Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Their Own Water Resort Find Out Here

Norwegian Cruise Line does not operate a standalone water resort, but it features extensive water parks and aquatic attractions across many of its ships, offering guests thrilling slides, splash zones, and pool decks designed for family fun at sea. These onboard water experiences rival land-based resorts, delivering resort-style relaxation and adventure without leaving the ship.

Key Takeaways

• No standalone water resort: Norwegian Cruise Line does not operate a dedicated off-ship water resort.
• Onboard water parks: Most ships feature thrilling water slides and splash zones for all ages.
• Private island access: Great Stirrup Cay offers exclusive beachfront water activities and cabanas.
• Partnerships for excursions: NCL partners with local providers for snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
• Family-friendly focus: Water attractions are designed to cater to kids, teens, and adults.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Their Own Water Resort? Find Out Here

When planning a vacation, travelers often look for destinations that combine relaxation, adventure, and luxury. For many, cruise vacations offer the perfect mix of all three. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the most popular cruise operators in the world, has long been celebrated for its freestyle cruising concept, diverse itineraries, and innovative onboard experiences. But as the cruise industry evolves, so do passenger expectations. One question that frequently arises among cruisers—especially families and water lovers—is: Does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own water resort?

The idea of a private water resort sounds like a dream—crystal-clear waters, exclusive beaches, thrilling water slides, and personalized service, all without the hassle of international travel or crowded public destinations. In recent years, several major cruise lines have invested in private islands and exclusive beach resorts to elevate the guest experience. Royal Caribbean has CocoCay, Carnival has Half Moon Cay, and Disney has Castaway Cay. So where does Norwegian Cruise Line stand in this growing trend? This blog post dives deep into NCL’s offerings, exploring whether they have a dedicated water resort, what alternatives they provide, and how they compare to competitors. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned NCL veteran, you’ll find valuable insights to help plan your next tropical getaway.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Private Island Strategy

What Is a Private Island or Water Resort?

Before we dive into NCL’s offerings, it’s important to define what constitutes a private island or water resort. In the cruise industry, a private island is a destination owned or exclusively leased by a cruise line, offering guests a secluded, curated experience. These islands typically feature white-sand beaches, water sports, dining, shopping, and family-friendly attractions. A water resort, in this context, goes a step further—it includes not just beach access but also water parks, wave pools, zip lines, and other aquatic entertainment.

These destinations are designed to enhance the cruise experience by offering a safe, controlled, and immersive environment where guests can enjoy tropical relaxation without leaving the cruise line’s ecosystem. The key benefits include:

• Exclusive access: Only cruise guests can visit, reducing crowds.
• Enhanced safety and cleanliness: Controlled environments with trained staff.
• Seamless logistics: No need for passports, visas, or complex transfers.
• Integrated experiences: Activities, dining, and shopping are all coordinated with the cruise.

NCL’s Current Private Island: Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line does own a private island: Great Stirrup Cay, located in the Berry Islands of the Bahamas. Acquired in 1977, it was one of the first private islands developed by a cruise line. Over the decades, NCL has invested heavily in transforming the 250-acre island into a tropical paradise with modern amenities and attractions.

Great Stirrup Cay is not a standalone resort in the traditional sense—it’s an exclusive port of call for NCL ships. When a ship docks, guests are tendered (shuttled by small boat) to the island, where they can spend the day enjoying beaches, water sports, dining, and entertainment. The island is designed to complement the cruise experience, not serve as a separate vacation destination.

Key features of Great Stirrup Cay include:

• Over 1,000 feet of white-sand beach with lounge chairs and cabanas
• Snorkeling zones with coral reefs and tropical fish
• Water sports: jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding
• Open-air restaurants and bars (e.g., the Bahamian-style Stirrup’s Bar & Grill)
• Nature trails and observation decks
• Family-friendly zones with shaded areas and kid-safe swimming

While Great Stirrup Cay offers many resort-like features, it lacks some key elements of a full water resort—such as water slides, wave pools, or overnight accommodations. This distinction is crucial when comparing NCL to competitors.

How Great Stirrup Cay Compares to Competitor Water Resorts

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean International has set a high bar with Perfect Day at CocoCay, a $250 million transformation of its private island in the Bahamas. Opened in 2019, CocoCay is often described as a water resort rather than just a private island. It features:

• Thrill Waterpark: Home to the tallest waterslide in North America (135-foot Daredevil’s Peak), a wave pool, and a family raft ride
• Oasis Lagoon: A massive freshwater pool with swim-up bars and cabanas
• Up, Up and Away: A helium balloon ride offering panoramic views
• Chill Island: A serene beach area for relaxation
• Overnight accommodations: Cabanas with private pools and butler service (for an additional fee)

CocoCay is designed to appeal to thrill-seekers and families alike, with a strong emphasis on water-based entertainment. It’s a full-day destination that rivals many land-based water parks.

Carnival’s Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays

Carnival Cruise Line’s Half Moon Cay is another top-tier private island. While it doesn’t have a water park, it offers a more natural, eco-friendly experience with pristine beaches, horseback riding, and a nature preserve. Princess Cruises’ Princess Cays on Eleuthera Island is similar—focused on relaxation, water sports, and Bahamian culture rather than high-thrill attractions.

Disney’s Castaway Cay

Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay blends Disney magic with tropical charm. It includes:

• A family beach with shallow waters and character meet-and-greets
• An adult-only beach with a swim-up bar
• Snorkeling trails with underwater sculptures
• Water sports and bike rentals
• Exclusive cabanas with concierge service

While not a water park, Castaway Cay excels in themed experiences and family-friendly amenities.

Where NCL Stands in the Comparison

When compared to these destinations, Great Stirrup Cay is more of a traditional private island than a water resort. It excels in relaxation, natural beauty, and water sports but lacks the high-thrill water park attractions found at CocoCay or the immersive theming of Castaway Cay. However, NCL has made recent upgrades to close the gap.

In 2017, NCL completed a $50 million renovation of Great Stirrup Cay, adding:

• Stirrup Cay Beach Club: An exclusive area with private cabanas, a pool, and premium food and drink service (available for an additional fee)
• New dining venues: Including a conch fritter stand and a Bahamian-style grill
• Enhanced water sports center: With improved equipment and instruction
• Nature trails and observation platforms: For eco-tourism enthusiasts

While these upgrades enhance the experience, they don’t transform the island into a full water resort. The absence of water slides, wave pools, or zip lines means NCL still lags behind Royal Caribbean in this niche.

NCL’s Onboard Water Parks and Aquatic Features

Water Slides and Pools on NCL Ships

If Great Stirrup Cay doesn’t offer the water park thrills of CocoCay, does NCL make up for it onboard? The answer is a resounding yes—especially on their newer ships. Norwegian Cruise Line has invested heavily in onboard water attractions to keep guests entertained at sea.

Starting with the Norwegian Escape (2015), NCL introduced the first-ever water park at sea with multiple slides. Since then, most of their Breakaway Plus-class and newer vessels feature expansive water complexes. For example:

• Norwegian Encore (2019): Home to the Aqua Park with three multi-story water slides:
  • Ocean Loops: A free-fall slide with a 200-foot drop
  • Free Fall: A near-vertical slide with a trapdoor start
  • Spinning Slide: A twisting, spiraling ride
• Norwegian Joy (2017): Features a two-level Aqua Park with a family raft ride and a bowl slide
• Norwegian Bliss (2018): Boasts a 10-deck-high Aqua Park with a racing slide and a family raft ride

These water parks are open during sea days and select port days, offering guests a chance to enjoy aquatic thrills without leaving the ship. The slides are designed for various age groups, with height requirements and safety measures in place.

Additional Aquatic Amenities

Beyond slides, NCL ships offer a range of water-based amenities:

• Main pools: Typically two or three large pools with swim-up bars and lounge areas
• Kids’ splash zones: Shallow pools with water toys, fountains, and mini-slides
• Hot tubs and whirlpools: Often located near the pool decks
• Lazy river (on select ships): Norwegian Joy features a 100-foot-long lazy river with a gentle current
• Infinity pools: Found on newer ships like Norwegian Prima, offering panoramic ocean views

These features ensure that even without a dedicated water resort, NCL guests can enjoy a resort-like aquatic experience throughout their cruise.

Comparing Onboard vs. On-Island Water Experiences

There are pros and cons to each approach:

• Onboard water parks:
  • Pros: Accessible every sea day, no extra cost (slides are included), open even during bad weather (with modifications)
  • Cons: Limited space, can get crowded, less natural environment
• On-island water resorts:
  • Pros: Natural setting, more space, unique attractions (e.g., CocoCay’s wave pool)
  • Cons: Only accessible on select itineraries, weather-dependent, may require additional fees

NCL’s strategy combines both: onboard water parks for daily fun and Great Stirrup Cay for a tropical beach day. This hybrid model appeals to a broad range of travelers.

Future Plans: Will NCL Build a Water Resort?

NCL’s Recent Investments and Announcements

Given the success of CocoCay and the growing demand for immersive water experiences, many industry watchers wonder: Will Norwegian Cruise Line build a full water resort? While NCL hasn’t announced a CocoCay-style project yet, there are signs they’re considering it.

In 2023, NCL’s parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), reported record revenue and strong demand for private destination experiences. During an investor call, CEO Harry Sommer stated, “We are actively evaluating opportunities to expand our destination portfolio, including potential enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay.”

Possible future developments could include:

• Adding water slides or a wave pool to Great Stirrup Cay
• Developing a second private island in the Caribbean or Mexico
• Partnering with a resort developer to create a hybrid cruise-resort destination
• Expanding the Beach Club concept with more premium amenities

Challenges and Considerations

Building a water resort is no small feat. Key challenges include:

• Environmental impact: The Bahamas has strict regulations to protect marine ecosystems. Any construction must comply with sustainability standards.
• Logistics: Water parks require significant infrastructure (pumps, filtration, power) that’s difficult to install on remote islands.
• Cost: A CocoCay-level investment ($250M+) is a major financial commitment.
• Demand: NCL must ensure enough itineraries include the island to justify the investment.

However, with NCL’s growing fleet of large ships (e.g., Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva), the demand for exclusive destinations is increasing. A water resort could become a key differentiator.

What Cruisers Want

Surveys and social media chatter suggest that NCL guests are interested in more water-based attractions. A 2022 survey by Cruise Critic found that 68% of families prefer itineraries with water park stops. Additionally, NCL’s own guest feedback highlights requests for “more slides” and “a bigger beach club.”

If NCL does build a water resort, it will likely focus on:

• Family-friendly design: With slides suitable for all ages
• Premium experiences: Like cabanas, private pools, and VIP areas
• Sustainability: Using solar power, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly materials

Maximizing Your Water Experience on an NCL Cruise

Tips for Enjoying Great Stirrup Cay

Even without a water park, Great Stirrup Cay offers plenty of ways to enjoy the water. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

• Arrive early: Tenders start running at 9:00 AM. Get on the first one to secure a good beach spot.
• Rent a cabana: The Stirrup Cay Beach Club cabanas offer shade, privacy, and a personal attendant. Book in advance—they sell out fast.
• Try the water sports: Jet skiing and parasailing are thrilling ways to experience the island. Book through the NCL app before the cruise.
• Snorkel the reef: The snorkeling zones are free and well-marked. Bring your own gear or rent on-site.
• Pack essentials: Sunscreen, water shoes, and a towel (the ship’s towels are usually collected before tendering).

Onboard Water Park Strategies

To avoid crowds and maximize fun:

• Visit on sea days: The water park is less crowded in the morning and late afternoon.
• Use the NCL app: Check wait times for slides and book water sports in advance.
• Bring a change of clothes: The slides can get you soaking wet!
• Try all the slides: Each one offers a unique experience. Don’t miss the Free Fall on Encore—it’s a heart-pounding drop.

Combining Both Experiences

For the ultimate water vacation, choose an itinerary that includes:

• A stop at Great Stirrup Cay
• At least one sea day on a ship with a water park (e.g., Norwegian Encore, Joy, or Bliss)
• A private cabana reservation on the island

This combo gives you the best of both worlds: natural beauty and high-thrill fun.

Data Table: NCL vs. Competitor Water Experiences

Feature	Norwegian Cruise Line	Royal Caribbean	Carnival Cruise Line	Disney Cruise Line
Private Island	Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas)	Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas)	Half Moon Cay (Bahamas)	Castaway Cay (Bahamas)
Water Park	No (on-island)	Yes (Thrill Waterpark)	No	No
Wave Pool	No	Yes (Oasis Lagoon)	No	No
Onboard Water Slides	Yes (3+ on Breakaway Plus ships)	Yes (3+ on Oasis-class ships)	Yes (1-2 on newer ships)	Yes (1-2 on Dream-class ships)
Exclusive Cabanas	Yes (Beach Club)	Yes (Coco Cabanas)	Yes (Beach Villas)	Yes (Castaway Club Cabanas)
Family-Friendly Attractions	Snorkeling, water sports	Splashaway Bay, kids’ slides	Nature trails, water sports	Character meet-and-greets, kids’ beach
Overnight Stays	No	Yes (for cabana guests)	No	No

Conclusion: The Verdict on NCL’s Water Resort Status

So, does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own water resort? The answer is not exactly—but they’re getting closer. While NCL owns and operates Great Stirrup Cay, a beautiful private island with beachfront relaxation and water sports, it lacks the high-thrill water park attractions found at Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay. However, NCL compensates with world-class onboard water parks on many of its ships, offering guests daily access to slides, pools, and aquatic fun.

The future looks promising. With strong financial performance and growing demand for exclusive destinations, NCL is well-positioned to expand Great Stirrup Cay or even develop a new water resort. Whether through slides on an island or slides at sea, NCL continues to deliver memorable water experiences that cater to families, thrill-seekers, and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

For now, cruisers can enjoy the best of both worlds: a tropical beach day at Great Stirrup Cay and adrenaline-pumping slides on the ship. As NCL evolves, one thing is clear—their commitment to water-based entertainment is stronger than ever. So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to dive into the fun. Your perfect water vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line is just a booking away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have their own water resort?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) does not operate a standalone water resort, but it features extensive water parks and splash zones on many of its ships. These onboard aquatic attractions rival traditional water resorts with thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and kids’ splash areas.

Which NCL ships have the best water resort-style amenities?

Ships like the Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Escape boast multi-story water parks, including the Aqua Racer slide and the largest racetrack at sea. These ships offer a water resort experience while at sea, complete with pools, hot tubs, and wave riders.

Is there a private island with a water resort for Norwegian Cruise Line guests?

NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, features upgraded water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and the new Silver Cove lagoon. While not a full water resort, it offers exclusive beachfront cabanas and water sports for a resort-like feel.

Does NCL’s water resort experience include kid-friendly options?

Yes, NCL’s ships have dedicated kids’ splash zones, shallow pools, and interactive water features designed for younger guests. Themed water play areas and family-friendly slides ensure a water resort experience for all ages.

Are NCL’s onboard water resort areas included in the cruise fare?

Access to most pools, slides, and water features is included in your cruise fare. However, premium experiences like private cabanas or specialty water sports may require an additional fee.

How does NCL’s water resort compare to other cruise lines?

NCL stands out with its high-energy water parks and innovative slides, like the tandem Aqua Racer. While not a land-based resort, its onboard aquatic offerings compete with top cruise line water attractions, blending relaxation and adrenaline.