Norwegian Cruise Line Reveals First Look at New Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay
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Norwegian Cruise Line has shared the first look at its long-awaited Great Tides Waterpark, an expansive new attraction opening September 4, 2026, on its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.
The nearly six-acre waterpark is the centerpiece of the island’s ongoing transformation and will introduce 19 waterslides, family play areas, unique dining venues, and several attractions that Norwegian says are firsts for both the cruise industry and the Caribbean.
The grand opening will take place during Norwegian Luna’s August 29, 2026 Caribbean sailing, giving those guests the opportunity to be among the first to experience the new attraction.
Thrills for Every Age
Great Tides Waterpark has been designed with a mix of high-energy attractions and family-friendly experiences, making it easy for everyone to spend the day together while still enjoying activities that match their interests.
One of the signature attractions will be The Wandering River, a lazy river with a twist. Instead of simply floating around the island, guests will drift through an immersive tunnel before continuing their relaxing journey.
Those looking for more excitement can head to The Great Slide, a four-person body slide unique to the Caribbean, or tackle Tidal Tower, where dual water coaster-style slides use powerful water jets to propel riders uphill before sending them through drops and twisting turns.
For true thrill seekers, Cliffside Cove introduces something completely different. Guests can leap from platforms 10 to 15 feet above the water, making it the cruise industry’s first cliff-jumping attraction and the tallest cliff jumps in the Caribbean.
Families with younger children won’t be left out. Splash Cay offers an interactive splash zone designed especially for kids with plenty of water features and room to play.
New Dining Around the Waterpark
The expansion isn’t limited to water attractions. Norwegian is also adding several new dining venues serving everything from barbecue and seafood to frozen desserts.
Low Tide Smoke will feature slow-smoked barbecue favorites including pork riblets, nachos, wings and other comfort foods.
Seafood lovers can stop by Catch of the Cay, where the menu includes fried shrimp baskets, shrimp rolls and chilled seafood served with seasoned waffle fries.
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For dessert, Tidal Treats will offer oversized sundaes served in bubble waffle bowls along with colorful fish-shaped waffle cones filled with soft-serve ice cream and a variety of flavored swirls.
Guests who prefer complimentary dining will still find buffet-style options available inside the waterpark.
Drinks Without Leaving the Water
Two new bars are also part of the expansion.
The Floataway Bar sits directly along The Wandering River, allowing guests to enjoy a drink without climbing out of the water. Meanwhile, the Grotto Bar, tucked beneath The Great Slide near the cliff-jumping area, offers a front-row view of some of the park’s most adventurous guests.
Passengers sailing with Norwegian’s unlimited beverage package can continue enjoying included beverages while visiting Great Stirrup Cay.
More Than Just a Waterpark
The opening of Great Tides Waterpark is only one part of Norwegian’s larger investment in Great Stirrup Cay.
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The island’s recently completed two-berth pier now allows ships to dock directly, eliminating the need for tender boats and giving guests more time to enjoy the island.
Visitors looking for a quieter experience can reserve beachfront or poolside cabanas, spend the day at the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, or retreat to Silver Cove, Norwegian’s premium oceanfront area featuring private villas, an infinity pool, restaurant, spa and exclusive beach access.
Opening This September
Great Tides Waterpark officially opens on September 4, 2026, with Norwegian Luna guests arriving during the August 29 sailing participating in the inaugural celebration.
Day passes for the waterpark are already available for sailings visiting Great Stirrup Cay beginning in September, and additional Caribbean itineraries featuring the island will continue throughout the year.
If the preview images are any indication, Great Tides Waterpark is shaping up to become one of the Caribbean’s most ambitious private island attractions, giving Norwegian guests even more reasons to spend the day ashore instead of heading back to the ship.
