Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesnt run the bazaar, you wont be able to use your cruise card here. Even our most recent cruise this fall to Disneys Castaway Cay left us a bit disappointed by comparison. Yes! It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. Are there places on the back side of the island that are an out of the way place for snorkeling? Enjoy a Boat Ride 2. Although these smaller beaches are generally where cabana guests go, theyre also open to anyone. Also Read: IDEAL Things to Do in Bimini, Bahamas. Big cabanas are well-suited to large groups or families traveling together. 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. There are some areas, but not sure if they are off-limits or not to just snorkel on your own. Norwegian Expects 103% Occupancy Rate in 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line Gratuities (Tips): Full Guide to Cost & How They Work, Good Deal? However, there are beautiful calms shallow waters right off the beach that provide a safe environment for swimming and snorkeling in the clear warm water. You can rent snorkel equipment for the day ($37/adult, $22/child) but we prefer to pack our own full-face snorkel masks. Ive never heard of this place before! Great Stirrup Cay is in the Bahamas archipelago. 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. Leased from Belcher Oil Company in 1977 and later purchased outright in 1986, Great Stirrup Cay is a private 268-acre island oasis. Tenders run continually throughout the day so you can come and go from the island whenever you want. The main beach area is the easternmost section of the islands developed area and closest to the tender pier. Visit the coral reefs of the Bahamas in this unique 90-minute cruise excursion swimming with pigs. Tender is just a fancy term for taking a smaller boat from a larger boat. It has barbecue food, salads, ribs, chicken and corn-on-the-cob. Thankfully restrooms arent hard to find on Great Stirrup Cay, as they are dotted around the island. On your return, snacks and complimentary adult beverages are available. Get ready to have a blast. This is beneficial, as there can be up to two ships that visit per day, which is common during the summer months. 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. Have your underwater camera ready to take water selfies with the shoals of fish that hang out at the garden You may also spot lobsters, crabs and shrimps, peering out from the holes and cracks in the statues. Visiting the Key West Lighthouse and Museum. There are so many things to do on Great Stirrup Cay, whether you want an active day or just some relaxation! During our visit, the lines were running constantly with people zooming back and forth. In 2015, commissioned by Norwegian Cruise Line for innovative work on their private island in Bahamas. 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. These include a snorkel excursion on a catamaran boat, zip lining, wave runner tours, a stingray encounter, and a guided kayak tour in two-person kayaks. U.S. dollars are accepted. 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. Youll want to bring all your beach day gear, including: Towels are provided on island, so you do not need to bring your own from the ship. Age and weight restrictions do apply, and cruisers need to wear closed-toe shoes to participate. 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. Try. 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. Dont worry, its not accessible to other cruise lines not owned by Norwegian! Bertrams Cove Beach, the main beach on the island, is the largest and closest to the tender dock. You should also get priority tendering with a villa, which is great when everyone's trying to get to the island - it can take hours to get all the passengers tendered over. Grab a cold drink and enjoy your day, soaking in the sun in this beautiful place. As a result, in 1863, the British Imperial Lighthouse Service erected the lighthouse on Great Stirrup Cay. There are also shuttles that will take you right to Silver Cove and back. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. Paolo, I hope you're able to visit GSC - it's so nice to just relax there and enjoy the beautiful scenery. (which we all need to do more! At that time, when youre ready to go to Great Stirrup Cay, just walk down to the gangway deck and climb aboard the tender. In 1979, Norwegian Cruise Line installed a stone marker and plaque on the location of his grave. Or take a turn parasailing high above the islands shores. Its neighbors with Royal Caribbeans private island, Perfect Day at Cococay you can see that island from your ship and the largest Berry Island, Great Harbour Cay. The colorful open-air market offers clothing and accessories, as well as a variety of local crafts. Never been to Great Stirrup Cay. Peak hurricane period in the Bahamas lasts from early August until late October. These grant you access to a private beach, bars, and restaurant, and come with fresh fruit, snacks, chilled drinks, and food and beverage service. My husband and I are snorkelers. The temperature averages a very pleasant 77F all year round. One exception is transportation to Silver Cove, since its a bit of a hike from where youll exit your tender. However, Norwegian is always updating the island and expanding its attractions, so perhaps a pool will make an appearance someday in the future. 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. It also comes with four floating mats and bottled water. These include: Great Stirrup Cay - Norwegian Cruise Line; Perfect Day at Cococay - RCI; Castaway Cay - Disney and RCI; Ocean Cay Marine Reserve - MSC; Labadee, Haiti - RCI; First and foremost, Great Stirrup Cay is a gem for its beaches. CocoCay is literally the next island over and you can see it right from the ship. On Great Stirrup Cay, the main bars include Bacardi Bar, Bertram's Bar and Patron Bar, specializing in various frozen beachy concoctions. Norwegian purchased the island outright in 1986. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',199,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4-0');You may notice some Royal Caribbean ships as you approach the island. January is the coldest month, with highs of 79F (26C). Nibble on fresh fruit and enjoy the soft ocean breezes from the plush sectional inside your very own private cabana on Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. The .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}cabanas are open-air style with an open wall facing the beach and windows on each side. Gillian Birch is a full-time travel writer and author of 12 travel books. GSC was a pirate hideout (!) You can pre-book this exciting experience from the Excursion Desk onboard the ship or at the islands Information Booth. Room service is included if youd prefer to dine in the villa. However, anyone can relax on the sand or use the free beach chairs available. A former flight attendant, she now prefers cruise ships over airplanes and spends several months each year cruising and exploring cruise ports. For even more beach bliss, book a massage or other spa treatment at the Mandara Spa at Silver Cove. In addition, your drinks package includes beverages purchased on the island (subject to the same limits and restrictions as onboard), so you dont need to shell out extra for a beer or cocktail on the beach. The climate in Great Stirrup Cay is rainy and more humid in the summer (May to October) with 3.5 inches of rainfall per month. We will also mention that Great Stirrup Cay didnt feel particularly accessible otherwise as there are lots of spots that require walking through sand. What is your opinion on the cabana vs villa? Today, Norwegian Cruise Line actually operates a couple, including Harvest Caye in the Caribbean and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Norwegians sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas, also offer occasional itineraries that include a day at Great Stirrup Cay. Hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, and jerk chicken are popular, along with pizza, salads, and corn-on-the-cob. Its a fantastic destination and port of call for lucky cruisers with NCL. 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. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the island. There, guests can interact with and feed tame stingrays in an enclosed area offshore. Tucked away at the northern end of the Berry Islands is Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. I was looking at some itineraries, and when do the ships stop there?? The middle beach, known as Cabana Beach, has private cabanas for rent on a raised, hilly area on the beach. A visit to the Bahamas is never complete without a souvenir. The shallow ocean waters are warmest in the summer season, with temperatures reaching up to 86F in August. When you leave the ship you will scan your card so that crew knows who is on and off the ship. Norwegian employs staff members that resides on the island to prepare for ship visits. Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas, offers gorgeous white sand beaches, water sports and activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars. Souvenirs are available at the Berried Treasures Bazaar, a straw market run by local Bahamians. Yes, since Great Stirrup Cay is run by the cruise line, almost everything is run just like on the cruise ship. We'll send you a weekly newsletter to your inbox. 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. Still, you can go out and be away from other people. CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. Great Stirrup Cay is an . Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. Come back to the earth and go on a speedboat ride zooming past the coastline to Stingray City. The only exception is that there is a small straw market of local vendors selling souvenirs. They are two different islands. Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise. 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. 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. If youre not sure exactly where to go, just ask the staff at Susans Rock Snorkel Center. It is a series of three flights starting 130 feet above ground from a replica lighthouse (not the historic real lighthouse on the island!) This 1 hour course includes a series of six ziplines, net bridges, and other challenge obstacles. Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. Copyright Cruise Blog Media LLC 2023. 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. These cabanas offer all the same amenities as the larger ones, just in a smaller format. Both beaches are available to the public and offer beach chairs closer to the water. If you dont mind being a little farther away from most amenities, keep walking and youll find Cabana Beach and then Fiesta Beach. You'll have a view here of the cove, since these cabanas are perched on top of a small hill. The coolest months are from December to February, with temperatures averaging 81-86F, occasionally dropping as low as 66F in a cold snap. The same $15 per drink limit applies. The great news is that you dont need to bring much to the island, but you do HAVE to bring a couple of things. You cant miss itthe mats are a seriously bright shade of yellow! Its simply a larger version of the Classic Cabana, accommodating eight guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $25 each. Villas also come with a full bathroom with shower and a private patio decked out with padded loungers. 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. Find out everything you need to know about Norwegian Cruise Line's private island Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas with things to do and tips. 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. Though both cabana types are situated at the farthest end of the island and face quieter beaches than the bustling main beach area, the smaller cabanas offer a slightly more laid-back experience. This reduces unnecessary delays. She was buried next to Captain Bertram. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. 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! You can pull the curtains closed for privacy. The cruise line might ask passengers to make a reservation for a tender if you want to go right when they start running. And unless you have premium tastes, your favorite liquors will be included. Worth Reading: Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know. Even the people working at the straw market dont live herethey take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay. However, part of NCLs improvement plan for the future includes a swimming pool complex and water features including a lazy river. However, you should bring anything you might want for a day at the beach, including things like your swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Is there a private or designated section for Haven passengers? Prices have been skyrocked. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas. Apart from those two items, you dont NEED to bring anything. Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas, offers gorgeous white sand beaches, water sports and activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. What Is a Cabana on a Cruise Ship or Private Island? On CocoCay, you'll find Captain Jack's, the Oasis. Abaco Taco is a fun taco bar where you can load up your own taco with fish, chicken beef and all the toppings. Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. And the free food definitely caught my attention. Great Stirrup Cay is not Coco 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. The beach is certainly family-friendly, and older kids can enjoy the various activities and shore excursions. Food on Great Stirrup Cay is complimentary and there are three dining options to choose from: Jumbo Beach Grill is the largest and most popular buffet venue. The ships dining venues are open while the ship is anchored off the island, so if youre highly allergic or concerned about dietary restrictions, youll have better luck eating on the ship. HomeBlogCruise Tips Cruise News Cruise DestinationsAboutContactResourcesFeatured PressPrivacy PolicyCookie PolicyDisclosure PolicyTerms of Use. 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. Early last year you could have enjoyed a Silver Cove Villa for less than half the price that you now see in 2023. If youve never seen it in person, you will from the cruise ship. A Classic Cabana is priced from $425 (all pricing is itinerary dependent) and accommodates up to six guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $25 each. Everything to Know About Norwegians Free At Sea Sale, What to Do on a Cruise? GitHub export from English Wikipedia. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Here there arent as many people, and its a bit slower paced. Choose a beef, chicken, or fish soft taco, and load it up! If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Norwegian's website currently offers 22 shore excursions to choose from, including cabana and equipment rentals. Theyve destroyed the beauty of the island and cheapened in with PAY for items they didnt have earlier.
