---

June 3, 2026

The grand opening of Norwegian Cruise Line’s brand-new Great Tides Waterpark is scheduled for September 4, 2026, during a seven-day Caribbean cruise aboard the Norwegian Luna.

The park is nearly complete and will be located on Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas.

Since early June, guests have already been able to purchase day passes for admission, allowing them to customize their day on the island and make the experience even more special. Guests will be able to reserve private cabanas for up to six people, with water park admission included. These cabanas will provide a peaceful oasis in the shade, just steps away from the Tidal Tower, the park’s signature attraction featuring thrilling waterslides—perfect for relaxing between adventures.

In addition, the water park experience is not limited to its 19 adrenaline-filled waterslides, but also includes three brand-new food trucks offering a wide and varied selection of dishes.

Marc Kazlauskas, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, announced that Great Stirrup Cay continues to establish itself as the leading destination among the private islands in the Bahamas, and that they are excited to officially inaugurate the Great Tides Waterpark on September 4, 2026. The President also added that families and all types of travelers will be able to enjoy an unforgettable day, from thrilling waterslides to relaxing lagoon experiences on the most spectacular private island in the Caribbean.

Great Tides Waterpark spans nearly six acres with 19 waterslides and attractions suitable for all ages. At its center will rise the Tidal Tower (170 feet tall), featuring the Breakwater Blasters, the first water coaster with uphill and downhill drops aboard an inflatable raft. In addition, guests will find Whitewater Dash, with two waterslides, and Rapid Mat Racers (two racing mat slides). There will also be a selection of tube slides, Tropic Storm and Tropic Spiral, featuring twists and spirals for an extra adrenaline rush.

An adults-only area, the Vibe Shore Club, will also be available, while adventure lovers can let themselves drift along the Wandering River, an adrenaline-filled version of the classic lazy river stretching over 240 meters.

For families, Splash Harbor has been designed, featuring Splash Cay, an 836-square-meter play area for younger children, as well as the opportunity to explore the island easily thanks to a state-of-the-art tram system.

Among the main attractions are Cliffside Cove, home to the first and highest cliff jumps; The Great Slide, the only four-person waterslide in the Caribbean; the Fearless Falls racing slides; and the hidden Grotto Bar, located directly beneath the slides and offering a privileged viewing experience.

The water park is part of the wider transformation of Great Stirrup Cay, which also includes the Great Life Lagoon (a beach-entry pool), poolside bars, and spacious areas designed for relaxing with ocean views.

Great Stirrup Cay will be open year-round, with seasonal cruises departing from convenient ports such as New York and Philadelphia, as well as Florida ports including Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando (Port Canaveral), and Miami.

Specifically, to celebrate the opening of the water park, a seven-day cruise aboard the Norwegian Luna will depart from Miami on August 29, 2026. This itinerary will remain in place through November 2026 and will include visits to Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and Tortola, in addition to Great Stirrup Cay. The Norwegian Getaway, instead, will offer shorter cruises from Miami, with three- and four-night Bahamas sailings available through October 2026.

Don’t miss the latest news, updates, and reviews of Norwegian Cruise Line on Cruising Journal, featuring photos, videos, and special cruise offers.

Lucia Angeli

Comments