Norwegian Cruise Line Announces “Great Tides Waterpark”

(eap) Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced details of an expansion to its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas archipelago, which will include a completely redesigned water park. Scheduled to open in summer 2026, the new “Great Tides Waterpark” is set to span a site of approximately 2.5 hectares and to feature a total of 19 water slides. Its central highlight will be the 52-meter-tall “Tidal Tower”, which is expected to offer eight different slides for thrill-seekers – including tube slides, racing slides, and classic body slides. The attractions will be supplied by Canadian manufacturer WhiteWater West.

© Image: Norwegian Cruise Line New experiences are also planned for families and younger guests: the water park will include, among other features, an 840-square-meter splash zone for children and a four-person family raft slide. The offering will be further enhanced by a 240-meter-long “Dynamic River” as well as a cliff jumping area with platforms at 3 and 4.5 meters high. Additionally, a mini racetrack for so-called “jetkarts” – a combination of go-kart and jet ski – is to be included.

Some new offerings and facilities are already set to open later this year on Great Stirrup Cay. These include a heated swimming pool, a new pier capable of accommodating multiple ships, the Welcome Plaza, and an island tram service. Due to the extensive redevelopment of the private island and what NCL describes as increasing demand for cruises to the Caribbean – especially to the Bahamas – the cruise company plans to bring around one million guests on 15 ships to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026. ■