Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas-Norwegian Cruise Line’s Private Island Paradise

When it comes to ports of call on a Caribbean cruise it’s hard to beat a palm fringed island with white sand beaches and turquoise water. The folks at Norwegian Cruise Line couldn’t agree more so they developed Great Stirrup Cay, located in the Berry Islands of the Bahamas, to create their own private island getaway. Great Stirrup Cay is only available to guests cruising with Norwegian and if you’ve booked a Caribbean cruise that’s stopping at Great Stirrup Cay you may be wondering the best way to spend your day in paradise. Let’s take a look at the best things to do on Great Stirrup Cay.

The Casual Travelist contains affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you. I was graciously hosted by Norwegian Cruise Lines but as always all opinions remain my own.

Beaches on Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay has over 10 acres of beaches and lounge chairs are on a first come basis so its best to get to the island early to nab a spot. Bertram’s Beach is the closest to the entrance and is usually the most crowded, head further down the shore for fewer crowds.

Restaurants and Bars at Great Stirrup Cay

Abaco Taco

This relaxed beach stand serves up a variety of delicious tacos (including beef, chicken, seafood and veggie options) with all the fixin’s to customize your favorite taco.

Tropic Like It’s Hot

This food truck offers up island bites like ceviche and sandwiches.

Jumbey Beach Grill

Jumbey Beach Grill is the main restaurant on the island and serves up bbq, burgers and hot dogs buffet style.

Bacardi Bar

The Bacardi Bar serves a perfect mojito featuring Bacardi rum as well as a DJ spinning island tunes.

Patron Bar

Prefer margaritas? Head to the Patron Bar for some of the best in the Caribbean.

Bertram’s Bar

Check out Bertram’s Bar serving up everything from rum runners to daquairis.

Excursions and Activities on Great Stirrup Cay

Zipline Above the Trees

This adventurous course is a series of six ziplines along with net bridges, platforms and other obstacles. Starting at a height of 110 feet you’ll soar at speeds of up to 30 mph with amazing island views.

Snorkel Through An Underwater Sculpture Garden

Don a mask and snorkel and swim around one-of-kind underwater sculptures teeming with tropical fish and marine life.

Get Up and Close With Stingrays

Take a quick speedboat ride over to Stingray City where you can get face to face with southern rays. Guides instruct you on how to feed and interact with the rays who are quite used to being around people.

Swim with the Pigs

The swimming pigs of the Bahamas are an Instagram favorite and NCL takes you on a scenic boat ride over to Treasure Island. After a safety brief and a history about the pigs you’ll have about 1.5 hours to interact with these adorable animals.

Water Sports

If you’re spending a day in the Caribbean you’ll naturally want to spend a day on the water. If you want a bit of adrenaline zip over the high seas on a waverunner or if you prefer a slower pace glide through the turquoise water in a kayak or on a stand up paddleboard.

Mandara Spa

If you are in need of some serious pampering then make sure to book some time at the Mandara Spa. This serene spa offers up blissful massages and treatments that leave you thoroughly relaxed.

Relax in a Cabana

Upgrade your beach day with a cabana rental. All cabanas feature comfortable lounge furniture, a small refrigerator, snacks and bottled water.

Ultimate Luxury at Silver Cove

If you want a more exclusive beach experience while on Great Stirrup Cay then make sure you book a villa at Silver Cove. Boasting one and two bedroom air conditioned retreats with a private beach, it’s own dedicated restaurant and a luxurious beach side Moet champagne bar.

Planning a Caribbean Cruise with Norwegian? Pin this post for later!