Norwegian Cruise Line island waterpark set for late summer opening
The highly anticipated summer 2026 debut of Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Tides Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay, the line's private island in The Bahamas, finally has a confirmed grand opening date.
First announced in summer 2025, Great Tides Waterpark is central to the cruise line's strategy to attract more families, a demographic that's driving robust demand for cruise vacations. The new waterpark promises family-friendly adventure across 19 waterslides and immersive attractions designed for all ages.
The nearly six-acre waterpark is part of a second phase of Great Stirrup Cay enhancements following the opening of new island amenities in early 2026. New features already open on the island include a new cruise ship pier, lagoon-style pool with swim-up bars, a kids' splash pad, an adults-only retreat, and a tram service.
Much like Royal Caribbean did when it transformed its private island experience into Perfect Day at CocoCay, Norwegian is betting on big thrills and resort-style amenities with Great Stirrup Cay's makeover.
If your family has a cruise to Great Stirrup Cay booked, or if you're thinking about booking one, here's what to know about Great Tides Waterpark, when it opens, and what's included with a waterpark day pass.
Great Tides Waterpark set to open Sept. 4
Norwegian Cruise Line will celebrate the grand opening of Great Tides Waterpark on Sept. 4 - just before the unofficial end of summer, Labor Day.
Passengers sailing on Norwegian Luna's Aug. 29 sailing, a seven-day Caribbean and Great Stirrup Cay cruise from Miami, will get the first chance to visit the new waterpark with the purchase of a day pass. Families who want to be among the first to experience Great Tides Waterpark can also cruise to Great Stirrup Cay in September on a short Bahamas cruise from Miami on Norwegian Getaway or on a seven-day Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida on Norwegian Prima.
At Great Tides Waterpark, families will be able to splash down 19 waterslides, including several thrilling slides set on a 170-foot Tidal Tower. A highlight of the Tidal Tower attractions is the Breakwater Blasters - industry-first water coasters offering downhill drops and uphill blasts on an inner tube. Other slides include Whitewater Dash with two body slides, Rapid Mat Racers featuring two mat slides, and tube slides, Tropic Storm and Tropic Spiral.
Related: Inside Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay renovations
Families will find additional slides and attractions in Cliffside Cove, featuring The Great Slide - a four-person body slide, Fearless Falls racing slides, and the cruise industry's first cliff jumps. Below the action, adults can hang out in a hidden Grotto Bar offering prime viewing.
Other highlights of Great Tides Waterpark include a 9,000-square-foot kids' zone called Splash Cay, and the Wandering River - a lively take on the classic lazy river that's over 800 feet long.
What's included with a Great Tides Waterpark day pass?
As of May 28, Great Tides Waterpark day passes are now available to purchase via NCL.com for sailings to Great Stirrup Cay on or after Sept. 4. Pricing varies based on seasonality and availability.
Children aged three and under receive complimentary admission to Great Tides Waterpark. All children aged 13 and younger must be accompanied by a ticketed guest aged 18 or older. Minimum height requirements for slides and experiences at the waterpark range from 36 to 48 inches.
Great Tides Waterpark day passes include:
- Waterpark access
- Lounge chairs and umbrellas, based upon availability
- Complimentary food truck dining options
- Towels for waterpark guests - no need to bring towels from the ship
- Complimentary lockers
- Tram service to and from the waterpark
Related: Best cocktails to try on Norwegian Cruise Line, according to cruisers
Passengers with the Free at Sea beverage package will be able to use it at Great Tides Waterpark. Two bars are featured inside the waterpark:
- Grotto Bar in Cliffside Cove
- Floataway Bar, a swim-up bar located in the pool connected to the Wandering River
Vacationers can also upgrade their waterpark experience with private cabana rentals. Shaded cabanas will be located steps from the waterpark's Tidal Tower and accommodate up to six guests, with waterpark admission and premium benefits included with the rental.
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Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
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This story was originally published May 28, 2026 at 6:07 AM.