Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced a significant change to its beverage policy for its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. Starting March 1, 2026, the cruise line's onboard drink packages will no longer be valid for use on the island. The company stated this policy update is connected to a major enhancement project currently underway at the destination.
Key Takeaways
- Beginning March 1, 2026, NCL's ship-based beverage packages will not apply on Great Stirrup Cay.
- A new, island-exclusive beverage package will be available for purchase starting January 1, 2026.
- The policy change coincides with a large-scale renovation of the island, including a new pier and waterpark.
- Complimentary drinks such as water, iced tea, and juices will continue to be available to all guests on the island.
Details of the Beverage Policy Update
Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed the upcoming policy shift in an operational update sent directly to passengers. The change means that guests who purchase an onboard beverage package, such as the Unlimited Open Bar, will need to pay for alcoholic drinks separately while visiting Great Stirrup Cay.
To accommodate this change, NCL will introduce a new beverage package designed specifically for the island. While full details and pricing have not yet been released, the cruise line indicated that guests can begin purchasing this new package on January 1, 2026, ahead of the policy's implementation in March.
It is important to note that not all drinks will require payment. NCL clarified that complimentary beverage options will remain. Guests can still get water, iced tea, and various juices at no extra cost using their ship key card.
Background on Cruise Line Private Islands
Private islands have become a staple of Caribbean and Bahamian cruise itineraries. These destinations, owned and operated by the cruise lines, offer a controlled and exclusive beach day experience. Policies regarding onboard packages often vary between cruise lines, with some extending benefits to their islands and others treating them as separate venues.
Policy Change Linked to Major Island Transformation
According to a Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson, the decision to alter the beverage policy is directly tied to a substantial investment in upgrading the island's infrastructure and amenities. The company is positioning the change as part of a larger effort to redefine the guest experience at Great Stirrup Cay.
"We are committed to providing the best vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and in the destinations we visit," the NCL spokesperson said. "As we look to transform the on-island experience, we have evaluated our policies and made the decision that shipboard beverage packages will no longer be applicable for drinks on Great Stirrup Cay."
The planned enhancements are extensive. The project includes the construction of a new pier, which will allow ships to dock directly, eliminating the need for tender boats. This is a significant logistical improvement for guest convenience and accessibility.
Other major additions include an expansive new pool area with complimentary loungers and a splash pad for children. These features are expected to be rolled out starting late 2025.
Coming in 2026: Great Tides Waterpark
The centerpiece of the island's transformation is the all-new Great Tides Waterpark, scheduled to open in the summer of 2026. The park will feature 19 different waterslides, a dynamic river attraction, and other family-friendly activities.
Industry Precedent and Passenger Reactions
The move by NCL is not without precedent in the cruise industry. Other major cruise lines have similar policies for their private destinations. For example, Carnival Cruise Line does not typically extend its CHEERS! beverage package to its private island, Half Moon Cay, or its private destination, Princess Cays.
The announcement has generated a wide range of responses from NCL passengers. On online forums like Cruise Critic, travelers expressed varied opinions on the change.
Passenger Frustration
Some guests expressed frustration, viewing the change as another reduction in value. One user wrote, "Drink package is no longer accepted at GSC. BUT they are going to offer another drink package for purchase... So tired of their changes."
Another commenter stated their intention to change their habits due to the new rule: "I will never pay extra for drinks on their islands, I will either stay on the ship or fill my giant tumbler with multiple cocktails and take it with." This sentiment was echoed by others who suggested they would simply stay on the ship on port days at Great Stirrup Cay.
Understanding and Acceptance
However, other passengers were more understanding of the business decision. One community member pointed out, "Every business must constantly adjust what products they provide and the costs of providing those products or they will go out of business."
Another frequent cruiser noted the similarity to competitor policies, writing, "I'm not surprised given a lot of other islands/destinations aren't including the drink package." This perspective suggests that for some seasoned travelers, the change was expected and aligns with broader industry trends.
As the March 1, 2026, implementation date approaches, travelers booked on itineraries visiting Great Stirrup Cay will need to factor this new policy into their vacation planning and budget.
