NCL's Great Stirrup Cay

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NCL's Great Stirrup Cay

Ironically for a line that was the great innovator of the private island concept, NCL offers just one "tour" aside from the typical parasailing -- and it's pretty basic; definitely not extraordinary! But here 'tis.

Snorkeling Tour

Unlike a lot of snorkeling excursions where you’re with a specific group for a designated hour or two, NCL allows its guests to rent their snorkeling equipment for a full seven hours! Also, instructors are on hand for a free lesson and to answer your questions, then you can snorkel at your leisure during your stay on the island. Stop for lunch, then come back to snorkeling.

Flexible cruisers will love that they can snorkel at their leisure ... as well as take a break, experience a different part of the island, and then come back to the water on their own accord.

Suration of Excursion: Seven hours

Tip: Take advantage of the free snorkel tours around the cove that the instructors give hourly.

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Language and Currency

As this private island is in the Bahamas, English is the preferred language and if not using your shipboard credit account, US Currency is accepted (needed if you plan to shop at the Straw Market).

What is Great Stirrup Cay like?

Great Stirrup Cay was the cruise industry’s first private island playground. It is part of Bahama’s Berry Island chain and lies about 50 miles from Nassau. This private retreat is an unspoiled paradise of powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. Lush wooded areas add to the beauty of this setting. As the island is surrounded by a reef, coral and fish are abundant in the waters of the peaceful cove. Hammocks, swaying palm trees, lounge chairs lining the beach and a private mansion complete the landscape. The island even boasts its own lighthouse.

What is the weather like?

Typical Bahamian tropical weather is what to expect. Average temperatures easily range in the 80’s, but an occasional cold front will cause a drop in temperatures. The average water temperature is 72°.

Where does the ship dock?

Your ship will anchor off-shore and you will be tendered to the island.

Where is the shopping?

NCL's Great Stirrup Cay Straw MarketThere is a Straw Market on the island that offers a wide range of Bahamian crafts and souvenirs. Some of the bargains are better than those you will find in Nassau.

What is there to do?

The beach offers swimming, snorkeling, paddle boats, catamarans and rafts. You can circle the island in a kayak or sailboat. The ship’s calypso band provides the opportunity to practice your limbo techniques. Take a hike along one of the nature trails in search of the lighthouse. Play a game of volleyball, then search out one of the palm-shaded hammocks to relax. For those so inclined, the ship’s spa also sets up an area for beachside massages ($1 a minute).

What are my choices for dining and drinking?

Lunch Time on Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas
NCL provides a very nice barbeque luncheon and an enclosed bar offers tropical drinks, soda and beer.