Norwegian Cruise Lines has just released the first tidbits of information regarding the long-awaited upgrade of Great Stirrup Cay – their flagship private island in the Bahamas.
Great Stirrup Cay
Just a few years after purchasing Belize’s Harvest Caye, cruising behemoth Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) has now revealed multi-million dollar plans to renovate their flagship private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. According to a recent press release, the island will be re-opened to great fanfare next year.
USD 400 million Investment Plans Revealed
NCL became the first cruise liner to add a private island to their itinerary after purchasing the 62-hectare Great Stirrup Cay back in 1977. After witnessing popularity ratings soar, the industry has since invested hundreds of millions in the niche market, with the likes of Disney Cruises, MSC, Royal Caribbean and several other big players all counting to the ranks of private island owners.
Just in time for the 40th anniversary of their first private island purchase, NCL has now announced its intentions to remodel Great Stirrup Cay as part of “The Norwegian Edge” – a USD 400 million investment program aimed at cementing the company’s status as the world’s leading cruise liner.
High-Octane Thrills and Five-Star Relaxation
The most eagerly-awaited improvements include a brand new, 800-meter long promenade which is aimed to ease access to the island’s four hectare large, powder-white beach from the nearby shaded seating area, a 2,000 square meter entertainment area (home to basketball and volleyball courts, a picnic area and a large stage for live music events) and a 300 meter long zip line – perfect for those with a good head for heights.
Those in search of some much needed rest and relaxation will not be disappointed either – a private lagoon resort is available for passengers travelling in one of NCL’s luxurious suites, promising five-star accommodation at one of the island’s 22 air-conditioned beach villas, picture-perfect powder white beaches and sensual massage treatments at the Mandara Spa.
Gastronomic Excellence, Flexible Accommodation
Furthermore, each and every one of the island’s numerous restaurants and bars will undergo a transformation, increasing the gastronomic capacity by approximately 50%. A series of new additions are also planned, including a new taco bar (“Abaco Taco”) and the “LandShark Bar & Grill” – a brand new á la carte restaurant concept formed in partnership with Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville.
The island’s accommodation, too, will receive something of an overhaul, allowing for even more flexibility for families. Starting from 2017, travellers will be able to choose from studio villas (with space for two to four guests), one-bedroom villas (with space for four to six guests) and two-bedroom villas, which, with its two bathrooms, a living/dining area, a spacious terrace and a whirlpool, offers space for up to 10 guests.
The revamped Great Stirrup Cay will reappear on NCL’s Caribbean and Bahaman cruise itineraries as of summer 2017. Stay tuned to Private Island News for more information.
Read more:
- Private Islands for Cruise Ship Passengers
http://www.privateislandnews.com/caribbean-private-islands-cruise-ships/
- NCL is the Latest Cruise Company to Buy a Private Island
http://www.privateislandnews.com/belize-ncl-cruise-company-buys-private-island/
- Cruise Industry Makes Further Advances Across Caribbean Islands
http://www.privateislandnews.com/caribbean-cruise-industry-makes-further-advances-across-caribbean-islands/
