Norwegian Cruise Line is making its Bahamian private island a bigger part of its Caribbean plans. After reworking its itineraries, the line now expects around 1.4 million guest visits to Great Stirrup Cay in 2027.
That's 200,000 more visits than its previous forecast of 1.2 million. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings chief executive John Chidsey gave the figures during the company's 29 October 2026 earnings call, linking the increase to changes in itinerary planning for 2027 and 2028.
Why so many more island visits?
Great Stirrup Cay has had a serious makeover. A new two-berth pier means ships can dock directly rather than relying entirely on tender boats, which are more vulnerable to choppy conditions. That's a big practical improvement if your favourite part of a private-island day is getting ashore early and making the most of it.
There's also Great Tides Waterpark, which opened on 4 September 2026. The nearly six-acre attraction adds waterslides and other family-focused activities to an island already known for beaches and a laid-back day in the sun. Norwegian says 90% of surveyed waterpark visitors would recommend it, although that is the company's own guest research.
Does this mean your itinerary will change?
Not necessarily. The 200,000 figure is a forecast of extra island visits, not 200,000 new cruise bookings or a confirmed list of altered sailings. Norwegian hasn't published a full breakdown of which departures have changed as a result of the planning work.
If you're booking a Bahamas or Caribbean cruise, check whether Great Stirrup Cay is actually on your chosen itinerary and how long the ship is scheduled to stay. The island itself is a cruise destination, but some attractions, including the waterpark, can involve an extra charge. Don't assume every activity is included in the fare.
A bigger role in Caribbean cruising
Norwegian clearly sees the island as more than an optional beach stop. With a pier, a large pool area and the new waterpark, it has a reason to send more ships there and make the destination part of the holiday's appeal.
Personally, I'd still choose a Caribbean cruise by looking at the whole itinerary. A private-island day can be brilliant, especially between busier ports, but I'd want a good mix of places to explore too. Our Caribbean cruise guide and Norwegian Cruise Line guide are useful starting points.
Sources: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' 29 October earnings call transcript, the company's quarterly results and Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay information.
What to check if your cruise calls at Great Stirrup Cay
Check whether your exact itinerary includes the island, how long the ship is scheduled to stay and which activities are included in your fare. Announced capacity growth is not a guarantee that an individual sailing will call there. Facilities, transport arrangements and availability can change, so confirm details with Norwegian Cruise Line before purchasing extras.
Great Stirrup Cay in 2024, before the announced 2027 programme. Photo: Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0.
