Great Tides Waterpark. Photo: NCL Norwegian Cruise Line has given invited guests a first look at its new Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas, just days before the attraction officially opens to cruise passengers.
The exclusive preview event brought together government officials, travel partners, media representatives, more than 100 content creators and special guests to explore the nearly six-acre waterpark ahead of its September 4, 2026 grand opening.
Photo: NCLGreat Tides Waterpark is the latest major addition to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s 270-acre private island destination. The new attraction combines family-friendly water activities with a series of larger thrill rides, including several experiences the company describes as industry firsts.
The centerpiece is the 170-foot Tidal Tower, which features eight slides. Among them is Tropic Spiral, described by NCL as the world’s first Nautilus slide, while Breakwater Blasters are billed as the Caribbean’s first dueling Master Blaster slides.
Photo: NCLAt Cliffside Cove, visitors can try Cliffside Leap, featuring 10- and 15-foot cliff jumps described as the tallest in the Caribbean. The area also includes The Great Slide, a family attraction designed for four people to ride together, and Fearless Falls.
Another major feature is the more than 800-foot Wandering River, which includes an immersive tunnel and the Floataway Bar, a swim-up bar located alongside the river.
Norwegian Luna and Great Life Lagoon at Great Stirrup Cay. Photo: NCLFor younger visitors and families, Splash Cay offers more than 9,000 square feet of activities, including eight mini-slides, interactive water features and a 300-gallon tipping bucket.
The preview also introduced new food and beverage options. Three food trucks will serve barbecue at Low Tide Smoke, seafood at Catch of the Cay and ice cream and soft serve at Tidal Treats. Beverage partners including Aperol, Casamigos, Coca-Cola and Hampton Water also hosted special activations during the event.
The celebration featured a Junkanoo performance highlighting Bahamian culture, music and traditions.
Great Tides Waterpark - The Wandering River. hoto: NCLMarc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said the waterpark marks a new chapter for Great Stirrup Cay and is designed to give guests more choice between adventure and relaxation.
Great Tides Waterpark joins other recent additions to the island, including the Great Life Lagoon pool area, while guests can also access premium experiences such as the adults-only Vibe Shore Club and Silver Cove.
The waterpark will officially open on September 4.