Great Stirrup Cay is a beautiful private island in the Bahamas owned by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). It’s a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and lots of fun activities for everyone. Located in the Berry Islands, this 268-acre island is a popular stop for NCL cruise passengers. A helpful way to plan your visit is by using a map of Great Stirrup Cay of Map to explore all it has to offer.
Map of Great Stirrup Cay
To help you get around, let’s talk about the layout of Great Stirrup Cay. The island is about 2 miles long and half a mile wide, but only the northern part is developed for visitors. If you are looking for a map of Great Stirrup Cay, here’s a simple breakdown of the key areas:
- Infinity Beach: This is the main beach you will see when you step off the tender boat. It’s the biggest and busiest, with lots of lounge chairs, umbrellas, and easy access to bars and food spots like the Jumbey Beach Grill and Abaco Taco. It’s great for families or anyone who wants to be close to the action.
- Lighthouse Beach: A bit farther from the tender drop-off, this beach is near the historic lighthouse. It’s a good spot for relaxing under palm trees or trying the zipline that starts nearby. It’s less crowded than Infinity Beach.
- Cabana Beach: This smaller beach is quieter and perfect for a peaceful day. You can rent cabanas here for extra comfort. There’s also a food truck nearby serving sandwiches and ceviche.
- Silver Cove: This is a fancy, private area with luxury villas, a private beach, a lagoon, and an infinity pool. It’s perfect for those who want a more exclusive experience.
- Activity Areas: The island has spots for snorkeling, kayaking, and other water sports, mostly near Infinity Beach and Bertram’s Cove. The zipline and ropes course are near Lighthouse Beach, and the Aqua Park with inflatable obstacles is great for kids.
- Dining and Bars: You will find food at Jumbey Beach Grill (burgers, hot dogs, salads), Abaco Taco (tacos with various fillings), and the Tropic Like It’s Hot food truck (sandwiches and ceviche). Bars like Bertram’s Bar, Bacardi Bar, and Patron Bar are scattered around, with the Moet Bar and Silver Cove Bar exclusive to Silver Cove guests.
- Straw Market: Near Infinity Beach, this market has local vendors selling crafts, jewelry, and beachwear.
- Welcome Center and Tram Stops: A new welcome center is coming in 2025, and trams run across the island to help you move between beaches and activity areas.
When you arrive, get a map from the welcome area or check signs to find your way. The island is easy to navigate, and trams make it simple to get around, especially for families or those with mobility needs.
Things to Do in Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas
Great Stirrup Cay has something for everyone, whether you love adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. If you are looking for the best things to do in Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas, here are the top activities to enjoy, with options for free and paid experiences. Great Stirrup Cay of Map
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Free Activities
Enjoy these complimentary activities available for all guests:
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Relax on the Beach
The beaches are the heart of Great Stirrup Cay. Spread out a towel on Infinity Beach, Lighthouse Beach, or Cabana Beach and enjoy the soft sand and clear water. Swim, build sandcastles, or just soak up the sun. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are free, but arrive early to grab a good spot, especially near Infinity Beach.
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Take Photos at the Swings
The island has over-the-water swings that are perfect for Instagram photos. The most popular one is near the Bacardi Bar, with the cruise ship and blue water in the background. Other swings are scattered around, offering great views of the island.
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Explore the Island
Walk along the paved paths or nature trails to see the lush greenery and ocean views. Visit the historic lighthouse, built in 1863, for a peek into the island’s past. You can also climb the viewing platform near Infinity Beach for a great view of the ship and coastline.
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Enjoy Free Food
All food on the island is included in your cruise fare. Head to Jumbey Beach Grill for burgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, and salads. Abaco Taco offers build-your-own tacos with fish, chicken, or beef. The Tropic Like It’s Hot food truck has sandwiches and ceviche. Bring your cruise card to use your drink package at bars like Bertram’s Bar or Bacardi Bar.
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Play Beach Games
The ship’s activities staff hosts free games like beach volleyball, dance classes, and yoga. Check the daily schedule for times and locations, usually near Infinity Beach or the Bacardi Bar. Symphony of the Seas
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Paid Activities
Here are some fun and exciting options you can choose from (charges apply): Great Stirrup Cay of Map
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Snorkeling
Rent snorkel gear (about $30 per person) and explore the underwater sculpture garden in Bertram’s Cove. The clear waters are full of colorful fish, coral reefs, and even a small shipwreck. Bring your own gear if you want to save money, but the rental center has everything you need.
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Zipline Adventure
The zipline course near Lighthouse Beach is a thrilling way to see the island from above. It includes six zips and a ropes course with nets and bridges. The cost is around $99-$129 per person, and you need to book in advance.
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Wave Runner Tour
Hop on a jet ski for a guided Wave Runner Tour (about $129 for adults). You will zoom through the Berry Islands, stopping at places like Star Fish Alley to swim and see starfish. It’s great for beginners and experienced riders alike.
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Swim with Pigs
Take a short boat ride to Treasure Island for a 90-minute adventure swimming with pigs. You’ll get to feed them apples and take photos in the water. The excursion costs about $130 for adults and $95 for kids, and it’s a unique experience you won’t forget.
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Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard (around $40-$60) for a fun way to explore the calm waters. Guided kayak tours are also available, taking you around the island to see marine life like sea turtles and fish.
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Parasailing
Soar above the island on a parasailing adventure (about $129 per person). An experienced guide will pull you along, giving you amazing views of Great Stirrup Cay and the surrounding reefs. It’s a thrilling activity for all ages.
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Rent a Cabana or Villa
For extra comfort, rent a classic cabana (up to 6 people, about $425) or a premium cabana (up to 8 people, about $449). These come with chairs, a ceiling fan, bottled water, and floating mats. For a luxury experience, book a villa at Silver Cove (6-16 people, starting at $599). Villas have air conditioning, a TV, a private restroom, and access to a private beach and infinity pool.
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Aqua Park
Kids and adults love the inflatable water obstacle course at the Aqua Park (about $20-$30 per person). It’s a fun way to splash around and burn off energy. A new Kids Cove with a zero-entry pool and water features is coming in 2025.
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Mandara Spa
Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment at the Mandara Spa in Silver Cove. Prices vary, but a Thai ball massage costs around $100-$150. It’s a great way to relax after a day of adventure.
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Hippo Water Slide
Slide down the world’s largest inflatable water slide, 40 feet high and 175 feet long. It’s a fun activity for kids and adults, costing about $15-$20 per person.
Little Stirrup Cay Island
Little Stirrup Cay, now called Perfect Day at CocoCay, is right next to Great Stirrup Cay. It is owned by Royal Caribbean and is another private island for cruise passengers. Also known as Little Stirrup Cay Island, you can sometimes see CocoCay’s tall waterslide, Daredevil’s Peak, from Great Stirrup Cay. While you can’t visit CocoCay unless you’re on a Royal Caribbean cruise, it is similar to Great Stirrup Cay with beaches, water activities, and kid-friendly attractions. CocoCay has more thrill rides, like a helium balloon ride and a wave pool, but Great Stirrup Cay is known for its relaxed vibe and unique activities like the underwater sculpture garden. Radiance of the Seas
The Last Few Lines
Great Stirrup Cay is a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. The island’s private setting means everything is designed for NCL guests, with free food, plenty of activities, and a safe, clean environment. Additionally, the upcoming upgrades in 2025 will make it an even better destination.
