Norwegian Cruise Line has marked an important milestone at its private island destination after welcoming the first cruise ship to dock at a newly built pier at Great Stirrup Cay. The honour went to the Norwegian Getaway, which arrived at the island during a short Bahamas sailing.
For years, ships visiting Great Stirrup Cay relied on tender boats to transport guests ashore. The opening of the new pier signals a major shift in how passengers experience the destination.
Guests onboard Norwegian Getaway were informed of the achievement through the ship’s daily activity schedule. Norwegian described the call as a historic moment for both the ship and the company.
The cruise line noted that everyone onboard was part of a first, becoming the earliest guests to walk directly from the ship onto the island. For many passengers, the experience marked a smoother and more relaxed start to their beach day.
Ending the Need for Tendering
Norwegian said the new multi-berth pier is part of a broader investment aimed at improving guest comfort. With the pier now open, visitors no longer need to rely on tender boats to reach shore.
The company added that the new infrastructure will benefit ships across its brands. Future visits from Norwegian, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises will all use the pier.
The Norwegian Getaway visited Great Stirrup Cay as part of a three-night cruise sailing roundtrip from PortMiami. The private island was the only port of call on the itinerary.
The sailing also included a full day at sea before returning to Florida. The short voyage allowed guests to fully focus on the island experience.
More Enhancements Coming to Great Stirrup Cay
The new pier is just one element of a larger upgrade project underway on the island.
Norwegian is also developing new attractions designed to expand what guests can do ashore.
A major highlight is the upcoming Great Tides water park, scheduled to open in 2026.
The nearly six-acre park will feature 19 waterslides, a long, dynamic river and multiple water play areas.
With direct docking now available and more attractions on the way, Great Stirrup Cay is entering a new chapter. The upgrades reflect Norwegian’s broader push to enhance private island experiences across its fleet
