Overview Great Stirrup Cay, a part of the Berry Islands, is a small island in the Bahamas. The northern part of the island is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and is used as NCL's "private island." NCL features this island as a port of call on many of their Bahamas and Caribbean cruise itineraries.
Norwegian Cruise Line was actually the first major cruise line to have its own private island. They came up with this idea in the 1970's. Since then many of their competitors have gotten their own private islands. The day spent on a private island has become a popular port of call, as the food on the island is included and you can get right off the ship and head to a beautiful beach.
Destinations Great Stirrup Cay is included on several of NCL's Bahamas and Caribbean cruise itineraries.
Cruise Lines Departing Here
Great Stirrup Cay is not a cruise departure port.
Currency The official currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD); however, the shops in Great Stirrup Cay will only accept your cruise card for payment purposes. This makes it so that anything you purchase is charged to your onboard account.
Language The official language of the Bahamas is English.
Tourist Attractions Great Stirrup Cay doesn't have a dedicated kids area or bike rentals. However, there still is a lot to do. There are a few bars and there's plenty of white-sand beach to relax on. Live music will be playing, and there will be water sports available for rent at the beach. For active travelers there are various hiking trails, and there's even a volleyball court.
While at this private island there will be a buffet that serves BBQ, fresh fruit, salad and a few other items. You don't have to pay for the food, since NCL operates this resort area. However, just like onboard the ship, if you want alcoholic beverages you'll have to charge it to your onboard account (using your cruise card).
There is a straw marketplace nearby, operated by locals. At the market you'll find a wide range of items, including t-shirts and shells.
Port Location NCL's ships anchor offshore and the cruise line transports its passengers to and from the island via tenders.
