Buffet: Starting at 11:30, there is a large buffet serving up a number of dishes, including burgers, dogs, pizza, salads, chicken, fruits, and a few other dishes. The zip-lines provide birds eye views of the island and surrounding ocean so keep your eyes open if you dare! However, once it is open tender, you dont need a reservation. Lounge on the sparkling beaches or go for a walk and wade into the warm turquoise sea. If you have an international plan on your phone, you should be able to access cellular data. 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. Its simply a larger version of the Classic Cabana, accommodating eight guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $25 each. The coolest months are from December to February, with temperatures averaging 81-86F, occasionally dropping as low as 66F in a cold snap. After a brief orientation your guide will help you into a 2-person kayak. A staunch advocate of cruising as an ideal family vacation, she has, on occasion, banned her own children from cruising with her. No, there is currently not a pool on Great Stirrup Cay, just sheltered swimming coves. The island has two courses featuring six zips and a ropes course of cargo nets, chimney climbs, and V net bridges. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. Here there arent as many people, and its a bit slower paced. Beach wheelchairs with massive inflatable tires are available for you to use for free. The final zip is 600 feet long and carries you from a height of 75 feet back to ground level. The days soundtrack is provided by DJs and live bands at the Bacardi Bar or the bandstand. 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. NCL appears to be going more for a "luxury resort feel" plus great beach options - when the additions of a pool and actual resort features plus the pier do (hopefully) materialize, it will be interesting to compare the two islands and their 180 degree different approach to private island excursions. Most hotels are fully refundable. Head to any bar on the island and you can get a drink just like you would on the ship. For something different, belly up to the Abaco Taco bar for Mexican food made to order. Swim With the Pigs ($149/$109 kids): Yes, you can swim with pigs during your visit to Great Stirrup Cay! Grab a cold drink and enjoy your day, soaking in the sun in this beautiful place. The second zip-line is 600 feet long, starting 100 feet above the ground. The Ocean Villas are adjacent to the cabana area and front Fiesta Beach, not the Silver Cove Lagoon. Still, you can go out and be away from other people. There are a number of sides available too, and the smell draws in a lot of folks to eat here. This 1 hour course includes a series of six ziplines, net bridges, and other challenge obstacles. The smaller-sized Cabanas on the Cay are located just west of their larger counterparts on Fiesta Beach, considered by some to be quieter and more laid-back than Cabana Beach, which is closer to the action and the crowds. This actually is a big benefit to buying the package for cruises that visit the island. Peacefully glide along the coastline in a kayak, or soar high into the sky as you zipline across the island. Or upgrade to a Premier Cabana with room for eight guests. Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesnt run the bazaar, you wont be able to use your cruise card here. You can rent clam shells or beach umbrellas for shade. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. The Premier Cabanas are located on Cabana Beach, right next to the Main Beach. Note that the operators of this shore excursion dont allow guests to take their own photos (but you can purchase pictures). This 250-acre island in the Bahamas was the first to be purchased by a cruise line ( Norwegian Cruise Line bought it in in 1977) and remains a private paradise. But the biggest price hikes have been with the luxury experiences in Silver Cove. Alternatively, head out to the rocks in the water for a climb and more sunbathing. Prices start from $599 to over $1100 for up to 8 guests (and $49 for each additional guest, up to 10 in total). Other activities to look forward to include renting a stand-up paddle-board at US$25 for an hour. Great Stirrup Cay is an . With your cabana reservation, your party will receive priority tender tickets, which allow you to disembark the ship quickly so that you can maximize your beach time. There are no manmade swimming pools at Great Stirrup Cay. Abaco Taco is a fun taco bar where you can load up your own taco with fish, chicken beef and all the toppings. She was buried next to Captain Bertram. Great Stirrup Cay, Your Own Private Island Set sail for the Bahamas and get ready for some fun in the sun! Should Be Cruising is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. There are some areas, but not sure if they are off-limits or not to just snorkel on your own. Whether you love social media of just want a nice snapshot, there are a ton of photo opportunities around Great Stirrup Cay. Ships planning to visit Great Stirrup Cay often will cancel during rough sea conditions because its a tender port. Norwegian Cruise Line Internet Packages and Prices, Club Orange, Holland America's Priority Program, 10 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Line Private Island, 6 Cruise Memories That Will Warm Your Heart, Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), Large Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), Private Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), P&O Cruises Reveals Nicole Sherzinger as Godmother of New Ship Arvia, Carnival Miracle Set to Become Fourth Carnival Ship to Sail From Galveston, Life at Sea Cruises Opens Sales for World's First Three-Year Cruise, Oceania Reveals Giada de Laurentiis as Godmother of New Ship Vista. 20 Best Value Cruises to the Bahamas in January 2024 | GoToSea The back story is that Great Stirrup Cay was bought from Belcher Oil Company in 1977 and was the first island ever to be transformed into a private island cruise port for a cruise line. Here is a complete map of the island, provided from NCL: Norwegians island sits in a chain of islands called the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. Behind the cabana, you'll find four floating mats for complimentary all-day use in the ocean and a private shower to rinse off, as well as your very own hammock. Umbrellas can be rented. So there you have it! Expect lively dancing from the ships entertainment staff, especially at the Bacardi Bar! Everything Great Stirrup Cay - Silver Cove (Villa's, Lagoon, Spa if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_21',609,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Island Zipline Adventure ($119/$85 kids) A combination of the Osprey Zipline plus the Seahawk Zipline for a total of six zips plus a series of V-net bridges, chimney climbs, and cargo nets. Youll also see local fish and plenty of colorful marine-life. Animals: Variety of lizards, land crabs, iguanas,. Bonus: Your spa appointment gets you access to the Silver Cove beach, restaurant, and bars, typically reserved for villa guests. Prices for this trip are US $65 for adults and $45 for children aged 8+. If you have a beverage package onboard the ship, it is valid for use on the island. The warmest months are from May to October, which typically enjoy highs of between 86F- 90F with gentle breezes. Great Stirrup Cay - NCL's Private Island in the Bahamas The shallow ocean waters are warmest in the summer season, with temperatures reaching up to 86F in August. If you or one of your cruising group is unable to walk at all, tendering to the island might not be possible. Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? The same $15 per drink limit applies. Best of all, they are free. Wondering what more there is to do than hang out on the beach or zipline? Head to the Stirrup Cay Marketplace and youll find a great choice of beachwear, Bahamian crafts and souvenirs. The sculpture garden is located just in front of the large rock formations youll notice rising out of the water. With the beach wheelchair, however, it should be much easier to navigate. This 90-minute guided tour will take you to the home of huge southern stingrays. Read on for more information about each cabana to help you choose the right one for your group. 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). However, if you want more space to stretch out and relax, the minimal upcharge to the larger cabana offers a great value. Currently, GSC doesnt have a swimming pool. Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide About to head to Norwegian Cruise Lines Great Stirrup Cay? They can still enjoy the rest of the ship but also have their own little spot. Its the best chance to get that perfect photo in front of your ship. Manage Settings Best Things to Do in Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 2020 - EatSleepCruise.com It was still nice and warm to lay on the beach, but we didnt do much swimming. The island has no pier, so you must take a tender boat from the ship to the island. The islands are about 140 miles east of Miami, making it a close port of call for cruises departing the Florida port. Ships sailing to the private island include: Ships from Norwegians sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, make the occasional stop at Great Stirrup Cay, as well. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. What is your opinion on the cabana vs villa? Villas also come with a full bathroom with shower and a private patio decked out with padded loungers. Does NCL own Great Stirrup Cay? 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. Were here to share some insider information about Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas including what you can expect from this port of call. January is the coldest month, with highs of 79F (26C). Additional food and drinks, beyond bottled water, fresh fruit and chips and salsa, will incur an extra charge, though you will receive a $50 credit to use toward beverages and food. For the ultimate in relaxation, the new luxury Silver Cove area features villas and a private lagoon. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The only exception is that there is a small straw market of local vendors selling souvenirs. The signal usually works on board the ship when its anchored offshore as well. Again, no specific details were mentioned, but it gave the impression that there could be some big changes to the island in the coming years. I love visiting the ports and spending long days exploring, but private islands are a nice break from the busier days. It's much more private and luxurious, and you'll have the added benefit of access to the Silver Cove amenities. However, anyone can relax on the sand or use the free beach chairs available. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. Great Stirrup Cay doesnt yet have a pier for ships to dock at, so your ship will anchor offshore. Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line suites: What's included? This includes beers, wines, cocktails, and sodas plus juices. Drink charges on Great Stirrup Cay work much as they do on board the ship. Most of Norwegians ships sail to Great Stirrup Cay at some point in their careers, usually as part of Bahamas or Caribbean cruises. A Premier Cabana is priced from $449. It is a series of three flights starting 130 feet above ground from a replica lighthouse (not the historic real lighthouse on the island!) Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise. (As with all Great Stirrup Cay visitors, you can help yourself to food from the island's complimentary buffet while it is running.) In short, if youve ever wanted to visit a picturesque private island without having to pay a fortune, this is it. Classic Cabanas are located on Fiesta Beach, closest to the Silver Cove villas. And theyre usually a lot less crowded! Get up to 35,000 rewards points when you book a Celebrity cruise from this new AmEx offer. When the stingrays approach, you will have an opportunity to pet, feed and have a photo taken with these majestic creatures. Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. Yes, all of the food service on the private island is included in your cruise fare, so you can fill your tummy care free. Wait times can be long at peak transit times, so plan accordingly (for example, if youre trying to get back on board for an afternoon spa treatment). HomeBlogCruise Tips Cruise News Cruise DestinationsAboutContactResourcesFeatured PressPrivacy PolicyCookie PolicyDisclosure PolicyTerms of Use. On the drinks end, there are five bars on the island, starting with the very energetic Bacardi Bar where you can hang out and listen to music as well as enjoy a drink. On the second flight, youll soar 850 feet out to the next landing, then 900 feet out to return to the starting point. 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. Elizabeth had been ill and hoped that the climate in Florida, where her brother lived, would help her condition. In 2015, commissioned by Norwegian Cruise Line for innovative work on their private island in Bahamas. If a soothing spa treatment is more your style, be sure to book a facial or massage at Mandara Spa in Silver Cove. Wander westward, and youll get to Cabana and Fiesta Beaches, which are flanked by rental cabanasand can be a bit quieter. Having food included is one of my favorite parts about cruising :D, Private islands are always the highlight of a cruise for me - they're just so relaxing and a reminder to take things a bit slower. The best beach on Great Stirrup Cay will depend on your preferences because they're all beautiful. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The best snorkeling spots in Bertrams Cove are easily accessible from the main beach. Tip: If youre thinking of visiting the Mot Bar in Silver Cove, consider upgrading your beverage package to the Premium Plus Beverage Package. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas. 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! At that time, when youre ready to go to Great Stirrup Cay, just walk down to the gangway deck and climb aboard the tender. ), Pam, I completely agree. 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. Treatment rooms open to the secluded beach on the north side of the lagoon. Erica Silverstein is a cruise and family travel expert, who has been covering the industry for more than 15 years. Unlike other private islands, Great Stirrup Cay does not have any kid play areas. There is a bar close to the cabanas, so you are never too far away to quench your thirst with chilled island drinks. Did you notice if they made folks who brought their own snorkel gear rent a vest? On most ports of call the drink package does not work when off the ship. Its also about 60 miles north of Nassau. Glide smoothly along the coastline enjoying the scenery and spotting fish and marine life beneath the water, while maintaining your balance on this fitness ride. We actually just booked a cruise with NCL with a stop in GSC. Im so glad youre here! You can rent an open-air cabana on the island, starting at $449 for a Classic Cabana that will accommodate six people. But of course, just like with bigger and better cruise ships, there is also competition among private islands. On shore youll find a wide range of activities, from ziplining to parasailing to snorkeling, along with beautiful sand, electric blue water, food, bars, and even villas (more details below). Prices are as of 2022, so expect about a 10-15% increase from last years pricing: Kayak Tour ($59/$39 kids): Away from the crowds, youll join a group to paddle your two-person kayak in the waters south of Great Stirrup Cay. NCL takes Great Stirrup Cay upscale at Silver Cove This applies even at Tender ports. As the busiest cruise season is from November through April, most cruises enjoy uninterrupted sunshine and very little rain. To access the spot you have to purchase a villa during your stay on the island (prices start around $500). A visit to the Bahamas is never complete without a souvenir. Write a Review; Boards; Log In Log Out; Deals. If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again. Pricing for most of their excursions falls within the range of $75-$140/adult and $55-$99/child. 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 guide will identify the marine life and tell you a bit about the island. Along with all the natural features there are $25 million of facilities and amenities that NCL has built on the island. This includes all bars, lounges, restaurants, and the brand's private island of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. 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. Carrie Ann is the founder of Should Be Cruising and a lifelong travel fanatic. As of 2023, there are 14 ships featuring itineraries that include Great Stirrup Cay: When I first published this post about Great Stirrup Cay in 2020 (yup, I actually cruised to GSC in mid-February 2020 right before the world shut down) I planned to update the info about Great Stirrup Cay I had gathered for my readers about once a year. Whichever beach you find yourself at, you are sure to have fun soaking in the sun and playing in the water. Happy Cruising!! Hot Dog Cart: Want a snack? One thing thats great about Great Stirrup Cay is that the land forms coves around the swimming area. Lagoon One-Bedroom Villas start at $899 and accommodate 10 guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $49 each. Tip: If you dont want to spring for a clamshell, get to the island as early as possible. If you want to pay for an excursion or get a drink at the bar, just hand over your card to pay. Drinks at this bar start at $25, so none are covered by the Premium Beverage Package. Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale buffet with elevated choices such as grilled lobster tail and jumbo shrimp ceviche. Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line's Private Island In The However, you cant pre-order a wheelchair, and the staff issues them on a first-come, first-served basis. Cabana No. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with exotic fish, or just stroll the white sand beaches. The waters around Great Stirrup Cay are crystal clear, and there are plenty of opportunities to snorkel right from the beach. Cabanas on the Cay book up fairly quickly, several months in advance of a cruise, so early booking is strongly recommended. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. For a more exclusive experience, Silver Cove offers private furnished villa rentals for 10 with one or 2 bedrooms and on-demand movies. RCL has hit a home run with Coco Cay, and while it may be smaller, it doesnt seem so, and it feels like it was laid out to perfection. Try. Life can be so hectic that it's important to take some time to just relax and enjoy :D, Learning that an island is owned by a Cruise line is surprising. And because of the island's shape, the shore is naturally protected, meaning that the water is almost always calm. Beach wheelchairs are available on Great Stirrup Cay, free of charge. Great Stirrup Cay is situated in the Bahamas and is included in a number of itineraries for Norwegian Cruise Line. 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! 30 Things to Know About Perfect Day at CocoCay Bahamas (2023) - Cruise Hive And unless you have premium tastes, your favorite liquors will be included. (There are public facilities within walking distance.) Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. Only one person from your party should make the reservation. Its an open-air shelter with comfortable indoor/outdoor seating and comes with four complimentary floating mats. One of the most popular are the over-the-water swings. Ziplining is a big draw and youll see the lines criss-crossing the entire island. Every major cruise line has (at least) one, and while each is different, they are all desirable places to spend a day.
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