great stirrup cay what is included

You wont find splash pads, playgrounds, kid pools, or water slides. I love the idea of a private island. This lighthouse was originally constructed in 1863 by theBritish Imperial Lighthouse Service. Theres plenty to eat on Great Stirrup Cay, so you dont really need to bring snacks. It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. This idyllic island is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line and was the first uninhabited island ever to be turned into a private cruise port. This is always the case at Great Stirrup Cay, which features a Red Carpet area to the left of the main gathering area at the tender docks. Each group of cabanas is located close to small beaches that are often far less crowded than the main beach. 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. Great Stirrup Cay, cruises to Bahamas | MSC Cruises And the free food definitely caught my attention. 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. 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). Since the island is uninhabited, your only options for shore excursions are those you book through the cruise line. If you have a shore excursion that departs from the dock on the south side of the island, shuttles will take you to and from that location. One of the most popular are the over-the-water swings. Great Stirrup Cay Mortgage Central Bank Approval definition British educated with a diploma in journalism she has traveled the world, writing about her experiences with wonderful clarity and eyewitness detail. The reviews of CocoCay have been phenomenal from visitors, including us. On the flip side, staying on the ship during a port day at Great Stirrup Cay can be incredibly fun. During our visit we were given a tour and told that there were bigger plans in the works for Great Stirrup Cay. Are there an abundance of beach chairs and umbrellas to rent? Treatment rooms open onto the lagoon, so the island breezes can waft in while you zone out. Guests who sign up for a spa treatment have an added perkaccess to the private lagoon and Silver Coves restaurant and bars, normally reserved for those renting a villa. You will have a brief safety instruction session before going into the shallow waters within a cove. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. All excursions are booked through NCL. On most ports of call the drink package does not work when off the ship. Catching up with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection - What's it Like On Board Evrima? The Ocean Villas are adjacent to the cabana area and front Fiesta Beach, not the Silver Cove Lagoon. We actually just booked a cruise with NCL with a stop in GSC. Even our most recent cruise this fall to Disneys Castaway Cay left us a bit disappointed by comparison. Each cabana now has. These villas offers the same amenities as the one-bedroom versions. Room service is included if youd prefer to dine in the villa. During our visit, the lines were running constantly with people zooming back and forth. Your ships signal doesnt reach the island. They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars. 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. Average Temp: 75 degrees Fahrenheit Vegetation: Coconut Palm; Sea Grape, and the beautiful Bougainvillea are among the abundant regional foliage. By that time, many (if not all) of the restaurants and bars on the island will be closed. Beach access is free, and complimentary loungers are available. Although it was manned for many years, it's currently timed and solar-powered. Lagoon Two-Bedroom Villas start at $1,100 and accommodate 16 guests, with up to four additional guests charged at $49 each. Thankfully, most of the action on the island is centrally located by the main beach at Bertrams Cove. Bring cash (US dollars) as many local traders do not accept credit cards or stateroom passes. The ride takes about 10 minutes to get between the island and where the ship is anchored offshore. Youll be able to reach speeds of up to 30 mph (48 kph) while enjoying a birds-eye view of the island and the sparkling waters surrounding it. Norwegian's island sits in a chain of islands called the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. If you have your heart set on a day on this private island, you might want to consider booking your cruise outside of this season. To get to the lighthouse, walk back and to the left of the tenders and look for the Lighthouse Trail. I noticed people kayaking there, but that was an excursion. 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. That said, depending on when you go you may not want to swim much. Grab a cold drink and enjoy your day, soaking in the sun in this beautiful place. Only one person from your party should make the reservation. Top Hotels in Great Stirrup Cay from $220 - Expedia Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? This is for laid-back folks looking for a relaxing tour around the beautiful island waters of the Berry Islands aboard a modern double-decker catamaran. CocoCay Bahamas Weather. For even more beach bliss, book a massage or other spa treatment at the Mandara Spa at Silver Cove. Check out the new Silver Cove (more on this below). That reduces the waves and the choppy water and makes things perfect for playing in the water, even for small kids. Youll be able to fit a cell phone, cash, and your license inside while you enjoy the water. (which we all need to do more! Step up and get a dog as a snack to hold you over, or as your meal. 12 things that are guaranteed to help you enjoy your day at Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas. It is located between Great Harbour Cay and Little Stirrup Cay (now renamed CocoCay at Perfect Cay) about 140 miles east of Miami. Youll need to pick up a complimentary ticket with a specific time to board the tender, or you can wait until Open Tender is called. 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. Thats a day where you dont get the full potential of the package despite having to pay for the service. 5 big changes you should know about coming to Norwegian Cruise Line in 2023, Comparing Norwegian Cruise Line sailings to Alaska in 2023, 17 kinds of cruises you didnt know Norwegian Cruise Lines offered. Be warned that on NCL ships, Open Tender generally doesnt start until the afternoon. Norwegian has a small staff that stays on the island, but there are no permanent residents. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the island. (See our suggest cruise packing items here.) You can make your reservation online, booking it as a shore excursion. For the ultimate relaxation, the new Silver Cove area offers beautiful private two-storey villas and a private lagoon for an additional fee. 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. Its a great way to start your visit to Great Stirrup Cay so get a pre-booked timed ticket to board or just wait for Open Tender when you can just turn up and hop aboard! Any details would be appreciated. The sculpture garden is located just in front of the large rock formations youll notice rising out of the water. The second zip-line is 600 feet long, starting 100 feet above the ground. The islands are about 140 miles east of Miami, making it a close port of call for cruises departing the Florida port. After a brief orientation your guide will help you into a 2-person kayak. These are only accessible to Villa guests and those booking a treatment at the Mandara Spa. The largest and most popular dining venue is the Jumbey Beach Grill, an open-air buffet venue serving grilled burgers and chicken and sides like corn on the cob, salad, fruit, and dessert. There are also shuttles that will take you right to Silver Cove and back. 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. Inside the exclusive (and expensive) new beach retreat on this cruise Bertrams Beach is the main beach where tenders arrive and depart. Everything to Know About Norwegians Free At Sea Sale, What to Do on a Cruise? Costs are from US$60-85 depending on the number of rides and which zip-lines you choose. Because flexibility matters. 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. The more adventurous can try out parasailing, hit the water on a WaveRunner, or . There were two early-nineteenth-century burials on the island, and you can visit the tiny cemetery with their memorials. Great Stirrup Cay is not Coco Cay. Age and weight restrictions do apply, and cruisers need to wear closed-toe shoes to participate. 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. 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. Here there arent as many people, and its a bit slower paced. Im so glad youre here! This is entirely for the safety of guests as well as the safety of crew members who assist people entering and exiting tenders. Apart from those two items, you dont NEED to bring anything. It's also about 60 miles north of Nassau. Its simply a larger version of the Classic Cabana, accommodating eight guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $25 each. 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. Entertainment on the private island focuses on music and dancing, centered around the bars and the bandstand. So what can you expect from your visit? A shopping area and child areas, as well as restricted-access beaches are also included in your Caribbean holiday in the Bahamas. The menu still revolves around salads, grilled fare, and tropical fruits and desserts, but the options are fancier than at Jumbey and the presentation more sophisticated. (Though why youd spend a day on a beautiful beach watching movies is beyond us!). The middle beach, known as Cabana Beach, has private cabanas for rent on a raised, hilly area on the beach. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, the 250-acre Great Stirrup Cay is an exclusive destination for NCL passengers. 17 Tips, Tricks and Things to Know About Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian's There, visitors can swim with the pigs and feed them, or watch them from the observation deck. Soar Across Great Stirrup Cay. Cruising The Haven & Suites: Perks and Details (Part 2) - NCL The Ultimate Guide To Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas In 2020 until the early 19th century. Keep this in mind when you ask crew members if you or your group member will be allowed to tender. Check onboard with the shore excursions desk to see if there are any cancellations. The tour takes around 2 hours and includes the chance to snorkel in the crystal clear waters and enjoy the stunning underwater corals and reefs. We saw a couple of hot dog carts roaming around the island during our stay. There are a few sets around the island and you can get a pic with your toes dangling in the water. Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale buffet with elevated choices such as grilled lobster tail and jumbo shrimp ceviche. The islands rental center can hook you up with snorkel gear to explore the underwater sculpture garden in Bertrams Cove off the main beach. Tour guides provide a basic orientation on how to use your kayak. The journey is about a mile each way, and you might even spot some local wildlife, including iguanas and hummingbirds on your walk. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Great Stirrup Cay. Didn't book early enough? Worth Reading: Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know. 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. In addition to upgrading and enhancing the experience at the dining venues, and improving walkways and landscaping, theyve also added more sports and adventure activities. Yes! If you have a beverage package onboard the ship, it is valid for use on the island. Inside, there's a ceiling fan, a cushioned sectional-style couch, a mini-refrigerator and a table. Norwegian Cruise Line uses very large tendering boats, and the trip only lasts 10 minutes long. All you have to do is look for the teal buildings. If you get the Internet package on the ship, unfortunately it wont extend to the island. I recommend taking an inexpensive waterproof pouch that you can hang around your neck. Check out beautiful paintings, wooden carvings, clothing, woven items, jewelry and sculptures to take home. There are no manmade swimming pools at Great Stirrup Cay. Additional water equipment beyond the floating mats (such as snorkeling masks or stand-up paddle-boards), as well as beach umbrellas or shaded clamshell-style beach loungers, must be rented for an additional charge. Definitely take some closed-toe walking shoes if you want to do this short hike. Cabanas have a front porch and include comfortable furnishings, side tables and bottled water. The main attraction at Great Stirrup Cay are three powder-soft white sandy beaches. Norwegian Expects 103% Occupancy Rate in 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line Gratuities (Tips): Full Guide to Cost & How They Work, Good Deal? This area is equivalent to The Haven on the ship. Souvenirs are available at the Berried Treasures Bazaar, a straw market run by local Bahamians. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. The best beach on Great Stirrup Cay will depend on your preferences because they're all beautiful. Is there a private or designated section for Haven passengers? The pigs arent on GSC itself, but on nearby Treasure Island. Catamaran & Snorkel ($79/$59 kids): A double-decker, covered snorkel boat will take you to a live coral reef where you can swim with native fish and marine life. Currently there is no pier or quay on Stirrup Cay so tenders (small motor boats) are used to transport cruisers ashore. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The tour offers both single as well as two-person wave runners. 12 Things to Do at Great Stirrup Cay 1. Ultimate Guide to Great Stirrup Cay (2023) - Should Be Cruising ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 20 Best Value Cruises to the Bahamas in January 2024 | GoToSea My husband and I are snorkelers. 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. Free expert cruise tips and news from Cruise Hive! The only people allowed on the island are Norwegian passengers and staff. You can also rent wave runners, standup paddleboards, and floating mats. Tender is just a fancy term for taking a smaller boat from a larger boat. Swim With the Pigs ($149/$109 kids): Yes, you can swim with pigs during your visit to Great Stirrup Cay! Peacefully glide along the coastline in a kayak, or soar high into the sky as you zipline across the island. 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. Theres plenty more to do on Great Stirrup Cay. Great Stirrup Cay - Ask a Cruise Question - Cruise Critic Community 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. Did you notice if they made folks who brought their own snorkel gear rent a vest? Thanks for stopping by! Once everyones back on board, enjoy a slow cruise back to Great Stirrup Cay while enjoying island music and light refreshments, snacks and alcoholic beverages. Traveling with a guest who has celiac and want to know what choices might be available that are safe to eat. Worth Reading: Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas for Cruise Visitors. Great Stirrup Cay. Get up to 35,000 rewards points when you book a Celebrity cruise from this new AmEx offer. Amenities are the same. 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. Age and weight restrictions apply to this tour, so read carefully before booking. Other bars in Great Stirrup Cay include the Lighthouse Bar and the Patrons Bar along with two private bars (Moet Bar and Silver Cove Bar) at the exclusive Silver Cove. There is a large cove where you can snorkel, but it may not be as secluded as you want. 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. Great Stirrup Cay. 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. Let me know in the comments below! Share They helped him find the spot next to Captain Bertrand's grave. On CocoCay, you'll find Captain Jack's, the Oasis. 12 Amazing Cruise Line Private Islands to Visit in 2023 and Beyond, 7 Best Beaches in Nassau Bahamas for Cruisers, Giada De Laurentiis Named Godmother of Oceania Cruises New Ship Vista, Norwegian Cruise Line Announces 2023 Meet the Winemaker Series, P&O Arvia Naming Ceremony Will Feature Olly Murs, Carnival Now Offering Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagars Santo Tequila Fleetwide, Princess Cruises Introduces Welcome Home Program, https://shouldbecruising.com/privacy-policy/, Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise, Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise, Great Stirrup Cay Two Bedroom Family Suite Villa (https://youtu.be/PUDp-RaXOO0), 25 Norwegian Cruise Tips You Need to Know, Norwegians Free at Sea: The Ultimate Guide, 2020 Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages, A photo ID (needs to be a valid drivers license if youre doing the wave runner tour), Tennis shoes for visiting the lighthouse or ziplining. Cabana No. Great Stirrup Cay | Norwegian Cruise Line - YouTube As part of their Norwegian Edge program, NCL has spent about $250 million renovating and improving Great Stirrup Cay. The island has several bars spread throughout the beach areas. Since its so easily accessible, its always the most crowded beach as well. On Great Stirrup Cay, the main bars include Bacardi Bar, Bertram's Bar and Patron Bar, specializing in various frozen beachy concoctions. The signal usually works on board the ship when its anchored offshore as well. 2023 Cruzely.com | Laisman Publishing, LLC, 20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know, Worth It? This video shows off the various. These beautifully designed cabanas feature a large L-shaped couch, a mini-fridge, ceiling fan, four lounge chairs on the porch area, four floating pads, fresh towel supply, snacks, a bowl of fresh fruit, dedicated waiter service, an extra $50 credit for food and a private shower on the back. 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. Offer is not applicable on Harvest Caye, nor sailings that are two (2) days or less.

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