Cruise lines expand private island offerings in the Bahamas

Cruise lines are increasingly investing in private islands to provide exclusive land-based experiences for passengers.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is set to open a massive water park named Great Tides on September 4 at its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas. The nearly six-acre facility will feature a 170-foot Tidal Tower, industry-first water coasters called Breakwater Blasters, and various other attractions including the Whitewater Dash, Rapid Mat Racers, and the four-person capacity Great Slide. The park also includes a dedicated children's area called Splash Cay and a dynamic river attraction.

Similarly, Royal Caribbean has seen significant success with its private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay (also known as Little Stirrup Cay). Since its opening in 2019, the 144-acre destination has become the company's most popular global stop, offering high-altitude waterslides alongside adult-only retreats and overwater cabanas.