Norwegian Cruise Line passengers will have a new hub for cool thrills and family experiences next month when the cruise line opens its new six-acre Great Tides Waterpark in the Bahamas.
NCL has shared images of the new attraction on the cruise line’s 270-acre private island, Great Stirrup Cay. For the first time, the public can get a glimpse of the park’s 19 waterslides, 9,000-square-foot splashpad, the “dynamic river,” industry-first cliff jumps and new food offerings.
The new waterpark will open to guests on Sept. 4; its first visitors will be passengers sailing on Norwegian Luna. Guests cruising with NCL on or after opening day can now purchase day passes to the waterpark and reserve private cabanas for up to six guests.
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“With just one month until the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark, we’re excited to give guests a first look at what will become one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic destination experiences that can only be enjoyed when sailing with us,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, in a news release. “Great Tides Waterpark will showcase the innovative design, scale and adventure that await guests visiting the island. Together with our ongoing enhancements across Great Stirrup Cay, we’re creating even more ways for guests to enjoy their day in paradise without compromise.”
Anchored by the 170-foot-tall Tidal Tower, the waterpark competes with Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is visible from Great Stirrup Cay. Within the waterpark, guests can float through an “immersive tunnel” on the Wandering River, enjoy a four-person body slide, explore the family-friendly splash zone and zip down Breakwater Blasters, a tube slide with uphill water propulsion.
Great Tides Waterpark guests can also experience Cliffside Cove, which is home to the “industry’s first and the Caribbean’s tallest cliff jumps.”
New à la carte dining options complement the waterpark thrills at Low Tide Smoke, a barbecue restaurant, Catch of the Cay, a seafood-centric eatery, and Tidal Treats, which has ice cream and desserts. Complimentary buffet-style options will also be available within the waterpark.
Guests can also grab a drink at the Grotto Bar located at Cliffside Cove and the Floataway Bar, which is located along the path of the Wandering River — meaning guests don’t have to leave the water to enjoy a beverage. Passengers with NCL’s “Free at Sea” unlimited beverage package can take advantage of included drinks on the island.
The waterpark builds on recent upgrades to Great Stirrup Cay, including the Great Life Lagoon with a 28,000-square-foot heated pool, the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, Splash Harbor splash pad and the island’s new tram system. NCL recently wrapped up construction on a two-berth pier designed to eliminate tendering for most guests at the destination.
