The Premier Cabanas are located on Cabana Beach, right next to the Main Beach. 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. Offer is not applicable on Harvest Caye, nor sailings that are two (2) days or less. Room service is included if youd prefer to dine in the villa. 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. 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. Is Great Stirrup Cay an island designated to NCL? This helps them stand out from the rest of the island. 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. 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. This 1 hour course includes a series of six ziplines, net bridges, and other challenge obstacles. To make your experience even more serene, book one of the small or large beachside cabanas, stocked with plenty of extras to make it a worthwhile splurge. You can rent snorkel equipment for the day ($37/adult, $22/child) but we prefer to pack our own full-face snorkel masks. It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. Was looking though and wondering if the studio villa would be better. That said, depending on when you go you may not want to swim much. There are also shuttles that will take you right to Silver Cove and back. 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. NCL used to offer tram service for transporting cruisers from the tender point to their cabanas, but currently it is not offering that service. The warmest months are July and August, where highs average 91F (33C). If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again. Winds were too calm, so they were forced to stop at the nearest island, Great Stirrup Cay. 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. There is a bar close to the cabanas, so you are never too far away to quench your thirst with chilled island drinks. Beach wheelchairs are available on Great Stirrup Cay, free of charge. The menus include ceviche, pulled pork sandwiches, spicy chicken sandwiches and more. I noticed people kayaking there, but that was an excursion. The island zipline adventure is a brand new shore excursion offered on Great Stirrup Cay. 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. It has barbecue food, salads, ribs, chicken and corn-on-the-cob. With any villa rental, youll also have access to the exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar, the Mot Bar, as well as the private beach at Silver Cove Lagoon (with its new overwater swings). If you want an exclusive hangout with even more amenities, youll want to reserve one of the Silver Cove villas. If youve been cruise shopping, then youve likely seen ads for Royal Caribbeans CocoCay. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the island. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. Having it work on Great Stirrup Cay means you are better able to get your moneys worth. Does not include: Room service, mini bar purchases, vending machines; Guest's check may reflect applicable VAT and/or taxes for certain ports or itineraries. Even the people working at the straw market dont live herethey take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay. Even our most recent cruise this fall to Disneys Castaway Cay left us a bit disappointed by comparison. After a brief orientation your guide will help you into a 2-person kayak. Dont forget to check out these resources before your Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line: Have you visited Great Stirrup Cay on a Norwegian cruise? Book snorkel equipment from Susans Rock Snorkel Center for the day ($30 for adults and $15 for children) and snorkel at this beautiful spot as much as you want. 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. If you get the Internet package on the ship, unfortunately it wont extend to the island. When you leave the ship you will scan your card so that crew knows who is on and off the ship. Thanks in advance for any ideas/guidance! Lounge on the sparkling beaches or go for a walk and wade into the warm turquoise sea. Did you notice if they made folks who brought their own snorkel gear rent a vest? So there you have it! Hugely disappointed with this line. ), Pam, I completely agree. However, part of NCLs improvement plan for the future includes a swimming pool complex and water features including a lazy river. Everything you could need is offered right here and the only people on the island are Norwegian passengers. Whether you love social media of just want a nice snapshot, there are a ton of photo opportunities around Great Stirrup Cay. Even walking among the palm trees and the vegetation of the Great Stirrup Cay is a fun and interesting experience. One exception is transportation to Silver Cove, since its a bit of a hike from where youll exit your tender. 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. If its been a few years since youve visited the private island, youll be amazed at how much its changed while still retaining its charm. In short, if youve ever wanted to visit a picturesque private island without having to pay a fortune, this is it. Located by the Silver Cove lagoon, these villas have two bedrooms flanking a central indoor living space. 9. And theyre usually a lot less crowded! Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. Everything we know so far about NCLs newest ship: Norwegian Viva. Its no wonder the cruise port has so many fun activities to engage in! Umbrellas can be rented. Enjoy a hearty serving of tasty food including burgers, pizza, hot dogs and grilled chicken or steak. GitHub export from English Wikipedia. If youre not sure exactly where to go, just ask the staff at Susans Rock Snorkel Center. All excursions are booked through NCL. It is a series of three flights starting 130 feet above ground from a replica lighthouse (not the historic real lighthouse on the island!) Hi Ronald, if you're on the fence about cabana vs. villa (and don't mind spending a bit more), I'd say go with the villa. Best of all, they are free. The guide will identify the marine life and tell you a bit about the island. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Pick them up at Mat and Float Rentals, across from Bertrams Cove Beach. A visit to the Bahamas is never complete without a souvenir. When I was researching the little cemetery, I learned that when Elizabeth's husband buried her on the island he met two men of African descent, assumed to be former slaves, living on the island. Find a Cruise. Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? 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. My husband and I are snorkelers. Since its so easily accessible, its always the most crowded beach as well. Happy Cruising!! If youd like to buy drinks, you use your cruise card to make your purchases just as you do on the ship. 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. One of the most popular are the over-the-water swings. Beach wheelchairs with massive inflatable tires are available for you to use for free. Didnt notice. Animals: Variety of lizards, land crabs, iguanas,. Check out the latest web stories from Should Be Cruising! A Premier Cabana is priced from $449. Hope to visit it one day. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 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. The days soundtrack is provided by DJs and live bands at the Bacardi Bar or the bandstand. Didn't book early enough? There are a few sets around the island and you can get a pic with your toes dangling in the water. On Great Stirrup Cay, the equivalent is the Silver Cove area of the island. 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. Still, you can go out and be away from other people. They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, Great Stirrup Cay is a 268-acre private cruise island in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Apart from those two items, you dont NEED to bring anything. Copyright Cruise Blog Media LLC 2023. Chairs are free. Most of this has to do with supply and demand. This includes beers, wines, cocktails, and sodas plus juices. You will have to bring your room card and photo ID. Paolo, I hope you're able to visit GSC - it's so nice to just relax there and enjoy the beautiful scenery. When we visited in late November and found the water cool. Take a Catamaran and Snorkel Tour at Great Stirrup Cay, Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know, Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas for Cruise Visitors, https://www.cruisehive.com/author/gillian, UK Cruise Line to Remove Requirements on Sailings From May, Worlds Largest Cruise Ship Oversold for Spring Break, Carnival Cruise Ship Will Offer Transatlantic Voyage After Dry Dock. They are slightly larger than the Ocean Villas and are located on the lagoon. 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. Luxury cabana rentals are ideal for small groups and families of 8-10 guests. Walk all the way to the end of the beach area, and youll find Silver Cove. Package can be used in onboard restaurants, lounges, bars and Great Stirrup Cay. Im Carrie Ann, the writer behind Should Be Cruising. Thanks for stopping by! Ive never heard of this place before! Wander westward, and youll get to Cabana and Fiesta Beaches, which are flanked by rental cabanasand can be a bit quieter. Cabana rentals start at $249 for 8 guests with additional fees for more guests. If youre really looking to relax in comfort on your Great Stirrup Cay beach day, you can rent a private cabana or villa for the day. Cabana No. 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. Its also smart to bring a towel from the ship. Stand-up paddle boarding (or SUP) is a fun way to get out on the water, and its a great workout, too! Both beaches are available to the public and offer beach chairs closer to the water. There are so many things to do on Great Stirrup Cay, whether you want an active day or just some relaxation! Visiting the Key West Lighthouse and Museum. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. Since its an extension of Bertrams Beach, you can expect the same features and facilities. For something different, belly up to the Abaco Taco bar for Mexican food made to order. Whichever beach you find yourself at, you are sure to have fun soaking in the sun and playing in the water. Youll have to pay extra to do them, but the views you get are second-to-none. Bars on GSC that are open to all guests include the Patrn Bar, Bertrams Bar, Bacardi Bar, and the Lighthouse Beach Bar. Never been to Great Stirrup Cay. Finally, the Tropic Like Its Hot Food Truck has tasty Bahamian-style sandwiches including Mahi Mahi and BBQ pulled Pork as well as ceviche and spicy chicken. But of course, just like with bigger and better cruise ships, there is also competition among private islands. Even if youre not a dancer, its fun to watch the high-energy staff interact with guests (who may or may not have had a couple of rum cocktails). There are also electrical outlets for charging your electronics. About to head to Norwegian Cruise Lines Great Stirrup Cay? Unlike some other cruise line private islands, GSC doesnt have a regular shuttle or tram to transport guests around. Im so glad youre here! 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. On Great Stirrup Cay, the main bars include Bacardi Bar, Bertram's Bar and Patron Bar, specializing in various frozen beachy concoctions. 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. For the ultimate relaxation, the new Silver Cove area offers beautiful private two-storey villas and a private lagoon for an additional fee. 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. Any food or drinks (we have UBP)? 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. Grab a cold drink and enjoy your day, soaking in the sun in this beautiful place. Great Stirrup Cay is located in the BahamasBerry Islands chain. You cant miss itthe mats are a seriously bright shade of yellow! The main attraction at Great Stirrup Cay are three powder-soft white sandy beaches. 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. Tour guides provide a basic orientation on how to use your kayak. The waters around Great Stirrup Cay are crystal clear, and there are plenty of opportunities to snorkel right from the beach. A staunch advocate of cruising as an ideal family vacation, she has, on occasion, banned her own children from cruising with her. Below, we have outlined your possibilities for a day on this NCL private island: If youre looking for even more luxury, Great Stirrup Cays exclusive new Silver Cove area offers private villas for the day. The front of each structure is open to the outside, but you can draw the curtains for privacy. You get the chance to feed and interact with these porkers and have a photo op before relaxing with a drink on the observation deck and watching the fun. 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. until the early 19th century. NCL, like many other cruise lines, reserves the right to deny boarding of their tenders to guests who cant enter or exit the boat on foot. Or take a turn parasailing high above the islands shores. (which we all need to do more! 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. Norwegians sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas, also offer occasional itineraries that include a day at Great Stirrup Cay. You'll be close to the lagoon area, a part of the island currently under construction. Where is Great Stirrup Cay Located?