Aang And Zuko Fanfiction Lemon, Herbsaint Vs Pernod, Dragunov Sniper Rifle, Articles G

Choose a beef, chicken, or fish soft taco, and load it up! 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. Each cabana now has. Does anyone know if the food choices on Great Stirrup Cay include gluten-free items? And because of the island's shape, the shore is naturally protected, meaning that the water is almost always calm. These include: Great Stirrup Cay - Norwegian Cruise Line; Perfect Day at Cococay - RCI; Castaway Cay - Disney and RCI; Ocean Cay Marine Reserve - MSC; Labadee, Haiti - RCI; Walk all the way to the end of the beach area, and youll find Silver Cove. Carry cash for the local market on the island; they dont take your ship stateroom card or credit card. Great Stirrup Cay is not Coco Cay. Definitely take some closed-toe walking shoes if you want to do this short hike. If you have an international plan on your phone, you should be able to access cellular data. You can pick up Bahamian souvenirs at the small straw market, close to the main beach. The back story is that Great Stirrup Cay was bought from Belcher Oil Company in 1977 and was the first island ever to be transformed into a private island cruise port for a cruise line. Its neighbors with Royal Caribbeans private island, Perfect Day at Cococay you can see that island from your ship and the largest Berry Island, Great Harbour Cay. Finally, if youve rented a Silver Cove villa for the day or have a spa treatment booked at the on-island Mandara Spa, you can enjoy a more upscale buffet experience at the Silver Cove Restaurant, located within the restricted-access area of the island. A shopping area and child areas, as well as restricted-access beaches are also included in your Caribbean holiday in the Bahamas. Those who have paid to enjoy the Silver Cove experience have their own exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar with an upscale buffet including lobster tail and jumbo shrimp. British educated with a diploma in journalism she has traveled the world, writing about her experiences with wonderful clarity and eyewitness detail. During our visit we were given a tour and told that there were bigger plans in the works for Great Stirrup Cay. Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. Bahamas Cruises: Cruise to Bahamas | Norwegian Cruise Line Heres everything you need to know before your GSC visit. 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. I was looking at some itineraries, and when do the ships stop there?? The new Silver Cove gated area is secluded at the far end of the cay, away from the main beach. The pigs arent on GSC itself, but on nearby Treasure Island. Tenders run continually throughout the day so you can come and go from the island whenever you want. All cabanas feature a sofa and several chairs, and a small patio. Enjoy a good swim or just float around on a float-pad (available for $16 for the day) from one of the shacks offering equipment rentals. When the stingrays approach, you will have an opportunity to pet, feed and have a photo taken with these majestic creatures. It will list times and the location where you can pick up tender tickets. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, What's Not Included With a Great Stirrup Cay Cabana Rental, How to Book a Cabana on Great Stirrup Cay, What to Expect on a Cruise: Drink Packages on Cruises, 11 Reasons to Take Your Family on a P&O Cruise, Half Moon Cay vs. CocoCay: What These Cruise Line Private Islands Offer Cruisers, Harvest Caye Cabanas: 8 Reasons They're Worth a Splurge. Soar Across Great Stirrup Cay. You will have a brief safety instruction session before going into the shallow waters within a cove. Everything to Know About Norwegians Free At Sea Sale, What to Do on a Cruise? However, I think that is for only guests renting the cabana. Im so glad youre here! This is beneficial, as there can be up to two ships that visit per day, which is common during the summer months. Unwind on white-sand beaches and enjoy the many ways to explore paradise. Your ships signal doesnt reach the island. This includes all bars, lounges, restaurants, and the brand's private island of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This 90-minute guided tour will take you to the home of huge southern stingrays. If you dont mind being a little farther away from most amenities, keep walking and youll find Cabana Beach and then Fiesta Beach. You'll also discover that sometimes there will be a separate line for Suite or Haven guests to board the tenders when returning to the ship. Youll be able to fit a cell phone, cash, and your license inside while you enjoy the water. At that time, when youre ready to go to Great Stirrup Cay, just walk down to the gangway deck and climb aboard the tender. Theres plenty to eat on Great Stirrup Cay, so you dont really need to bring snacks. If youre looking for some beachy thrills, sign up for a zip-line adventure. Since the island is uninhabited, your only options for shore excursions are those you book through the cruise line. The final zip is 600 feet long and carries you from a height of 75 feet back to ground level. 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. Great Stirrup Cay is in the Bahamas archipelago. Thats a day where you dont get the full potential of the package despite having to pay for the service. However, Norwegian is always updating the island and expanding its attractions, so perhaps a pool will make an appearance someday in the future. Erica Silverstein is a cruise and family travel expert, who has been covering the industry for more than 15 years. There arent any lockers available on the island for passengers to secure their valuables. There are also a number of amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and a shuttle to take you back and forth from the tender ship dock. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. What Is a Cabana on a Cruise Ship or Private Island? Your must-haves for Great Stirrup Cay are pretty basic: I also recommend a few extras to make your day on the island more fun and comfortable: Remember when youre packing your beach bag to double-check that youve packed everything youll need for the day. You'll be close to the lagoon area, a part of the island currently under construction. Winds were too calm, so they were forced to stop at the nearest island, Great Stirrup Cay. When you leave the ship you will scan your card so that crew knows who is on and off the ship. Jump to content. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Great Stirrup Cay. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. When I was researching the little cemetery, I learned that when Elizabeth's husband buried her on the island he met two men of African descent, assumed to be former slaves, living on the island. This lighthouse was originally constructed in 1863 by theBritish Imperial Lighthouse Service. 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. Lagoon Villas start at $799 and accommodate eight guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $49 each. The middle beach, known as Cabana Beach, has private cabanas for rent on a raised, hilly area on the beach. Here is a complete map of the island, provided from NCL: Norwegians island sits in a chain of islands called the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. Your Guide to Great Stirrup Cay Cabanas - Cruise Critic I believe that there is not, but not sure. They can still enjoy the rest of the ship but also have their own little spot. 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. Wondering what more there is to do than hang out on the beach or zipline? What is Norwegian Cruise Lines largest ship? Welcome to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic private island paradise exclusive to Norwegian guests. I love the idea of a private island. The journey is about a mile each way, and you might even spot some local wildlife, including iguanas and hummingbirds on your walk. Worth Reading: Disneys Castaway Cay, Bahamas: What You Need to Know. The tiny cemetery is located in a grassy area across from the main beach. It has barbecue food, salads, ribs, chicken and corn-on-the-cob. Youll want to bring all your beach day gear, including: Towels are provided on island, so you do not need to bring your own from the ship. Inside the exclusive (and expensive) new beach retreat on this cruise Catamaran & Snorkel ($79/$59 kids): A double-decker, covered snorkel boat will take you to a live coral reef where you can swim with native fish and marine life. On Norwegian cruise ships, guests looking for luxury have The Haven an exclusive part of the ship that separate from the rest of their guests. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with exotic fish, or just stroll the white sand beaches. You can rent clam shells or beach umbrellas for shade. Bertram Beach is is the busiest beach and has complimentary beach loungers and hammocks under the scattered palm trees. Unlike the cabanas, villas are fully enclosed, air-conditioned day rooms, with a sliding glass door to let in the breeze and a TV with complimentary on-demand movies. If you want to be sure of the best spots in shady areas, you need to arrive early or rent a clamshell (around $30 per day) to keep out of the sun. Also located here is the grave of Elizabeth Hixson (1813-1838), a young woman from Virginia who was traveling by sea with her husband and daughter. All you have to do is look for the teal buildings. Traveling with a guest who has celiac and want to know what choices might be available that are safe to eat. That means you can enjoy a relaxing day with no worriesabout aggressive vendors or sharing the sand with a bunch of strangers. For something different, belly up to the Abaco Taco bar for Mexican food made to order. Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-leader-3','ezslot_16',605,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-leader-3-0');Cruisers visiting Great Stirrup Cay for the day have a range of activities to choose from, and the island offers something for every activity level and budget. Behind the cabana, you'll find four floating mats for complimentary all-day use in the ocean and a private shower to rinse off, as well as your very own hammock. It also comes with four floating mats and bottled water. With any villa rental, youll also have access to the exclusive Silver Cove Restaurant and Bar, the Mot Bar, as well as the private beach at Silver Cove Lagoon (with its new overwater swings). Norwegian Cruise Line is the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its passengers. The first zip-line is 100 feet long, but its also the highest and scariest. Didn't book early enough? Finally, the Tropic Like Its Hot Food Truck has tasty Bahamian-style sandwiches including Mahi Mahi and BBQ pulled Pork as well as ceviche and spicy chicken. Book snorkel equipment from Susans Rock Snorkel Center for the day ($30 for adults and $15 for children) and snorkel at this beautiful spot as much as you want. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, the 250-acre Great Stirrup Cay is an exclusive destination for NCL passengers. The main beach area is the easternmost section of the islands developed area and closest to the tender pier. Seahawk Zipline ($89/$69 kids) This zipline also offers three flights, but theyre a bit more challenging. And lastly, remember to wear good water shoes. The ride takes about 10 minutes to get between the island and where the ship is anchored offshore. It is home to a lush coconut plantation, an automated lighthouse (built-in 1863), white sandy beaches, crystal clear ocean waters, and a wide variety of marine life. Everything Great Stirrup Cay - Silver Cove (Villa's, Lagoon, Spa Let me know in the comments below! ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Live music with a Caribbean flair is played by local musicians at the bandstand directly across from the main beach at Bertrams Cove. They also offer desserts: rum cake and coconut fudge bars. Having it work on Great Stirrup Cay means you are better able to get your moneys worth. The island looks beautiful! Here are the Great Stirrup Cay shore excursions for 2023: Wave Runner Tour (from $139): This 45-minute personal watercraft tour through the Berry Islands will let you see area highlights like the Lighthouse at Great Stirrup Cay, Slaughter Harbor, and the abandoned island community of Cistern Cay. Im seeing 10 to 15% jumps in pricing for shore excursions in just the past six monthsand thats after the usual annual increases. 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. Great Stirrup Cay is situated in the Bahamas and is included in a number of itineraries for Norwegian Cruise Line. The temperature averages a very pleasant 77F all year round. Her articles have appeared on Cruise Critic, Porthole, TravelAge West, and USA Today. You have entered an incorrect email address! This unforgettable stingray encounter will cost $69 for an adult and $49 for a child.. Take a 2 hour Kayaking Tour around Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The only people allowed on the island are Norwegian passengers and staff. Animals: Variety of lizards, land crabs, iguanas,. Want to really get away from the crowds? But did you know theres a real lighthouse on the island as well? The only exception is that there is a small straw market of local vendors selling souvenirs. Additionally, shouldbecruising.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes receive a commission from purchases made through our links. Where is Great Stirrup Cay Located? Dont forget to check out these resources before your Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line: Have you visited Great Stirrup Cay on a Norwegian cruise? Was looking though and wondering if the studio villa would be better. 30 Things to Know About Perfect Day at CocoCay Bahamas (2023) - Cruise Hive Perched on a raised area of the beach they catch gentle breezes and offer stunning sea views. 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. Great Stirrup Cay, just like most cruise stops in the Caribbean, enjoys a warm tropical temperature throughout the year. If you have a shore excursion that departs from the dock on the south side of the island, shuttles will take you to and from that location. A Classic Cabana is priced from $425 (all pricing is itinerary dependent) and accommodates up to six guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $25 each. Age and weight restrictions do apply, and cruisers need to wear closed-toe shoes to participate. Today, Norwegian Cruise Line actually operates a couple, including Harvest Caye in the Caribbean and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Villas also come with a full bathroom with shower and a private patio decked out with padded loungers. There are limited loungers in a shady area under the trees, but they go fast! This helps them stand out from the rest of the island. If you have a WiFi package on board the ship, you wont be able to use it on Great Stirrup Cay. Guests who book a villa or a Mandara Spa treatment on the island have access to an additional complimentary restaurant. CocoCay is literally the next island over and you can see it right from the ship. GSC Villas sell out early because people want that luxury experienceand there are lots of us with pandemic cruise credits looking for a way to redeem our missed vacations. As of 2023, there are 14 ships featuring itineraries that include Great Stirrup Cay: When I first published this post about Great Stirrup Cay in 2020 (yup, I actually cruised to GSC in mid-February 2020 right before the world shut down) I planned to update the info about Great Stirrup Cay I had gathered for my readers about once a year. Other activities to look forward to include renting a stand-up paddle-board at US$25 for an hour. 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. Weve put together everything to know about the island. This applies even at Tender ports. Catching up with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection - What's it Like On Board Evrima? 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. Hope to visit it one day. Great Stirrup Cay - Norwegian Cruise Line - Cruise Critic Community Currently, there are three dining options available to all guests on the island. GSC doesnt offer WiFi, but there is a cell tower. Both cabana styles offer complimentary bottled water as well as up to four free-floating mats. Pricing for most of their excursions falls within the range of $75-$140/adult and $55-$99/child. Norwegian employs staff members that resides on the island to prepare for ship visits. The British Navy captain, commander of HMS Tweed, asked to be buried here facing the beach that he loved. Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide, Everything about Norwegian Cruise Internet: Speed Test, Cost, and More, 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of), Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Secrets, Tricks, and Freebies, Full Ships! The main attraction at Great Stirrup Cay are three powder-soft white sandy beaches. It's also about 60 miles north of Nassau. These villas offers the same amenities as the one-bedroom versions. 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. Vegetarian main dishes are limited on the island, and cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed if youre concerned about gluten, nuts, or other allergens. Best of all, they are free. Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesnt run the bazaar, you wont be able to use your cruise card here. Does NCL own Great Stirrup Cay? About to head to Norwegian Cruise Lines Great Stirrup Cay? Cruising The Haven & Suites: Perks and Details (Part 2) - NCL Great Stirrup Cay doesnt yet have a pier for ships to dock at, so your ship will anchor offshore. Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It? Additional water equipment beyond the floating mats (such as snorkeling masks or stand-up paddle-boards), as well as beach umbrellas or shaded clamshell-style beach loungers, must be rented for an additional charge. Youll no doubt see the new replica lighthouse that NCL uses for ziplining, since its in a very central location.