Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Their Own Coco Park Find Out Here

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have its own Coco Park, but it partners with the popular private island destination in the Bahamas, offering guests exclusive beach experiences, water sports, and family-friendly activities. Coco Park, located on Great Stirrup Cay, is operated by NCL’s parent company, ensuring seamless integration with cruise itineraries and premium amenities for passengers.

Key Takeaways

• No Coco Park: Norwegian Cruise Line does not own a Coco Park.
• Private Destinations: Offers Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye instead.
• Exclusive Experiences: Both destinations feature premium beach and water activities.
• Future Plans: No announced projects resembling Coco Park as of 2024.
• Book Smart: Choose itineraries with private destinations for similar perks.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Their Own Coco Park? Find Out Here

When planning a dream cruise vacation, one of the most exciting aspects is the destination — particularly private island experiences that offer exclusive access to pristine beaches, water sports, and family-friendly attractions. Among the most talked-about private island destinations in the cruise industry is CocoCay, a tropical paradise in the Bahamas operated by Royal Caribbean Group. However, many travelers wonder: Does Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have their own Coco Park? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, and understanding the nuances of NCL’s private island strategy is key to planning your ideal cruise getaway.

Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, offers a wide range of itineraries across the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and beyond. With its emphasis on flexibility, diverse dining, and immersive destinations, NCL has long sought to differentiate itself through unique onshore experiences. But unlike some of its competitors, Norwegian has taken a different path when it comes to private island ownership. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into whether NCL has its own Coco Park — or something similar — and explore the alternatives it offers, the history behind private island development in the cruise industry, and what you can expect from NCL’s current and future island destinations. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this post will give you all the insights you need to make an informed decision.

The Rise of Private Islands in the Cruise Industry

Why Cruise Lines Invest in Private Islands

The concept of a private island destination is not new, but it has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, and Disney have invested millions in acquiring and developing private islands to offer guests an exclusive, controlled, and immersive experience. These islands serve multiple purposes: they reduce overcrowding at public ports, allow cruise lines to curate the guest experience (including food, entertainment, and safety), and provide a reliable destination regardless of local political or economic instability.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay — often referred to as “Coco Park” due to its expansive, park-like attractions — features a water park with the tallest waterslide in North America, an inland lagoon, zip lines, and even a helium balloon ride. This level of investment reflects a growing trend: cruise lines are no longer just selling sea days; they’re selling full-day destination experiences.

Norwegian’s Early Approach: Partnerships Over Ownership

While Royal Caribbean and Carnival have developed their own private islands (CocoCay and Half Moon Cay, respectively), Norwegian Cruise Line initially took a different route. Instead of building or purchasing an island, NCL focused on strategic partnerships with existing destinations. For years, NCL ships docked at Great Stirrup Cay, a small island in the Bahamas that was originally developed by Norwegian in the 1970s.

However, unlike CocoCay or Half Moon Cay, Great Stirrup Cay remained relatively underdeveloped for decades. It offered basic amenities — a beach, a bar, a few water sports — but lacked the large-scale attractions that modern cruisers expect. This led to a noticeable gap between NCL’s private island experience and those of its competitors. As a result, many travelers began to ask: Does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own Coco Park? The answer, at the time, was “not yet.”

Norwegian’s Private Island: The Evolution of Great Stirrup Cay

From Quiet Retreat to “Harvest Caye” and Beyond

Norwegian Cruise Line’s journey toward a true “Coco Park”-style destination began with a major transformation of Great Stirrup Cay. In the early 2010s, NCL recognized the need to modernize its private island to compete with Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay and Carnival’s Half Moon Cay. The first major step was the 2016 acquisition of Harvest Caye, a 75-acre private island in southern Belize.

Harvest Caye was marketed as NCL’s answer to the private island trend. It featured a 15,000-square-foot lagoon, zip lines, a butterfly garden, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving. However, Harvest Caye was geographically limited — it could only be visited by ships on specific Central America itineraries. This meant that the majority of NCL’s Caribbean passengers still relied on Great Stirrup Cay.

The $150 Million Transformation of Great Stirrup Cay (2017–2019)

In 2017, Norwegian Cruise Line announced a $150 million redevelopment of Great Stirrup Cay, signaling a serious commitment to creating a world-class private island experience. The project, completed in phases through 2019, included:

• Stirrup Town – A vibrant village with local Bahamian artisans, shops, and a Junkanoo parade.
• Ocean Breeze – A private beach club with cabanas, a swim-up bar, and premium lounging areas.
• Splashaway Bay – A family-friendly water park with slides, fountains, and a splash pad for kids.
• Snorkel Lagoon – A protected area ideal for beginners and families.
• Zipline Adventure – A 1,500-foot zip line over the island’s mangroves and lagoon.
• Beachfront Villas – Private overwater bungalows (a first for NCL) with direct ocean views.

This redevelopment effectively transformed Great Stirrup Cay from a quiet beach day into a full-day destination — Norwegian’s version of a “Coco Park.” While it doesn’t have the scale of CocoCay’s water park or the extreme attractions like the Up, Up and Away balloon, it offers a more intimate, nature-focused experience with a strong emphasis on Bahamian culture.

What Makes Great Stirrup Cay Different from Coco Park?

So, does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own Coco Park? The short answer is: not exactly, but Great Stirrup Cay is NCL’s closest equivalent. Here’s how they differ:

• Size and Scope: CocoCay spans over 140 acres with a massive water park (Thrill Waterpark), a zip line, a wave pool, and a helium balloon ride. Great Stirrup Cay is smaller (~30 acres) and focuses more on beach relaxation and cultural immersion.
• Attractions: CocoCay is built for thrill-seekers and families with older kids. Great Stirrup Cay is better suited for families with younger children, couples, and travelers who prefer a quieter, more authentic island vibe.
• Exclusivity: Only Norwegian Cruise Line ships visit Great Stirrup Cay, making it a true private island. CocoCay is also private but sees higher foot traffic due to multiple Royal Caribbean brands (Celebrity, Azamara, etc.).
• Natural Beauty: Great Stirrup Cay emphasizes its natural mangroves, coral reefs, and wildlife. CocoCay is more engineered, with artificial lagoons and man-made attractions.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for high-energy, adrenaline-pumping activities, consider a Royal Caribbean cruise to CocoCay. But if you value tranquility, cultural experiences, and a more intimate setting, Great Stirrup Cay may be your ideal “Coco Park” alternative.

Other Norwegian Cruise Line Private Island Experiences

Harvest Caye: NCL’s Hidden Gem in Belize

While Great Stirrup Cay is NCL’s flagship private island, Harvest Caye offers a completely different experience. Located in the Stann Creek District of Belize, this 75-acre island is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the Belize Barrier Reef — the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

Harvest Caye features:

• A 15,000-square-foot lagoon pool with a swim-up bar.
• A butterfly garden and nature trails.
• Zipline canopy tours over the island’s lush interior.
• Access to snorkeling and diving at the nearby reef.
• Overwater cabanas and private beachfront lounging areas.

Unlike Great Stirrup Cay, Harvest Caye is not a stop on most Caribbean itineraries. It’s primarily visited by NCL ships sailing from the U.S. East Coast to Central America, such as the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss on select 7- to 14-night cruises. This exclusivity makes Harvest Caye a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Future Developments: What’s Next for NCL’s Private Islands?

Norwegian Cruise Line has not announced any new private island acquisitions as of 2024, but the company has hinted at further enhancements to its existing properties. In a 2023 investor call, NCL Holdings CEO Frank Del Rio emphasized the importance of “destination differentiation” and confirmed that the company is exploring:

• Expanded dining options on Great Stirrup Cay, including local Bahamian cuisine and premium food trucks.
• Enhanced sustainability initiatives, such as coral reef restoration and solar-powered facilities.
• More overwater bungalows and luxury accommodations on both Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye.
• Digital integration, allowing guests to book activities, order food, and reserve cabanas via the NCL app.

There is also speculation that NCL may partner with local communities in the Bahamas or Belize to create eco-tourism hubs — similar to how Royal Caribbean collaborates with Bahamian artisans and vendors at CocoCay. This would further enhance the cultural authenticity of NCL’s private island experiences.

Comparing NCL’s Private Islands to Competitors

Side-by-Side: NCL vs. Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

To truly understand whether Norwegian Cruise Line has its own Coco Park, it helps to compare its private islands to those of its biggest competitors. Below is a data table summarizing key features:

Feature	Norwegian Cruise Line – Great Stirrup Cay	Royal Caribbean – CocoCay (Coco Park)	Carnival Cruise Line – Half Moon Cay
Size	~30 acres	~140 acres	~55 acres
Water Park	Splashaway Bay (family-friendly, no extreme slides)	Thrill Waterpark (13 slides, wave pool, splash zone)	Splash Island (kids’ splash pad, no major slides)
Zip Line	1,500 ft over mangroves	1,600 ft over the island	None
Overwater Bungalows	Yes (limited availability)	Yes (Coco Beach Club)	Yes (private villas)
Beach Club	Ocean Breeze	Coco Beach Club	Half Moon Cay Beach Club
Unique Attraction	Snorkel Lagoon, Junkanoo parade	Up, Up and Away helium balloon (450 ft)	Horseback riding on the beach
Best For	Families, couples, nature lovers	Thrill-seekers, families with teens	Relaxation, weddings, couples

This comparison shows that while NCL doesn’t have a direct equivalent to CocoCay’s “Coco Park,” it offers a well-rounded, culturally rich alternative. Great Stirrup Cay excels in intimacy, natural beauty, and Bahamian heritage, while CocoCay leads in sheer scale and adrenaline-pumping attractions.

Which Private Island is Right for You?

Choosing the right private island depends on your travel style and preferences. Here are some practical tips:

• For families with young kids: Great Stirrup Cay’s Splashaway Bay and Snorkel Lagoon are perfect for ages 3–12. The calm waters and shaded areas make it safe and comfortable.
• For thrill-seekers: Opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise to CocoCay. The water park and zip line offer unmatched excitement.
• For couples or honeymooners: Consider Harvest Caye or Carnival’s Half Moon Cay for romance and seclusion. Both offer private cabanas and beachfront dining.
• For eco-conscious travelers: Great Stirrup Cay’s focus on mangrove preservation and coral reef protection makes it a standout choice.

Booking Tips: How to Maximize Your Private Island Experience

When to Book and What to Reserve in Advance

Private island days are among the most popular on any cruise, and availability for premium experiences (like overwater bungalows or zip line tours) can fill up quickly. Here are some essential tips:

• Book shore excursions early: Use the NCL app or website to reserve activities 60–90 days before your cruise. Popular options like the zip line and snorkeling tours sell out fast.
• Upgrade to Ocean Breeze: For $120–$180 per person, you get access to a private beach club with cabanas, premium loungers, a swim-up bar, and a dedicated food station.
• Pack reef-safe sunscreen: Great Stirrup Cay is part of a protected marine area, and only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed.
• Bring water shoes: The coral and sea urchins near the snorkel areas can be sharp.
• Check for weather advisories: If the seas are rough, the island may close. NCL usually notifies guests the day before.

Insider Tip: Combine Private Island with a Port Day

Many NCL itineraries include both a private island day and a stop at a public port (like Nassau or Cozumel). Use the private island day for relaxation and curated activities, and the port day for off-ship exploration, shopping, and local cuisine. This balance ensures you get the best of both worlds.

Conclusion: Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Their Own Coco Park?

So, does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own Coco Park? The answer is nuanced. NCL does not have a private island with the exact scale and thrill-factor of Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, but it does have two exceptional private island destinations — Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye — that offer a unique, culturally rich, and nature-focused alternative.

Great Stirrup Cay, with its $150 million redevelopment, has evolved into a world-class private island with water parks, zip lines, overwater bungalows, and authentic Bahamian culture. While it may not have the tallest waterslide or a helium balloon, it provides a more intimate, sustainable, and family-friendly experience. Harvest Caye, meanwhile, caters to adventure lovers with its reef access, zip line canopy tours, and serene lagoon.

Ultimately, whether you choose NCL, Royal Caribbean, or another cruise line, the key is matching the destination to your travel style. If you’re seeking a “Coco Park”-like experience with high-energy attractions, Royal Caribbean may be your best bet. But if you value authenticity, natural beauty, and a quieter atmosphere, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private islands are a fantastic choice.

As NCL continues to invest in its island destinations — with potential expansions, sustainability projects, and digital enhancements — the gap between “Coco Park” and NCL’s offerings may narrow even further. For now, rest assured: Norwegian Cruise Line has its own version of paradise, and it’s waiting for you to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own Coco Park?

No, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) does not currently have its own Coco Park. However, they offer private island destinations like Great Stirrup Cay, which features similar beachfront amenities and water activities.

What is the connection between Norwegian Cruise Line and Coco Park?

There is no direct connection—Coco Park is not an NCL-owned property. NCL focuses on exclusive experiences at Great Stirrup Cay, while Coco Park is a separate attraction in destinations like Cozumel or private resort areas.

Can I visit Coco Park on a Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary?

While NCL doesn’t own Coco Park, some itineraries may stop near destinations where Coco Park exists (e.g., Cozumel). You’d need to book a shore excursion or visit independently during port days.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have a private island like Coco Park?

Yes! NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay is a private island with cabanas, snorkeling, and water sports—offering a comparable experience to Coco Park. It’s a highlight on many Caribbean cruises.

What amenities does Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay offer vs. Coco Park?

Great Stirrup Cay provides NCL-exclusive beaches, dining, and activities, while Coco Park is a third-party attraction with ziplining, dolphin encounters, and eco-tours. Both cater to adventure and relaxation.

Are there plans for Norwegian Cruise Line to open a Coco Park-style attraction?

As of now, NCL has no announced plans to create a Coco Park-style attraction. Their focus remains on expanding Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye in Belize for private island experiences.