Last Updated on May 28, 2026 by Kimberly Stroh
Norwegian Cruise Line is making a major splash in 2026 with the official opening date announcement for its highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island destination in the Bahamas.
The nearly six-acre waterpark will officially open on Sept. 4, 2026, welcoming guests during Norwegian Luna’s seven-day Caribbean sailing departing from Miami. Guests sailing to Great Stirrup Cay on or after that date can now begin planning their island adventure as day passes officially go on sale beginning May 28.
A Massive New Waterpark Experience Is Coming to Great Stirrup Cay
Great Tides Waterpark is set to become one of the Caribbean’s biggest cruise line private island attractions, bringing family-friendly thrills and resort-style experiences to Great Stirrup Cay. As a mom of three, I’m excited that Norwegian Cruise Line is bringing waterpark experiences the whole family can enjoy together.
The new waterpark will feature:
- 19 waterslides
- A nearly 800-foot dynamic river experience
- A 170-foot Tidal Tower with eight slides
- Cliff jumps
- A 9,000-square-foot splash zone for kids
- Swim-up bars
- A new jet karts water track
- Family-friendly splash areas and relaxing lagoon spaces
Norwegian Cruise Line says the expansion is part of the continued transformation of Great Stirrup Cay into a premier private island destination in the Caribbean.
Day Passes and Private Cabanas Go on Sale
Beginning May 28, guests booked on sailings visiting Great Stirrup Cay on or after Sept. 4, 2026 can purchase day passes to Great Tides Waterpark in advance. Travelers can also reserve private cabanas that accommodate up to six guests and include waterpark admission.
The cabanas will offer shaded seating and convenient access to many of the park’s signature attractions, including the towering Tidal Tower slides.
Great Tides Waterpark is just one part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s broader upgrades to Great Stirrup Cay, which also include the recently added Great Life Lagoon, Splash Harbor splash pad, adults-only Vibe Shore Club, and expanded island transportation systems.
With high-thrill attractions, family splash zones, and new resort-style amenities, Great Tides Waterpark is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cruise destination openings of 2026.