Norwegian to End Shipboard Drink Packages at Great Stirrup Cay in 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will discontinue the use of its shipboard beverage packages on its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, starting March 1, 2026. This significant policy change is part of NCL’s $150 million investment to transform the guest experience at the Bahamas-based destination, and it aligns with broader industry shifts observed at other cruise lines’ private destinations.

New Island-Specific Beverage Package to Launch

In response to this policy update, NCL plans to introduce an exclusive beverage package designed specifically for Great Stirrup Cay. While pricing and further details about this package have not yet been disclosed, the cruise line has confirmed that it will be available starting January 1, 2026. For those not wishing to purchase the package, complimentary nonalcoholic beverages, including water, iced tea, and juices, will still be provided on the island for guests who present their ship key cards.

In an official statement, Norwegian Cruise Line explained, “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 beginning March 1, 2026.” The company highlighted the introduction of the island-specific drink package as a feature intended to provide guests with more flexibility in curating their experience at the private destination.

Major Upgrades Planned for Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian’s policy change comes in conjunction with extensive upgrades to facilities and attractions on Great Stirrup Cay. A new multi-ship pier is set to be completed by the end of 2025, removing the need for tenders and enabling seamless access for up to two docked vessels at a time. This upgraded infrastructure seeks to accommodate a growing number of visitors and address logistical challenges.

Additionally, an expanded pool area with complimentary loungers, a splash pad for children, and other family-friendly features are planned as part of the island’s modernization. Summer 2026 will also see the unveiling of the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark, a six-acre attraction featuring 19 thrilling waterslides, an 800-foot-long dynamic river, cliff-jumping attractions, and specialized play zones for children. Collectively, these enhancements are designed to elevate the overall guest experience and cater to a spectrum of preferences, from relaxation to adventure.

Mixed Reactions Among Passengers

This policy adjustment has sparked mixed reactions from NCL’s loyal passengers. While some are excited about the new amenities at Great Stirrup Cay, others view the move as part of a broader trend toward additional fees in the cruise industry. The change has prompted criticism on social media platforms and online community forums, with some passengers accusing NCL of “nickel-and-diming” customers and complicating the all-inclusive vacation experience.

“Cruising used to include everything,” one passenger wrote online. “Now I feel like I have to pay extra fees for something that should already be included.” Another commented, “Guess I’m staying on the ship if I want a beer.” Many have expressed frustration at the prospect of purchasing a separate beverage package for the island on top of an already costly cruise package.

Others defended NCL’s decision, noting that it falls in line with current practices at other private island destinations such as Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, where separate beverage policies are enforced. “Every business must constantly adjust what products they provide and the costs of providing those products or they will go out of business,” one user commented in favor of the update.

Broader Industry Trends and Economic Implications

NCL’s decision reflects a growing trend in the cruise industry to introduce destination-specific policies aimed at generating additional revenue while delivering unique vacation experiences. Cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean already enforce similar practices at their private islands, requiring guests to purchase drinks separately or pay for exclusive packages tailored to the destination. By designing custom offers and revamping infrastructure at private destinations, cruise operators seek to balance rising operational costs with increasing customer demand for enriched experiences.

The Bahamas is a key hub for the cruise industry, and private island investments such as Great Stirrup Cay’s transformation serve as a significant driver of economic activity in the region. The development of new piers, waterparks, and guest-focused amenities not only enhances the passenger experience but also supports local employment and tourism revenue in the surrounding area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Norwegian Cruise Line ending the use of shipboard drink packages on Great Stirrup Cay?

The change is part of NCL’s $150 million transformation of Great Stirrup Cay, aimed at enhancing the guest experience with new amenities and infrastructure. The policy aims to provide guests with more flexibility by introducing a destination-specific drink package.

What complimentary beverages will be available on Great Stirrup Cay?

Guests will continue to enjoy complimentary nonalcoholic beverages, including water, iced tea, and juices, by presenting their ship key card at designated locations on the island.

What are the key upgrades planned for Great Stirrup Cay?

Major upgrades include a new multi-ship pier (to be completed by the end of 2025), an expanded pool area with loungers, a splash pad for children, and the Great Tides Waterpark. This state-of-the-art waterpark will open in summer 2026 and feature 19 waterslides, an 800-foot-long dynamic river, and cliff-jumping attractions.

How does this policy compare to other cruise lines?

Many cruise lines have already implemented similar policies at their private destinations. For example, Carnival Cruise Line requires guests to purchase drinks at destinations like Celebration Key, while Royal Caribbean allows its shipboard beverage packages to be used at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

How does this impact guests sailing before 2026?

Guests sailing to Great Stirrup Cay before March 1, 2026, will continue to enjoy their shipboard drink packages on the island as per the current policy. The new island-specific drink package will become available for purchase on January 1, 2026, with the policy change officially taking effect two months later.