Norwegian's Great Tides Waterpark Opens in 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line has officially unveiled its new Great Tides Waterpark at its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas. The nearly 6-acre park will officially open to cruise guests on September 4, 2026, when the Norwegian Luna visits the island.

A ceremonial ribbon-cutting and exclusive preview event were held to mark the completion of the waterpark. The event was attended by cruise line officials, Bahamian government representatives, travel partners, media personnel, and influencers who arrived on the Norwegian Getaway. Following speeches, guests explored the completed park and enjoyed curated experiences including photo opportunities, special cocktails, food and beverage tastings, and a Junkanoo performance showcasing Bahamian culture.

Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said the waterpark represents an exciting new chapter for the island and a defining moment for the company. According to a report from Cruise Hive, access to the waterpark requires a separately purchased day pass, with prices varying by sailing depending on date, popularity, and other factors.

Attractions at the New Waterpark

The park's centerpiece is the 170-foot Tidal Tower, which houses eight different waterslides. In total, the facility features 19 waterslides across several distinct areas.

Other major attractions include Cliffside Cove, which offers 10-foot and 15-foot cliff jumps, and the over 800-foot-long Wandering River. A dedicated children's area called Splash Cay provides kid-friendly activities.

Guests have access to complimentary lounge chairs and shade umbrellas, with private cabanas available for rental. Dining and drink options are spread throughout the park, including the Floataway swim-up bar and three food trucks.

Opening Timeline and Island Upgrades

The project was first announced by Norwegian Cruise Line in July 2025 as part of a broader transformation of Great Stirrup Cay. Cruise Hive visited the island during this overhaul in March 2026, and the cruise line confirmed the September 2026 opening date that May. A detailed first look at all attractions was provided in August 2026.

Impact and Guest Experience

Great Tides Waterpark is not the only recent upgrade. Norwegian Cruise Line has also constructed a new dual-berth pier at the island. This allows guests to walk directly ashore from their ships instead of relying on tender boats. Together, the new pier and the waterpark mark two of the most significant additions to the private destination.

The first regular guests will arrive aboard the 3,565-passenger Norwegian Luna. That ship, which debuted earlier this year, departed Miami on August 29, 2026, for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage and is scheduled to dock at Great Stirrup Cay at 10:00 a.m. on September 4.