Norwegian Cruise Line Is Spending $150 Million to Expand Its Bahamas Pier, With a 2026 Completion Date

Norwegian Cruise Line is in the middle of a $150 million expansion of its pier at Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas, along with a nearly six-acre waterpark, a massive heated lagoon-style pool and a broad lineup of new attractions as the company prepares for a major increase in Caribbean cruise traffic through 2026.

The project marks the largest redevelopment in the history of the private island destination, which Norwegian Cruise Line has operated in The Bahamas for decades.

At the center of the expansion is a new pier that will allow two large cruise ships to dock at Great Stirrup Cay simultaneously, eliminating one of the island’s biggest operational limitations.

For years, passengers visiting the island have relied on tender boats to get ashore, a process that could become slow during busy days and vulnerable to weather conditions. The new pier is expected to become fully operational in 2026 and is designed to reduce transfer times while supporting larger passenger volumes across Norwegian’s expanding Caribbean network.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings says more than 1 million passengers are expected to visit Great Stirrup Cay annually by 2026 across 15 ships operating Caribbean itineraries.

A Massive New Waterpark Is Coming in 2026

The biggest new addition will be the upcoming Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre attraction scheduled to debut in summer 2026.

Norwegian says the waterpark will include 19 waterslides, an approximately 800-foot dynamic river, cliff jumps, family raft attractions and a large children’s splash zone.

The centerpiece will be the 170-foot Tidal Tower, featuring eight slides ranging from racing slides and tube slides to raft rides and body slides. Select attractions will use conveyor systems designed to carry rafts to the top of the tower.

The waterpark will also include what Norwegian says will be the cruise industry’s first cliffside jumps at a private island destination, with jumping platforms standing 10 feet and 15 feet above the water.

A 9,000-square-foot splash zone with mini slides and interactive water features is also planned for younger travelers, anchored by a tipping bucket standing more than 40 feet above the play area.

Another major attraction will be the new dynamic river experience, which Norwegian describes as a faster-moving alternative to a traditional lazy river. The approximately 800-foot river course will include multiple entry points, nearby swim-up bars and an illuminated grotto tunnel.

The company is also adding a new jet kart attraction combining jet skiing and go-kart-style racing as part of the island’s new shore excursion lineup.

The Island Is Getting a Huge New Heated Pool

Norwegian is also developing a new heated pool complex called Great Life Lagoon, another major piece of the island’s redevelopment.

The 1.4-acre pool area will include private villas and cabanas, complimentary lounge seating and two swim-up bars.

One venue, called Reef Bar, will feature music programming throughout the day, while Waves Bar will be positioned near a family splash area with water attractions for children.

Nearby, Norwegian is adding Splash Harbor, a 3,400-square-foot splash pad with fountains, aquatic features and shaded lounge areas for parents.

The broader expansion also includes a new welcome center and an island-wide tram service designed to improve transportation throughout the destination.

Adults-Only Areas and Recreation Spaces Are Also Expanding

Norwegian is also adding new adult-focused and recreational areas throughout Great Stirrup Cay.

The new Vibe Shore Club will operate as an adults-only section with upgraded loungers, hanging daybeds, private villas and a dedicated bar. Access will require the purchase of a day pass.

A new recreational complex called Horizon Park will include pickleball courts, mini golf, lawn-style games and sports areas.

The company is also building Hammock Bay, a relaxation area with more than 50 hammocks positioned near the island’s barbecue dining venue.

Norwegian’s New Ships Will Feature Great Stirrup Cay

The expansion is tied closely to Norwegian Cruise Line’s upcoming Caribbean deployment plans.

The company says both Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna will sail Caribbean itineraries featuring Great Stirrup Cay beginning in 2026.

Norwegian Aqua is scheduled to operate seven-day Caribbean voyages from Miami and Port Canaveral through October 2027, with calls in destinations including Great Stirrup Cay, the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands.

Norwegian Luna, which debuts in March 2026, will also operate seven-day Caribbean itineraries featuring the private island destination.