—one in which every guest onboard became part of a defining moment. Passengers stepping ashore were the first cruise travellers to walk directly from a ship onto Great Stirrup Cay, setting the stage for a new era of seamless arrivals.
A Pier Designed for the Future
The newly completed pier has been engineered to accommodate multiple vessels simultaneously, enabling ships from Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet—as well as sister brands Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—to dock directly at the island. This infrastructure enhancement is central to NCL’s broader strategy of future-proofing Great Stirrup Cay as cruise itineraries grow in scale and frequency.
Beyond convenience, the pier significantly improves operational efficiency. By removing the need for tendering, guests gain quicker and more predictable access to the island, maximising time ashore and creating a smoother, more enjoyable start to the day.
Transforming the Guest Experience Onshore
The pier is only one component of a wider transformation underway at Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian Cruise Line is making substantial investments to elevate the island’s appeal across all traveller segments, from families and adventure seekers to guests seeking relaxation and premium leisure.
Among the most anticipated developments is the Great Tides Water Park, scheduled to open in 2026. Spanning nearly six acres, the park will feature 19 waterslides, a dynamic 800-foot river and a variety of interactive water attractions designed for guests of all ages. Once complete, it is expected to become a centrepiece of the island experience and a major draw for family cruising.
In addition, NCL is expanding dining venues, enhancing recreational offerings and introducing upgraded lounge and relaxation spaces. These additions aim to deliver a more diverse and refined island experience—balancing high-energy attractions with tranquil beachside escapes.
A Special Voyage with a Singular Port of Call
Norwegian Getaway’s historic docking took place during a three-night sailing from PortMiami, with Great Stirrup Cay serving as the itinerary’s sole port of call. The cruise also included a day at sea before returning to Florida, allowing guests ample time to enjoy both the onboard experience and the newly enhanced private island.
For passengers on this sailing, the visit carried added significance, offering the rare opportunity to experience Great Stirrup Cay at a pivotal moment in its evolution—before the arrival becomes routine for future voyages.
A Long-Term Commitment to Innovation
Norwegian Cruise Line’s continued investment in Great Stirrup Cay reflects a broader commitment to innovation and guest-centric design. By combining improved access, large-scale attractions and upgraded amenities, the cruise line is reinforcing the island’s status as a flagship private destination in the Caribbean.
With the new pier now operational and major developments on the horizon, Great Stirrup Cay is poised to enter its next chapter—one defined by convenience, variety and elevated experiences. For Norwegian Cruise Line and its guests, the milestone achieved by Norwegian Getaway is not just a historic first, but a clear signal of what lies ahead for private island cruising in the years to come.
