great stirrup cay what is included

If you or one of your cruising group is unable to walk at all, tendering to the island might not be possible. Great Stirrup Cay is not Coco Cay. Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. Treatment rooms open onto the lagoon, so the island breezes can waft in while you zone out. The island has two courses featuring six zips and a ropes course of cargo nets, chimney climbs, and V net bridges. Paolo, I hope you're able to visit GSC - it's so nice to just relax there and enjoy the beautiful scenery. First things first an overview of exactly what Great Stirrup Cay is all about. However, anyone can relax on the sand or use the free beach chairs available. While tenders run back and forth all day, youll need to wait in line on either end for boats to arrive and disembark passengers before you can board. I was looking at some itineraries, and when do the ships stop there?? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_21',609,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Island Zipline Adventure ($119/$85 kids) A combination of the Osprey Zipline plus the Seahawk Zipline for a total of six zips plus a series of V-net bridges, chimney climbs, and cargo nets. The island has no pier, so you must take a tender boat from the ship to the island. However, once it is open tender, you dont need a reservation. Grill: Right near the buffet is a spot where staff cooks up jerk chicken and other goodies that you can get fresh off the grill. At the far end of the developed area is Silver Cove, a restricted-access area for those who rent the islands swanky villas. Or am I missing something? Here is a complete map of the island, provided from NCL: Norwegians island sits in a chain of islands called the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. If you want to be sure of the best spots in shady areas, you need to arrive early or rent a clamshell (around $30 per day) to keep out of the sun. All cabanas feature a sofa and several chairs, and a small patio. Gillian Birch is a full-time travel writer and author of 12 travel books. SUP is easy to learn, and the staff will give you pointers before sending you out to paddle around Bertrams Cove. Norwegian Cruise Line is the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its passengers. Also Read: IDEAL Things to Do in Bimini, Bahamas. Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas was the first private island to be purchased by a cruise line in the 1970's, however, it has come a long way in becoming a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the exclusivity of Norwegian cruise line passengers. Norwegian Expects 103% Occupancy Rate in 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line Gratuities (Tips): Full Guide to Cost & How They Work, Good Deal? Norwegian Cruise Line uses very large tendering boats, and the trip only lasts 10 minutes long. The first zip-line is 100 feet long, but its also the highest and scariest. My husband and I are snorkelers. From a general overview of what to expect all the way down to nitty-gritty details, this guide to Great Stirrup Cay will make you a pro before you even set foot on its white sandy beaches. Norwegian purchased the island outright in 1986. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',199,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4-0');You may notice some Royal Caribbean ships as you approach the island. Ships sailing to the private island include: Ships from Norwegians sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, make the occasional stop at Great Stirrup Cay, as well. This guided trip will start with a boat ride out to Treasure Island, where guests get a full safety briefing before entering the water. What did you think of the island? The nearly 80-foot (24 m) lighthouses beam is visible for over 20 miles! They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars. Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line and can only be visited as a port of call from a NCL cruise. I'd like to know more about life on the island for the employees who stay there, too! Will keep an eye out next time! The improvements at Great Stirrup Cay also included the rebuilding of the island's 22 private cabanas, which are available for rent starting at $299 for a group of six. Each group of cabanas is located close to small beaches that are often far less crowded than the main beach. Yes, since Great Stirrup Cay is run by the cruise line, almost everything is run just like on the cruise ship. On the flip side, staying on the ship during a port day at Great Stirrup Cay can be incredibly fun. The island has an exclusive area called Silver Cove, with cabanas for rent that has a bar, restaurant, and its own lagoon. Snorkeling equipment is also provided. It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. The Ocean Villas are adjacent to the cabana area and front Fiesta Beach, not the Silver Cove Lagoon. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Is Great Stirrup Cay an island designated to NCL? There are a number of things you can do. There are also electrical outlets for charging your electronics. Also, if you need a shower to wash off the sand and the salt, there are showers on the sides of the restrooms that are free to use. Head to the Stirrup Cay Marketplace and youll find a great choice of beachwear, Bahamian crafts and souvenirs. The pigs are actually located on nearby Treasure Island, a 10-minute boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay. You can rent clam shells or beach umbrellas for shade. Want to really get away from the crowds? Wander westward, and youll get to Cabana and Fiesta Beaches, which are flanked by rental cabanasand can be a bit quieter. The ships dining venues are open while the ship is anchored off the island, so if youre highly allergic or concerned about dietary restrictions, youll have better luck eating on the ship. Have more questions about visiting Great Stirrup Cay? Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. You can add up to two extra guests to either size cabana, with a $35 charge per person. Its a great way to start your visit to Great Stirrup Cay so get a pre-booked timed ticket to board or just wait for Open Tender when you can just turn up and hop aboard! Unlike other private islands, Great Stirrup Cay does not have any kid play areas. Great Stirrup Cay Great Stirrup Cay. Norwegian Cruise Line purchased the island from the Belcher Oil Company in 1977 and developed it into a private island for their cruise ship passengers. If youve never seen it in person, you will from the cruise ship. Yes, you can use your Norwegian drink package from the ship on Great Stirrup Cay. (As with all Great Stirrup Cay visitors, you can help yourself to food from the island's complimentary buffet while it is running.) The journey is about a mile each way, and you might even spot some local wildlife, including iguanas and hummingbirds on your walk. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. Age and weight restrictions do apply, and cruisers need to wear closed-toe shoes to participate. You will have a brief safety instruction session before going into the shallow waters within a cove. As the busiest cruise season is from November through April, most cruises enjoy uninterrupted sunshine and very little rain. The front of each structure is open to the outside, but you can draw the curtains for privacy. The warmest months are July and August, where highs average 91F (33C). As a result, in 1863, the British Imperial Lighthouse Service erected the lighthouse on Great Stirrup Cay. A former flight attendant, she now prefers cruise ships over airplanes and spends several months each year cruising and exploring cruise ports. Great questions, Courtney! Spa therapists will work their magic while you relax to the song of the oceans waves. Your Great Stirrup Cay cabana will be stocked with towels, fresh fruit, chips and salsa, and bottled water, and you can order additional food and drinks to be delivered directly to your doorstep by a cabana attendant. However, drink packages do not work at Harvest Caye, Belize. This includes all bars, lounges, restaurants, and the brand's private island of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. They can still enjoy the rest of the ship but also have their own little spot. If youre looking for even more luxury, Great Stirrup Cays exclusive new Silver Cove area offers private villas for the day. Instead, the ship docks offshore and you use a tender to get the shore. Cabanas have a front porch and include comfortable furnishings, side tables and bottled water. And theyre usually a lot less crowded! Tip: If your Bahamas cruise also stops in Freeport, I recommend the Swim With The Pigs excursion that NCL offers thereyou can take unlimited photos and video at no additional charge. Acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line in 1977, Great Stirrup Cay is located about 62 miles from Nassau, the Bahamian capital on the island of New Providence. Bring cash (US dollars) as many local traders do not accept credit cards or stateroom passes. CocoCay Bahamas is a great choice for RCI's beach day experience, thanks to its natural beauty, proximity to several major cruise ports, and its sunny year-round climate . Cabana No. Were here to share some insider information about Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas including what you can expect from this port of call. She passed away during the journey, and her husband hoped to make it to Key West for burial. Apart from those two items, you dont NEED to bring anything. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The island is a little unique in that you dont have a big pier (just yet) that the ship docks at to let passengers off. This 250+ acre retreat, which is in close proximity to Nassau, Bahamas, is reserved only for the company's cruise ships. There are very limited complimentary beverages available with meals: coffee and ice water. The .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}cabanas are open-air style with an open wall facing the beach and windows on each side. This is beneficial, as there can be up to two ships that visit per day, which is common during the summer months. You wont find splash pads, playgrounds, kid pools, or water slides. Tucked away at the northern end of the Berry Islands is Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Note that the operators of this shore excursion dont allow guests to take their own photos (but you can purchase pictures). Looks like a wonderful place to relax, Yes, the food on Great Stirrup Cay is included with your cruise fare! Even the people working at the straw market dont live herethey take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay. These villas have a separate bedroom with king-size bed in addition to the living area, with a dining table on the patio. With the beach wheelchair, however, it should be much easier to navigate. (See our suggest cruise packing items here.) Chairs are free. Tip: If youre thinking of visiting the Mot Bar in Silver Cove, consider upgrading your beverage package to the Premium Plus Beverage Package. In simple terms, you can get almost anything on the ship that's priced less than $15 per glass. Entertainment on the private island focuses on music and dancing, centered around the bars and the bandstand. Although these smaller beaches are generally where cabana guests go, theyre also open to anyone. All three lines are owned by the . Pick them up at Mat and Float Rentals, across from Bertrams Cove Beach. Whether you love social media of just want a nice snapshot, there are a ton of photo opportunities around Great Stirrup Cay. Im so glad youre here! These luxury villas include beds, a living room, bathroom, fridge, TV, and outdoor seating areas. Classic Cabanas are located on Fiesta Beach, closest to the Silver Cove villas. Its a fantastic destination and port of call for lucky cruisers with NCL. All food for the day is sent over on tender boats with the ships kitchen staff in the morning. with respect to the mortgage by Great Stirrup Cay Limited over Great Stirrup Cay Island, (x) use commercially reasonable efforts to, as soon as practicable after receipt of the Great Stirrup Cay Mortgage Central Bank Approval with respect to Great Stirrup Cay Limited and the Supplemental Security Agent Central Bank Approval, with respect . Those who have paid to enjoy the Silver Cove experience have their own exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar with an upscale buffet including lobster tail and jumbo shrimp. Most chairs arent shaded, so you might consider renting a clamshell to keep out of the sun. Great Stirrup Cay happens to be located adjacent toLittle Stirrup Cay,home to RCCs private island CocoCay. If you want an exclusive hangout with even more amenities, youll want to reserve one of the Silver Cove villas. Prices start from $599 to over $1100 for up to 8 guests (and $49 for each additional guest, up to 10 in total). The very first cruise line private island, Great Stirrup Cay is a 268-acre piece of paradise in the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. Located by the Silver Cove lagoon, these villas have two bedrooms flanking a central indoor living space. We'll send you a weekly newsletter to your inbox. Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale buffet with elevated choices such as grilled lobster tail and jumbo shrimp ceviche. Meals are cooked to order. Ships planning to visit Great Stirrup Cay often will cancel during rough sea conditions because its a tender port. Take a Catamaran and Snorkel Tour at Great Stirrup Cay, Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know, Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas for Cruise Visitors, https://www.cruisehive.com/author/gillian, UK Cruise Line to Remove Requirements on Sailings From May, Worlds Largest Cruise Ship Oversold for Spring Break, Carnival Cruise Ship Will Offer Transatlantic Voyage After Dry Dock. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. You can rent snorkel equipment for the day ($37/adult, $22/child) but we prefer to pack our own full-face snorkel masks. Great Stirrup Cay is the northernmost island in the Berry Islands and is 250 acres of paradise. As of 2023, there are 14 ships featuring itineraries that include Great Stirrup Cay: When I first published this post about Great Stirrup Cay in 2020 (yup, I actually cruised to GSC in mid-February 2020 right before the world shut down) I planned to update the info about Great Stirrup Cay I had gathered for my readers about once a year. Welcome to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island paradise exclusive to Norwegian guests. This is for laid-back folks looking for a relaxing tour around the beautiful island waters of the Berry Islands aboard a modern double-decker catamaran. 70 Fun Things to Do on the Ship, Norwegian Cruise Line Sharply Raises Service Charges Again (Up to 25%), 25+ Fun Must-Do Things on a Norwegian Cruise, 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 Youd Never Think Of), Carnival Is Fixing a MAJOR Issue With Sailing from Galveston, Princess Cruise Gratuity (Tips) Full Guide: How Much, How They Work, and More, Hotels With Cruise Shuttles For Every Major Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Tricks, Secrets, and Freebies, 39 Useful Things to Pack For Your Cruise (Including 17 Youd Never Think Of). Youll no doubt see the new replica lighthouse that NCL uses for ziplining, since its in a very central location. The swimming area is the most protected of all the coves, and the beach is stunning, with overwater swings for a photo op and a gazebo overlooking the sea. Offer is not applicable on Harvest Caye, nor sailings that are two (2) days or less. Osprey Zipline ($79/$59 kids) Three easy flights: the first flight south is the tallest at 120 feet above the ground. Having it work on Great Stirrup Cay means you are better able to get your moneys worth. Great Stirrup Cay is one of the ports of call on your Norwegian Cruise Line, but you can't find the island on a map. Theyve destroyed the beauty of the island and cheapened in with PAY for items they didnt have earlier. Its also smart to bring a towel from the ship. Food on Great Stirrup Cay is complimentary and there are three dining options to choose from: Jumbo Beach Grill is the largest and most popular buffet venue. The new Silver Cove gated area is secluded at the far end of the cay, away from the main beach. Two lounge chairs with a beach umbrella will be reserved for you at the beach. The waters around Great Stirrup Cay are crystal clear, and there are plenty of opportunities to snorkel right from the beach. Manage Settings With that in mind, Ive been updating this Ultimate Guide to Great Stirrup Cay about every six months. Tenders run continually throughout the day so you can come and go from the island whenever you want. These beautifully designed cabanas feature a large L-shaped couch, a mini-fridge, ceiling fan, four lounge chairs on the porch area, four floating pads, fresh towel supply, snacks, a bowl of fresh fruit, dedicated waiter service, an extra $50 credit for food and a private shower on the back. The island zipline adventure is a brand new shore excursion offered on Great Stirrup Cay. Ziplining is a big draw and youll see the lines criss-crossing the entire island. Much of the island is undeveloped, but Norwegian has carved out a beachy paradise on the northern shore, with plenty of fun-in-the-sun options for cruisers. Thanks for stopping by! From a distance, the first thing you will notice on the island is the massive lighthouse that towers over everything. The final zip is 600 feet long and carries you from a height of 75 feet back to ground level. This video shows off the various. But of course, just like with bigger and better cruise ships, there is also competition among private islands. Meanwhile, you have two choices of where to rent a villa oceanside or surrounding a massive lagoon of electric blue water. It will list times and the location where you can pick up tender tickets. Your ships signal doesnt reach the island. The island features a sweeping shoreline that features several different coves with white sand and gorgeous blue water. Both beaches are available to the public and offer beach chairs closer to the water. In short, if youve ever wanted to visit a picturesque private island without having to pay a fortune, this is it. Worth Reading: Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know. Prices for this trip are US $65 for adults and $45 for children aged 8+. That makes it extremely simple for passengers. The rainiest time of year in the Berry Islands is June through September, with the islands seeing 4-6 inches (10-16 cm) of rain per month. If you have a shore excursion that departs from the dock on the south side of the island, shuttles will take you to and from that location. The best beach on Great Stirrup Cay will depend on your preferences because they're all beautiful. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. Enjoy a good swim or just float around on a float-pad (available for $16 for the day) from one of the shacks offering equipment rentals. Umbrellas can be rented. All excursions are booked through NCL. Each cabana includes a deck in the front with landscaping surrounding it; each comes with a ramp entrance (though the cruise line notes that cabanas are not wheelchair accessible). This is also the best place to shop for that perfect gift to take to your friend or family back at home that you wont find anywhere else. Age and weight restrictions apply to this tour, so read carefully before booking. Norwegian employs staff members that resides on the island to prepare for ship visits.

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