This lighthouse was originally constructed in 1863 by theBritish Imperial Lighthouse Service. Thats a day where you dont get the full potential of the package despite having to pay for the service. The staff youll meet during the day on Great Stirrup Cay come over from the ship. It is named after the British naval commander who settled on Great Stirrup Cay in the 18th century. However, if you want more space to stretch out and relax, the minimal upcharge to the larger cabana offers a great value. 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 .
Your Guide to Great Stirrup Cay Cabanas - Cruise Critic Great Stirrup Cay Great Stirrup Cay. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the island. Definitely take some closed-toe walking shoes if you want to do this short hike.
Great Stirrup Cay - Wikipedia 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. The beach is certainly family-friendly, and older kids can enjoy the various activities and shore excursions. However, there are beautiful calms shallow waters right off the beach that provide a safe environment for swimming and snorkeling in the clear warm water. Beach wheelchairs are available on request. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 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. Erica Silverstein is a cruise and family travel expert, who has been covering the industry for more than 15 years. Copyright Cruise Blog Media LLC 2023. You pay for drinks with your cruise card as you would onboard. Enjoy the scenic views on this leisurely kayaking tour. Two lounge chairs with a beach umbrella will be reserved for you at the beach. Room service is included if youd prefer to dine in the villa. The cruise line might ask passengers to make a reservation for a tender if you want to go right when they start running. This service is generally at . Catching up with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection - What's it Like On Board Evrima? Great Stirrup Cay, just like most cruise stops in the Caribbean, enjoys a warm tropical temperature throughout the year. Pricing is per cabana (not per person) and can vary based on your individual ship and itinerary, but daily rates start at $445 for the small cabanas and $495 for the large cabanas; fee includes a $50 credit for use toward food and beverages. Or upgrade to a Premier Cabana with room for eight guests. You wont have to deal with crowds, and it could be a perfect day of relaxation when the pool deck, restaurants, and bars are almost empty. It also comes with four floating mats and bottled water. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. At about 2 long by a half-mile wide, its decently sized but only a portion of the island is developed for cruise passengers. You should also get priority tendering with a villa, which is great when everyone's trying to get to the island - it can take hours to get all the passengers tendered over. Drinks are charged to your stateroom pass unless you have a drinks package in which case, just like onboard ship, your drinks are free. Just like the cabanas on the island, NCL allows two extra guests over the stated capacity, with an upcharge of $35 per person for the smaller villas, and $49 per person for the one- and two-bedroom villas. Ships planning to visit Great Stirrup Cay often will cancel during rough sea conditions because its a tender port. The largest and most popular dining venue is the Jumbey Beach Grill, an open-air buffet venue serving grilled burgers and chicken and sides like corn on the cob, salad, fruit, and dessert. U.S. dollars are accepted. On Great Stirrup Cay, the main bars include Bacardi Bar, Bertram's Bar and Patron Bar, specializing in various frozen beachy concoctions. The island has two courses featuring six zips and a ropes course of cargo nets, chimney climbs, and V net bridges. A specialty cabana menu is available featuring items such as a charcuterie platter, a seafood platter with chilled shrimp and lobster, sushi, as well as beer, wine and bottle service. Manage Settings It is part of the Berry Islands, 140 miles east of Miami, Florida and between Great Harbour Cay and RCIs private CocoCay, formerly Little Stirrup Cay. Prices are as of 2022, so expect about a 10-15% increase from last years pricing: Kayak Tour ($59/$39 kids): Away from the crowds, youll join a group to paddle your two-person kayak in the waters south of Great Stirrup Cay. Does not include: Room service, mini bar purchases, vending machines; Guest's check may reflect applicable VAT and/or taxes for certain ports or itineraries. But the biggest price hikes have been with the luxury experiences in Silver Cove. They overlook the Silver Cove Lagoon which has overwater swings, the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar and the Moet Champagne Bar. Abaco Taco is a make-your-own taco bar with a variety of toppings available. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. It is located between Great Harbour Cay and Little Stirrup Cay (now renamed CocoCay at Perfect Cay) about 140 miles east of Miami. Im seeing 10 to 15% jumps in pricing for shore excursions in just the past six monthsand thats after the usual annual increases. Soar Across Great Stirrup Cay. Elizabeth had been ill and hoped that the climate in Florida, where her brother lived, would help her condition. Later the island was a military installation, until it was claimed by the oil company that later leased the island to NCL. Let me know in the comments below! Bertrams Beach is the main beach where tenders arrive and depart. This video shows off the various. NCL appears to be going more for a "luxury resort feel" plus great beach options - when the additions of a pool and actual resort features plus the pier do (hopefully) materialize, it will be interesting to compare the two islands and their 180 degree different approach to private island excursions. Bring cash (US dollars) as many local traders do not accept credit cards or stateroom passes. There are many species of birds including gulls and sanderlings, lizards, crabs and small island creatures that you are bound to catch a glimpse of, once in a while. The warmest months are July and August, where highs average 91F (33C). Thankfully, most of the action on the island is centrally located by the main beach at Bertrams Cove. Weve put together everything to know about the island.
If its been a few years since youve visited the private island, youll be amazed at how much its changed while still retaining its charm. 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. Again, no specific details were mentioned, but it gave the impression that there could be some big changes to the island in the coming years. The only people allowed on the island are Norwegian passengers and staff. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-leader-4','ezslot_17',606,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-leader-4-0');If youd prefer to relax ON the water, you can rent a floating mat for $16 a day.
16 Secrets To Know About Great Stirrup Cay - Cruise Mummy There are a few sets around the island and you can get a pic with your toes dangling in the water.
Everything You Need to Know about Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 2020 CRUISES TO GREAT STIRRUP CAY ISLAND - Norwegian Cruise Line What is included there? Rentals of beach gear and private cabanas are also handled by the shore excursions desk. Its an open-air shelter with comfortable indoor/outdoor seating and comes with four complimentary floating mats.
. Each group of cabanas is located close to small beaches that are often far less crowded than the main beach. SUP is easy to learn, and the staff will give you pointers before sending you out to paddle around Bertrams Cove. 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. One of the most popular are the over-the-water swings. 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. If youre really looking to relax in comfort on your Great Stirrup Cay beach day, you can rent a private cabana or villa for the day. The middle beach, known as Cabana Beach, has private cabanas for rent on a raised, hilly area on the beach. Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas, offers gorgeous white sand beaches, water sports and activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars. Explore Bahamas itineraries, find available cabins and book with GoToSea. Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line and can only be visited as a port of call from a NCL cruise. Great Stirrup Cay is an . Didnt notice. 12 Amazing Cruise Line Private Islands to Visit in 2023 and Beyond, 7 Best Beaches in Nassau Bahamas for Cruisers, Giada De Laurentiis Named Godmother of Oceania Cruises New Ship Vista, Norwegian Cruise Line Announces 2023 Meet the Winemaker Series, P&O Arvia Naming Ceremony Will Feature Olly Murs, Carnival Now Offering Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagars Santo Tequila Fleetwide, Princess Cruises Introduces Welcome Home Program, https://shouldbecruising.com/privacy-policy/, Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise, Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise, Great Stirrup Cay Two Bedroom Family Suite Villa (https://youtu.be/PUDp-RaXOO0), 25 Norwegian Cruise Tips You Need to Know, Norwegians Free at Sea: The Ultimate Guide, 2020 Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages, A photo ID (needs to be a valid drivers license if youre doing the wave runner tour), Tennis shoes for visiting the lighthouse or ziplining. Located at Bertrams Cove, this garden offers snorkelers something to keep them busy with underwater statues of mermaids, sea creatures, fountains and urns. And lastly, remember to wear good water shoes. The cost of the guided kayaking tour is US $55 for adults and $40 for children aged 8 and above. This would be a great day to book a (possibly discounted) spa treatment! Pricing for most of their excursions falls within the range of $75-$140/adult and $55-$99/child. This actually is a big benefit to buying the package for cruises that visit the island. One other great spot is the tender that takes you back and forth from the ship. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas. Norwegian Cruise Line Internet Packages and Prices, Club Orange, Holland America's Priority Program, 10 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Line Private Island, 6 Cruise Memories That Will Warm Your Heart, Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), Large Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), Private Cabanas on Great Stirrup Cay (Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line), P&O Cruises Reveals Nicole Sherzinger as Godmother of New Ship Arvia, Carnival Miracle Set to Become Fourth Carnival Ship to Sail From Galveston, Life at Sea Cruises Opens Sales for World's First Three-Year Cruise, Oceania Reveals Giada de Laurentiis as Godmother of New Ship Vista. Happy Cruising!! It could be, however, they also let Haven passengers in as well. If youre looking for some out-of-the-ordinary things to do on Great Stirrup Cay, I have a couple of fun recommendations for you, especially if you enjoy history. 2023 Cruzely.com | Laisman Publishing, LLC, 20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know, Worth It? If you or one of your cruising group is unable to walk at all, tendering to the island might not be possible. 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. On Great Stirrup Cay, the equivalent is the Silver Cove area of the island. Vegetarian main dishes are limited on the island, and cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed if youre concerned about gluten, nuts, or other allergens. At a height of 110 feet, you can soar up to 30 miles per hour to gain a whole new perspective of this private island oasis. 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. If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again. 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 . Once everyones back on board, enjoy a slow cruise back to Great Stirrup Cay while enjoying island music and light refreshments, snacks and alcoholic beverages. Big cabanas are well-suited to large groups or families traveling together. The smaller-sized Cabanas on the Cay are located just west of their larger counterparts on Fiesta Beach, considered by some to be quieter and more laid-back than Cabana Beach, which is closer to the action and the crowds. Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise. 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. Even the people working at the straw market dont live herethey take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay. I love the idea of a private island. You cant miss itthe mats are a seriously bright shade of yellow! Early last year you could have enjoyed a Silver Cove Villa for less than half the price that you now see in 2023. For thrill seekers, one of the newest attractions on Great Stirrup Cay is the zip-line. This helps them stand out from the rest of the island. 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. Were here to share some insider information about Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas including what you can expect from this port of call. Today, Norwegian Cruise Line actually operates a couple, including Harvest Caye in the Caribbean and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Having food included is one of my favorite parts about cruising :D, Private islands are always the highlight of a cruise for me - they're just so relaxing and a reminder to take things a bit slower. Stingray City Bahamas ($99/$79 kids): Not to be confused with the famous Stingray City off of Grand Cayman where you can feed wild rays, this excursion takes you on a speedboat ride to Stingray City Bahamas. What is your opinion on the cabana vs villa? She was buried next to Captain Bertram. Most of this has to do with supply and demand. The shallow ocean waters are warmest in the summer season, with temperatures reaching up to 86F in August. 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. There arent any lockers available on the island for passengers to secure their valuables. She uses her personal journals and memories to write about her many cruise experiences around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, trans-Atlantic, Norwegian Fjords, Panama Canal and South America including Cape Horn. Apart from those two items, you dont NEED to bring anything. Norwegian has a small staff that stays on the island, but there are no permanent residents. It's included as a day stop on many Norwegian sailings in the region and gets occasional visits from Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises ships. 23K views 6 months ago Join the legend and molly as they show you around great stirrup cay which is norwegian cruise line's private island in the bahamas. So there you have it! When we visited in late November and found the water cool. If you want to purchase something here, then bring a little bit of cash. There are also shuttles that will take you right to Silver Cove and back. Below, weve included the listing of activities and rentals from a recent cruise, along with prices: We mentioned above that Great Stirrup Cay is right next to CocoCay. Want to really get away from the crowds? The first burial was Captain Allan Bertram (1790-1834), the namesake of Bertrams Cove. The British Navy captain, commander of HMS Tweed, asked to be buried here facing the beach that he loved. Great Stirrup Cay was the first cruise line private island when it was acquired back in the 1970's, but it has come a long way since then. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Everything we know so far about NCLs newest ship: Norwegian Viva. Ive never heard of this place before! It features 38 air-conditioned beachfront villas, a Mandara Spa, a Mot & Chandon Bar and the Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates. Yes! Youll no doubt see the new replica lighthouse that NCL uses for ziplining, since its in a very central location. Peak hurricane period in the Bahamas lasts from early August until late October. The journey is about a mile each way, and you might even spot some local wildlife, including iguanas and hummingbirds on your walk. Beach wheelchairs with massive inflatable tires are available for you to use for free. Theyve destroyed the beauty of the island and cheapened in with PAY for items they didnt have earlier. Starting from the 110-foot (33.5 m) replica lighthouse, the new course features 2935 feet (895 m) of zipline! When the stingrays approach, you will have an opportunity to pet, feed and have a photo taken with these majestic creatures. You'll have a view here of the cove, since these cabanas are perched on top of a small hill. Guests who sign up for a spa treatment have an added perkaccess to the private lagoon and Silver Coves restaurant and bars, normally reserved for those renting a villa. Have more questions about visiting Great Stirrup Cay? With the beach wheelchair, however, it should be much easier to navigate. Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. This 1 hour course includes a series of six ziplines, net bridges, and other challenge obstacles. Cabana rentals start at $249 for 8 guests with additional fees for more guests. There are very limited complimentary beverages available with meals: coffee and ice water. Your ships signal doesnt reach the island. It is a series of three flights starting 130 feet above ground from a replica lighthouse (not the historic real lighthouse on the island!) This includes all bars, lounges, restaurants, and the brand's private island of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The menus include ceviche, pulled pork sandwiches, spicy chicken sandwiches and more. Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesnt run the bazaar, you wont be able to use your cruise card here. Norwegian's island sits in a chain of islands called the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. If you want an exclusive hangout with even more amenities, youll want to reserve one of the Silver Cove villas. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. You can rent an open-air cabana on the island, starting at $449 for a Classic Cabana that will accommodate six people. The warmest months are from May to October, which typically enjoy highs of between 86F- 90F with gentle breezes. On your return, snacks and complimentary adult beverages are available. Enjoy a hearty serving of tasty food including burgers, pizza, hot dogs and grilled chicken or steak. Great tip about not having wifi outside of international cell service. Cabana and villa guests have a food truck option close to them called Tropic Like Its Hot. This 90-minute guided tour will take you to the home of huge southern stingrays. Cabana No. However, part of NCLs improvement plan for the future includes a swimming pool complex and water features including a lazy river. The pigs are actually located on nearby Treasure Island, a 10-minute boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay. It was still nice and warm to lay on the beach, but we didnt do much swimming. When it comes to cruising, its hard to beat a port-of-call thats a private island. Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. Guests who book a villa or a Mandara Spa treatment on the island have access to an additional complimentary restaurant. Other bars in Great Stirrup Cay include the Lighthouse Bar and the Patrons Bar along with two private bars (Moet Bar and Silver Cove Bar) at the exclusive Silver Cove. You may add up to two additional people for an additional $30 per-person charge, for a maximum of eight people in the small cabanas and 10 in the large cabanas. Do you have a specific ship you love or would like to try? Theres no service while youre on the beach so if you want to get in touch at home or post to social media about your day at the beach, youll need to wait until you go back aboard. All cabanas feature a sofa and several chairs, and a small patio. Glide smoothly along the coastline enjoying the scenery and spotting fish and marine life beneath the water, while maintaining your balance on this fitness ride. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with exotic fish, or just stroll the white sand beaches. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry. The islands are about 140 miles east of Miami, making it a close port of call for cruises departing the Florida port. You can also visit a still-functional lighthouse dating to 1863 or look for locations for fun . And because of the island's shape, the shore is naturally protected, meaning that the water is almost always calm. However, anyone can relax on the sand or use the free beach chairs available. During our visit we were given a tour and told that there were bigger plans in the works for Great Stirrup Cay. Great Stirrup Cay: Everything you need to know about Norwegians private island. Nibble on fresh fruit and enjoy the soft ocean breezes from the plush sectional inside your very own private cabana on Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. For the ultimate relaxation, the new Silver Cove area offers beautiful private two-storey villas and a private lagoon for an additional fee. Classic Cabanas are near Fiesta Beach, and Premier Cabanas are located close to Cabana Beach. Carrie Ann is the founder of Should Be Cruising and a lifelong travel fanatic. Though both cabana types are situated at the farthest end of the island and face quieter beaches than the bustling main beach area, the smaller cabanas offer a slightly more laid-back experience. Read more: Why You Need a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Your Next Cruise. You get the chance to feed and interact with these porkers and have a photo op before relaxing with a drink on the observation deck and watching the fun. Live music with a Caribbean flair is played by local musicians at the bandstand directly across from the main beach at Bertrams Cove. Let us know in the comments below. First things first an overview of exactly what Great Stirrup Cay is all about. This 250+ acre retreat, which is in close proximity to Nassau, Bahamas, is reserved only for the company's cruise ships. Tip: If youre thinking of visiting the Mot Bar in Silver Cove, consider upgrading your beverage package to the Premium Plus Beverage Package. And unless you have premium tastes, your favorite liquors will be included. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Its also smart to bring a towel from the ship. Both beaches are available to the public and offer beach chairs closer to the water.
Best Things to Do in Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 2020 - EatSleepCruise.com If youve never seen it in person, you will from the cruise ship. Although the station was manned for many years, the light is currently fully-automated and solar-powered. Thanks in advance for any ideas/guidance! CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. On Great Stirrup Cay youll have three options for ziplining: the Osprey Zipline, the Seahawk Zipline, or a combo package that lets you ride both. 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. They helped him find the spot next to Captain Bertrand's grave. Keep in mind the only other people in this area will be those whove booked villas, so its a bit quieter than the rest of the island. To access the spot you have to purchase a villa during your stay on the island (prices start around $500). Underwater Sculpture Garden 5. Buffet: Starting at 11:30, there is a large buffet serving up a number of dishes, including burgers, dogs, pizza, salads, chicken, fruits, and a few other dishes. NCL used to offer tram service for transporting cruisers from the tender point to their cabanas, but currently it is not offering that service. They can still enjoy the rest of the ship but also have their own little spot. Wait times can be long at peak transit times, so plan accordingly (for example, if youre trying to get back on board for an afternoon spa treatment). You can pick up Bahamian souvenirs at the small straw market, close to the main beach. Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels with Expedia Rewards. Enjoy the view of the islands coastline and the beautiful blue sea before the boat lands right on the beach where you can walk ashore. Each fully-furnished villa features air conditioning, private bathrooms, and a patio. Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas. There are no manmade swimming pools at Great Stirrup Cay. Will the cruise ship wait for you if you're late at a port? There are also a number of covered areas with picnic tables for you to sit and eat. Bars on GSC that are open to all guests include the Patrn Bar, Bertrams Bar, Bacardi Bar, and the Lighthouse Beach Bar. If youre not sure exactly where to go, just ask the staff at Susans Rock Snorkel Center. The new Silver Cove gated area is secluded at the far end of the cay, away from the main beach.
Bahamas Cruises: Cruise to Bahamas | Norwegian Cruise Line
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