Although the station was manned for many years, the light is currently fully-automated and solar-powered. The island features a sweeping shoreline that features several different coves with white sand and gorgeous blue water. Early last year you could have enjoyed a Silver Cove Villa for less than half the price that you now see in 2023. Nibble on fresh fruit and enjoy the soft ocean breezes from the plush sectional inside your very own private cabana on Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Package can be used in onboard restaurants, lounges, bars and Great Stirrup Cay. Meals are cooked to order. The northern part of the island has a sandy beach surrounded by rocks with snorkeling areas. All of our Bahamas cruises feature a whole day visit to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic island paradise reserved only for our guests. You can go parasailing in tandem, sailing 400 feet high in the air above Stirrup Cay while being towed by a motor boat. Norwegian has a small staff that stays on the island, but there are no permanent residents. Unlike the cabanas, villas are fully enclosed, air-conditioned day rooms, with a sliding glass door to let in the breeze and a TV with complimentary on-demand movies. Tip: If your Bahamas cruise also stops in Freeport, I recommend the Swim With The Pigs excursion that NCL offers thereyou can take unlimited photos and video at no additional charge. Along with all the natural features there are $25 million of facilities and amenities that NCL has built on the island. Classic Cabanas are near Fiesta Beach, and Premier Cabanas are located close to Cabana Beach. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. Since this is a private cruise port, dont expect to go on excursions on your own, or to contract private tour operators, as there are none. Really interesting. For dessert, feast on rum cake and coconut fudge bars! Norwegian Cruise Line is the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its passengers. Its a fantastic destination and port of call for lucky cruisers with NCL. These include a snorkel excursion on a catamaran boat, zip lining, wave runner tours, a stingray encounter, and a guided kayak tour in two-person kayaks. It's included as a day stop on many Norwegian sailings in the region and gets occasional visits from Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises ships. Located by the Silver Cove lagoon, these villas have two bedrooms flanking a central indoor living space. It is home to a lush coconut plantation, an automated lighthouse (built-in 1863), white sandy beaches, crystal clear ocean waters, and a wide variety of marine life. You cant miss itthe mats are a seriously bright shade of yellow! There are a few sets around the island and you can get a pic with your toes dangling in the water. And unless you have premium tastes, your favorite liquors will be included. Great Stirrup Cay is an extension of the ship, so you can pay for drinks, tours, and rentals with your cruise card. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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 are bars near all three beaches including the Bacardi Bar and Patrons Bar. Finally, the Tropic Like Its Hot Food Truck has tasty Bahamian-style sandwiches including Mahi Mahi and BBQ pulled Pork as well as ceviche and spicy chicken. In short, if youve ever wanted to visit a picturesque private island without having to pay a fortune, this is it. As part of their Norwegian Edge program, NCL has spent about $250 million renovating and improving Great Stirrup Cay. The advantage of this location is your proximity to the main dining venue, Jumbey Beach Grill, as well as live music from the main stage. She uses her personal journals and memories to write about her many cruise experiences around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, trans-Atlantic, Norwegian Fjords, Panama Canal and South America including Cape Horn. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. The islands are about 140 miles east of Miami, making it a close port of call for cruises departing the Florida port. She was buried next to Captain Bertram. Snorkeling is a very popular activity for visitors to Great Stirrup Cay! There are very limited complimentary beverages available with meals: coffee and ice water. . You'll have your choice of 22 Cabanas on the Cay: 10 large cabanas situated on Cabana Beach, next to the main beach area, and which can fit up to eight people; and 12 small cabanas, accommodating up to six people each on Fiesta Beach. . Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line suites: What's included? You can enjoy some beach sports activities by engaging in a game of volleyball on the beach or listen to the DJ spinning some island music. 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. Great questions, Courtney! Those who have paid to enjoy the Silver Cove experience have their own exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar with an upscale buffet including lobster tail and jumbo shrimp. Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, What's Not Included With a Great Stirrup Cay Cabana Rental, How to Book a Cabana on Great Stirrup Cay, What to Expect on a Cruise: Drink Packages on Cruises, 11 Reasons to Take Your Family on a P&O Cruise, Half Moon Cay vs. CocoCay: What These Cruise Line Private Islands Offer Cruisers, Harvest Caye Cabanas: 8 Reasons They're Worth a Splurge. The Premier Cabanas are located on Cabana Beach, right next to the Main Beach. Enjoy a Boat Ride 2. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again. The ships dining venues are open while the ship is anchored off the island, so if youre highly allergic or concerned about dietary restrictions, youll have better luck eating on the ship. Abaco Taco is a fun taco bar where you can load up your own taco with fish, chicken beef and all the toppings. Note: There are also several shore excursions from 2022 that arent currently offered, but may return in 2023. Below, we have outlined your possibilities for a day on this NCL private island: On your return, snacks and complimentary adult beverages are available. Classic Cabanas are located on Fiesta Beach, closest to the Silver Cove villas. You can also visit a still-functional lighthouse dating to 1863 or look for locations for fun . There are also electrical outlets for charging your electronics. To get to the lighthouse, walk back and to the left of the tenders and look for the Lighthouse Trail. Norwegian employs staff members that resides on the island to prepare for ship visits. Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide, Everything about Norwegian Cruise Internet: Speed Test, Cost, and More, 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of), Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Secrets, Tricks, and Freebies, Full Ships! Why a cruise lanyard is the best travel accessory, Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise, Water shoes to protect your feet from rocks and coral, Book, magazine, music-playing device and headphones, or other entertainment, Sand toys, beach balls, and other beach-day sports gear. A visit to the Bahamas is never complete without a souvenir. Cabana No. Enjoy a hearty serving of tasty food including burgers, pizza, hot dogs and grilled chicken or steak. This idyllic island is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line and was the first uninhabited island ever to be turned into a private cruise port. On Norwegian cruise ships, guests looking for luxury have The Haven an exclusive part of the ship that separate from the rest of their guests. Pre-order a cheese board, sushi or tacos and find them waiting for you in the cabana. When the stingrays approach, you will have an opportunity to pet, feed and have a photo taken with these majestic creatures. If you're planning a sailing here and want to know more, then here are 16 useful things to know about the island. The improvements at Great Stirrup Cay also included the rebuilding of the island's 22 private cabanas, which are available for rent starting at $299 for a group of six. The island is a little unique in that you dont have a big pier (just yet) that the ship docks at to let passengers off. It's much more private and luxurious, and you'll have the added benefit of access to the Silver Cove amenities. Great Stirrup Cay was the first cruise line private island when it was acquired back in the 1970's, but it has come a long way since then. Yes, but only a little bit. The zip-lines provide birds eye views of the island and surrounding ocean so keep your eyes open if you dare! On Great Stirrup Cay youll have three options for ziplining: the Osprey Zipline, the Seahawk Zipline, or a combo package that lets you ride both. Beach access is free, and complimentary loungers are available. In addition, your drinks package includes beverages purchased on the island (subject to the same limits and restrictions as onboard), so you dont need to shell out extra for a beer or cocktail on the beach. Great Stirrup Cay is the northernmost island in the Berry Islands and is 250 acres of paradise. 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. Finally, if youve rented a Silver Cove villa for the day or have a spa treatment booked at the on-island Mandara Spa, you can enjoy a more upscale buffet experience at the Silver Cove Restaurant, located within the restricted-access area of the island. This reduces unnecessary delays. Have more questions about visiting Great Stirrup Cay? Looks like a wonderful place to relax, Yes, the food on Great Stirrup Cay is included with your cruise fare! The pigs are actually located on nearby Treasure Island, a 10-minute boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay. For more info, please read myDisclosure Policy. Copyright Cruise Blog Media LLC 2023. Yes! It is part of the Berry Islands, 140 miles east of Miami, Florida and between Great Harbour Cay and RCIs private CocoCay, formerly Little Stirrup Cay. While not many details were mentioned, the guide did mention plans for a pier so that passengers can come and go as they please, and it was also mentioned that Great Stirrup Cay is much larger than CocoCay, giving them more options. Average Temp: 75 degrees Fahrenheit Vegetation: Coconut Palm; Sea Grape, and the beautiful Bougainvillea are among the abundant regional foliage. Great Stirrup Cay | Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line 65.1K subscribers 58K views 1 year ago Welcome to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island paradise exclusive to. SUP is easy to learn, and the staff will give you pointers before sending you out to paddle around Bertrams Cove. Her articles have appeared on Cruise Critic, Porthole, TravelAge West, and USA Today. Cabanas have a front porch and include comfortable furnishings, side tables and bottled water. Norwegian Cruise Line purchased the island from the Belcher Oil Company in 1977 and developed it into a private island for their cruise ship passengers. Tip: If you dont want to spring for a clamshell, get to the island as early as possible. The island currently does not have have Wi-Fi, so it will definitely be a day to disconnect. Manage Settings Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise. Great Stirrup Cay: Everything you need to know about Norwegians private island. If youve been cruise shopping, then youve likely seen ads for Royal Caribbeans CocoCay. If you want an exclusive hangout with even more amenities, youll want to reserve one of the Silver Cove villas. Youre in for a pleasant surprise because Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island, is the ideal place foran idyllic beach getaway, with plenty to do and little hassle. Will keep an eye out next time! Unlike some other cruise line private islands, GSC doesnt have a regular shuttle or tram to transport guests around. And theyre usually a lot less crowded! There are no manmade swimming pools at Great Stirrup Cay. Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. (which we all need to do more! Much of the island is undeveloped, but Norwegian has carved out a beachy paradise on the northern shore, with plenty of fun-in-the-sun options for cruisers. Thankfully restrooms arent hard to find on Great Stirrup Cay, as they are dotted around the island. There are a number of things you can do. Having recently been to Coco Cay in 2019, and seeing what is on Great Stirrup Cay, I have no desire whatsoever to visit it at this point. Its the best chance to get that perfect photo in front of your ship. If you or one of your cruising group is unable to walk at all, tendering to the island might not be possible. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the island. My thoughts? There are also a number of covered areas with picnic tables for you to sit and eat. Only one person from your party should make the reservation. Yes, you can use your Norwegian drink package from the ship on Great Stirrup Cay. The new Silver Cove gated area is secluded at the far end of the cay, away from the main beach. The main attraction at Great Stirrup Cay are three powder-soft white sandy beaches. First and foremost, Great Stirrup Cay is a gem for its beaches. Treatment rooms open to the secluded beach on the north side of the lagoon. Get up to 35,000 rewards points when you book a Celebrity cruise from this new AmEx offer. You can pull the curtains closed for privacy. Hot Dog Cart: Want a snack? Rentals of beach gear and private cabanas are also handled by the shore excursions desk. Catching up with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection - What's it Like On Board Evrima? Let me know in the comments below! For a less busy beach, try secluded Fiesta Beach, which is the furthest from the pier with less noise and activity. Theres no service while youre on the beach so if you want to get in touch at home or post to social media about your day at the beach, youll need to wait until you go back aboard. What is Norwegian Cruise Lines largest ship? The only exception is that there is a small straw market of local vendors selling souvenirs. So what can you expect from your visit? It will list times and the location where you can pick up tender tickets. The pigs arent on GSC itself, but on nearby Treasure Island. Carry cash for the local market on the island; they dont take your ship stateroom card or credit card. Expect lively dancing from the ships entertainment staff, especially at the Bacardi Bar! These visits are part of longer Caribbean sailings or even around-the-world cruises. Still, you can go out and be away from other people. It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. This actually is a big benefit to buying the package for cruises that visit the island. Acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line in 1977, Great Stirrup Cay is located about 62 miles from Nassau, the Bahamian capital on the island of New Providence. These include: Great Stirrup Cay - Norwegian Cruise Line; Perfect Day at Cococay - RCI; Castaway Cay - Disney and RCI; Ocean Cay Marine Reserve - MSC; Labadee, Haiti - RCI; Youll be able to fit a cell phone, cash, and your license inside while you enjoy the water. Each group of cabanas is located close to small beaches that are often far less crowded than the main beach. Food Truck/Abaco Taco: There are two other spots on the island Abaco Taco (a build your own taco bar) and a food truck called Tropic Like Its Hot (pictured above) serving up some dishes that you wont find anywhere else on Great Stirrup Cay. Thankfully, most of the action on the island is centrally located by the main beach at Bertrams Cove. From a general overview of what to expect all the way down to nitty-gritty details, this guide to Great Stirrup Cay will make you a pro before you even set foot on its white sandy beaches. The middle beach, known as Cabana Beach, has private cabanas for rent on a raised, hilly area on the beach. This 90-minute guided tour will take you to the home of huge southern stingrays. Fun fact: The island used to be a pirate hideout; however, weve heard no rumors of buried treasure or pirates curses. One of the newest attractions at GSC is the ziplining course. Although it was manned for many years, it's currently timed and solar-powered. Tucked away at the northern end of the Berry Islands is Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Everything you could need is offered right here and the only people on the island are Norwegian passengers. However, if you want more space to stretch out and relax, the minimal upcharge to the larger cabana offers a great value. And if you'd like to be closer to the buffet, the large cabanas are best. Great Stirrup Cay is located in the BahamasBerry Islands chain. Walk all the way to the end of the beach area, and youll find Silver Cove. Wondering what more there is to do than hang out on the beach or zipline? For the most part any spending you do on the island can be done on your cruise room key, just like you were on the ship. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with exotic fish, or just stroll the white sand beaches. The ride takes about 10 minutes to get between the island and where the ship is anchored offshore. Your Great Stirrup Cay cabana will be stocked with towels, fresh fruit, chips and salsa, and bottled water, and you can order additional food and drinks to be delivered directly to your doorstep by a cabana attendant. Each cabana now has. The warmest months are from May to October, which typically enjoy highs of between 86F- 90F with gentle breezes. Worth Reading: Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know. Big cabanas are well-suited to large groups or families traveling together. By superdavexox, June 21, 2017 in Ask a Cruise Question. In fact, its very likely youll see a Royal Caribbean ship right next door when you visit Great Stirrup Cay. The menus include ceviche, pulled pork sandwiches, spicy chicken sandwiches and more. If a soothing spa treatment is more your style, be sure to book a facial or massage at Mandara Spa in Silver Cove. Worth Reading: Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas for Cruise Visitors. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Great Stirrup Cay. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. If you want to have smaller crowds, head down the beach some, following the path to the other coves. Search over 2.9 million properties and 550 airlines worldwide. Thats a day where you dont get the full potential of the package despite having to pay for the service. Here there arent as many people, and its a bit slower paced. Check them out: NCL went the extra mile and created a concrete underwater sculpture garden as part of their upgrades. were changing far more frequently. With all this information, you are all geared up for the best time possible at Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. This guided trip will start with a boat ride out to Treasure Island, where guests get a full safety briefing before entering the water. For the ultimate relaxation, the new Silver Cove area offers beautiful private two-storey villas and a private lagoon for an additional fee. Hugely disappointed with this line. Peak hurricane period in the Bahamas lasts from early August until late October. Its no wonder the cruise port has so many fun activities to engage in! It was still nice and warm to lay on the beach, but we didnt do much swimming. 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. Great Stirrup Cay is one of the ports of call on your Norwegian Cruise Line, but you can't find the island on a map. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. Much of the island is undeveloped, but Norwegian has carved out a beachy paradise on the northern shore, with plenty of fun-in-the-sun options for cruisers. Head to any bar on the island and you can get a drink just like you would on the ship. 12 things that are guaranteed to help you enjoy your day at Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas. Two lounge chairs with a beach umbrella will be reserved for you at the beach. It has barbecue food, salads, ribs, chicken and corn-on-the-cob. Are there an abundance of beach chairs and umbrellas to rent? However, I think that is for only guests renting the cabana. However, once it is open tender, you dont need a reservation. Lagoon Two-Bedroom Villas start at $1,100 and accommodate 16 guests, with up to four additional guests charged at $49 each. GSC doesnt offer WiFi, but there is a cell tower. The days soundtrack is provided by DJs and live bands at the Bacardi Bar or the bandstand. All three lines are owned by the . Whether you love social media of just want a nice snapshot, there are a ton of photo opportunities around Great Stirrup Cay. At about 2 long by a half-mile wide, its decently sized but only a portion of the island is developed for cruise passengers. Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. You wont have to deal with crowds, and it could be a perfect day of relaxation when the pool deck, restaurants, and bars are almost empty. Erica Silverstein is a cruise and family travel expert, who has been covering the industry for more than 15 years. If youre looking for some beachy thrills, sign up for a zip-line adventure. Its a great way to start your Great Stirrup Cay visit in style with a party mood. The best snorkeling spots in Bertrams Cove are easily accessible from the main beach. The ocean swing sets provide a fantastic photo-op if you've been waiting for that picture perfect moment to share on Instagram. 70 Fun Things to Do on the Ship, Norwegian Cruise Line Sharply Raises Service Charges Again (Up to 25%), 25+ Fun Must-Do Things on a Norwegian Cruise, 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 Youd Never Think Of), Carnival Is Fixing a MAJOR Issue With Sailing from Galveston, Princess Cruise Gratuity (Tips) Full Guide: How Much, How They Work, and More, Hotels With Cruise Shuttles For Every Major Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Tricks, Secrets, and Freebies, 39 Useful Things to Pack For Your Cruise (Including 17 Youd Never Think Of). (Though why youd spend a day on a beautiful beach watching movies is beyond us!). Explore Bahamas itineraries, find available cabins and book with GoToSea. Check onboard with the shore excursions desk to see if there are any cancellations. Below, weve included the listing of activities and rentals from a recent cruise, along with prices: We mentioned above that Great Stirrup Cay is right next to CocoCay. At a height of 110 feet, you can soar up to 30 miles per hour to gain a whole new perspective of this private island oasis. The great news is that you dont need to bring much to the island, but you do HAVE to bring a couple of things. Smaller boats, known as tenders, ferry passengers to and from the island. They overlook the Silver Cove Lagoon which has overwater swings, the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar and the Moet Champagne Bar. Enjoy the view of the islands coastline and the beautiful blue sea before the boat lands right on the beach where you can walk ashore. Visitors should note that current construction underway at the far end of the island near the lagoon is creating some noise and dust, so keep that in mind when selecting your cabana. Because flexibility matters. Its completely run by Norwegian Cruise Lines for the enjoyment of its guests. Villa guests also have access to complimentary floats and beach umbrellas. This helps them stand out from the rest of the island. Amenities are the same. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-leader-4','ezslot_17',606,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-leader-4-0');If youd prefer to relax ON the water, you can rent a floating mat for $16 a day. The climate in Great Stirrup Cay is rainy and more humid in the summer (May to October) with 3.5 inches of rainfall per month. Take a Catamaran and Snorkel Tour at Great Stirrup Cay, Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know, Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas for Cruise Visitors, https://www.cruisehive.com/author/gillian, UK Cruise Line to Remove Requirements on Sailings From May, Worlds Largest Cruise Ship Oversold for Spring Break, Carnival Cruise Ship Will Offer Transatlantic Voyage After Dry Dock. Wander westward, and youll get to Cabana and Fiesta Beaches, which are flanked by rental cabanasand can be a bit quieter. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_10',602,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');Food is complimentary on Great Stirrup Cay! She passed away during the journey, and her husband hoped to make it to Key West for burial. One thing thats great about Great Stirrup Cay is that the land forms coves around the swimming area. Or upgrade to a Premier Cabana with room for eight guests. And because of the island's shape, the shore is naturally protected, meaning that the water is almost always calm. This is entirely for the safety of guests as well as the safety of crew members who assist people entering and exiting tenders. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-leader-3','ezslot_16',605,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-leader-3-0');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. The temperature averages a very pleasant 77F all year round. So there you have it! Each fully-furnished villa features air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a patio. And lastly, remember to wear good water shoes. Its neighbors with Royal Caribbeans private island, Perfect Day at Cococay you can see that island from your ship and the largest Berry Island, Great Harbour Cay. These villas have a separate bedroom with king-size bed in addition to the living area, with a dining table on the patio. This gives you fantastic views of the ship up close from the water with no obstructed views. Your must-haves for Great Stirrup Cay are pretty basic: I also recommend a few extras to make your day on the island more fun and comfortable: Remember when youre packing your beach bag to double-check that youve packed everything youll need for the day. Yes, all of the food service on the private island is included in your cruise fare, so you can fill your tummy care free. One of the most popular are the over-the-water swings. Thanks in advance for any ideas/guidance! The first and largest cove is by far the most popular with people as its right by the landing for the tender boats. Currently, there are three dining options available to all guests on the island. This unforgettable stingray encounter will cost $69 for an adult and $49 for a child.. Take a 2 hour Kayaking Tour around Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Villas also come with a full bathroom with shower and a private patio decked out with padded loungers. On most ports of call the drink package does not work when off the ship. Prices start at $105 for adults and $85 for children aged 6 and above. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars. From a distance, the first thing you will notice on the island is the massive lighthouse that towers over everything. We actually just booked a cruise with NCL with a stop in GSC. Drinks are charged to your stateroom pass unless you have a drinks package in which case, just like onboard ship, your drinks are free. Today, Norwegian Cruise Line actually operates a couple, including Harvest Caye in the Caribbean and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.