The Cruise Ship and Cruise Line Discussion Thread!

[Hilltopper39]

So we just got back from a 2 day cruise on Royal Caribbean Independence of the seas and had a pretty awesome time. It was originally a 3 day cruise, scheduled to leave Friday and come back on Monday morning, but Hurricane Ian delayed departure by a day so we sailed out Saturday Morning and back on Monday. They credited us back 2/3 days of the cruise fare, and I think maybe 1.5 days worth of our drink package? I don't remember all of the details but the whole trip ended up being very cheap when it was all said and done, so it was worth it.

We originally had just booked an interior room since it was kind of a last minute trip, but after the delay we figured there would be a lot of cancelations so we asked about a room upgrade. I believe we were told that there were only maybe 2200 people on the boat vs the 4000+ person capacity, so they upgraded us to a balcony for $50.00.

 

 

Got a nice look at the Carnival ship with the Bolt coaster on the side during sail away which was cool. Not sure if I'll ever make it on that ship but it's cool that Carnival offers that now. The sailaway was really fun because there were like 5 ships all leaving at once, probably because of the delayed departure.

 

The weather was absolutely beautiful the whole trip, sunny, no rain, incredibly calm seas, and the boat being half empty was really nice. It still felt like there was a good crowd, especially in the bars and casinos, but dinner and the pool deck were empty which was nice. We didn't do any of the specialty dining options other than some wings in the sports bar since it was such a short cruise, but all of the food in the buffet and main dining room was good. Nothing was bad but nothing was "great" either if that makes any sense? For a 2 day cruise it was fine, but on a longer sailing I probably would have tried the steak house or something. Here's a picture from our 8pm dinner seating where the dining room was basically empty lol. There was a family next to use but yeah, the place was dead.

 

We didn't get to go Cocoa Cay which was a bummer, I was really looking forward to seeing that place, but I'm sure there will be another cruise in the future for that. We sailed to Nassau and back, but never got off the boat in Nassau because we stayed on the boat to watch the Jags vs Eagles game. This trip was originally supposed to have been a trip to Philly for that game, but we cancelled that trip for various reasons and booked the cruise instead. Glad we did because the weather in Philly was awful and the Jags blew the game (typical), so I'd rather watch that from a boat in Nassau than from the stadium in Philly.

We did the drink package, so a pre-dinner martini on the balcony was pretty awesome. The drink package as a whole was really nice, and we drank way too much. I think the fist day we had like 28 charges on our account, so yeah the all inclusive package was worth it lol.

The ship was great, I've been on 1 Disney cruise, 1 Carnival, and this was my second on RCCL, but this felt like the nicest most modern ship I'd ever been on. I loved how the whole interior was open end to end with bars and shops and restaurants everywhere. It really didn't feel like a cruise ship on the interior. The ship was also really easy to navigate considering how big it was. I remember our Disney ship being much more confusing.

 

The activity schedule was a little limited since the cruise was cut short by a day. Grease was the musical on our sailing but we didn't have a chance to see it (I love musicals but Grease isn't my favorite so it's fine). We did check out the juggling comedians show, an adult game show thing, and played Bingo. Other wise we pretty much just gambled and ate and drank, drank a lot, for 2 days. I did take advantage of short lines for the Flowrider Saturday morning when we were in port, that's always fun even if I fall on my head.

So all in all a very short trip, but still a lot of fun. I've only ever been on 3 day cruises because it seems to fit our scheduled better but I really want to try a longer sailing in the future sometime. 

[SharkTums]

Glad you could at least salvage some of your cruise!

[Hilltopper39]

Has anyone here ever sailed on MSC before? This weekend we were talking to some friends who told us about a sailing they had booked for Spring Break and we looked into it. Turns out that for a 4 or 5 day cruise in a Balcony room for the whole family was ridiculously cheap, maybe like $1100 for all of us? So we booked it, but now I'm trying to figure out why it's so cheap lol. I mean the ship looks pretty nice, so how bad can it be? 

[SharkTums]

Our friends just got off an MSC out of Port Canaveral. Also dirt cheap, like $600 for two of them for a week!  They said the pizza and pasta onboard was very good and it was a nice ship. They didn't like it as much as Royal Caribbean but way better than Carnival. Put it similar to Princess, not as nice as Celebrity. 

[KBrylczyk]

On 10/17/2022 at 2:07 PM, SharkTums said:

They didn't like it as much as Royal Caribbean but way better than Carnival.

We're really setting that bar six feet under to begin with, eh?

[mikeykaise]

I agree about Carnival.... it was exciting because it was a two for trip... my first cruise and my first time going to foreign countries but here's some of my thoughts about Carnival itself (newbie experience so keep that in mind)

* we bought the soda package - was a good deal except after 11 or so, all the bars and food places were pretty much closed and if you were up late you could only go to the casino bar which was open till 2:30, room service was a no go on the package

* the shows.... for some reason no show lasted beyond 30 mins - the one I did go to was an 80s review and it was 6 singers sitting on stools getting up to sing their parts, huge let down, did go to the comedy club which was fun but again 30 mins and done

* people openly smoking marijuana in the smoking areas - even had people arrested and put in the brig for doing it in their staterooms the first or second night out

* buffet was mehhhhhh.... my friend got scrambled eggs the day after we sailed from the port and when she used her fork was sprayed with water - the dining room was much better food we ate our meals the rest of the time there

* the deck party the final night out lasted around 30 mins at like 8pm on the last day of the cruise - was totally surprised it wasn't much bigger and longer

* decent sized ship and yet there was only one little smoking area on the upper pool deck 

* again not as much entertainment as expected except for bingo and the casino so I spent a lot of time just sitting out on deck in the smoking area when I could grab a seat talking to people and watching the ocean going by

[UrbanMage]

I just returned from a Caribbean cruise on one of the Celebrity Cruises liners, and it was incredible! The most impressive thing for me was the quality of service and the variety of entertainment on board. Every evening there was something new, from ice shows to live concerts. The organized excursions also amazed me, especially snorkeling among coral reefs. This was my first cruise, and I definitely plan on taking more such trips!

[jedimaster1227]

Royal Caribbean Group has released details of their new Ultimate Destination lineup including Perfect Day Mexico and their upcoming Royal Beach Clubs. These destinations join Perfect Day CocoCay as private offerings for Royal Caribbean's growing fleet of ships to visit worldwide. 

https://www.royalcaribbeangrouppresscenter.com/news/royal-caribbean-gives-thrilling-first-look-at-perfect-day-mexico-plus-three-more-destination-experiences-to-come

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE:RCL) – The world’s boldest vacations are on the horizon as Royal Caribbean is raising the bar with its newly revealed Ultimate Destination lineup – with headliner Perfect Day Mexico* set to break records with never-before-seen features. From all-new thrills and unrivaled ways to chill at the next Perfect Day to unmatched beach getaways across the first Royal Beach Clubs, the vacation brand’s growing portfolio of exclusive destinations will deliver more ways for vacationers to experience the best of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships alongside shoreside adventures in Mexico, The Bahamas and the South Pacific.

“We have spent the last 50 years shattering perceptions around cruising to transform into a global vacation brand for all generations. Now, we’re bringing our demonstrated history of unparalleled service and revolutionary innovation – everything our vacationers know and love – into our collection of destinations that offer more locally inspired perfect days and beachfront getaways,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. “Perfect Day Mexico is bigger and bolder than anything we have done to date. This destination will be the ultimate vacation for families, and we cannot wait to welcome adventurers from around the world to Mexico for an experience only Royal Caribbean can provide.”

Spanning more than 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Perfect Day Mexico will raise the bar on vacations with record-breaking experiences, industry firsts and twists on Royal Caribbean favorites when it all comes to life in fall 2027. There's something for adventurers of all ages across seven neighborhoods. Highlights include:  

• Loco Waterpark – Thrill-seekers can conquer more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The more than 170-foot-tall Jaguar’s Peak features two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world. Vacationers can scale new heights across the tower’s 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once. There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world’s first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico’s iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there’s something for everyone.
• Splash Cove – The central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world – with a crazy side. Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who dare, an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins. In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool – just one of Perfect Day Mexico’s more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields. The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean’s largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect home base for families.
• El Hideaway – At this adults-only neighborhood, day pass holders 18 years and older can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ. Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas.
• Costa Beach Club – Guests looking to upgrade their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of Costa Beach Club. And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool.
• Chill Beach North and South – Vacationers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico.
• Fiesta Plaza – Where all the festivities begin: a vibrant arrival area transports vacationers straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance. Plus, the world’s largest sombrero sits atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming guests with margaritas, cervezas and more.

Fueling the thrill and chill all day long are 12 regionally inspired dining options, from sit-down spots to grab-and-go eateries, with nearly all food spots complimentary to guests. Plus, there are endless reasons to toast “¡Salud!” at 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. Mariachi performances, art installations, and local artisans for souvenir shopping further bring the Mexican culture to life.  

Upon opening in fall 2027, Perfect Day Mexico will welcome Western Caribbean itineraries sailing from Galveston, New Orleans and all Florida homeports. Itineraries featuring Perfect Day Mexico will become available to book this fall.

"We're committed to pushing the boundaries of what a modern-day vacation can be – delivering innovative experiences that create unforgettable memories for our guests and value for the communities we visit,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings at sea and on land, our ambition is to offer our guests a diverse range of experiences that grow with them, turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations.”

To bring Perfect Day Mexico to life, Royal Caribbean is continuing its longstanding partnership with the local government and community to develop a modern, sustainable destination that will bring vacationers from around the world to Mexico. The port will remain open during all phases of the project and beyond, with a new welcome center being built by Royal Caribbean to acquaint guests of all visiting cruise lines with landmark attractions in the Mahahual area and provide transportation throughout the region. The development of the Perfect Day Mexico site, and local community infrastructure projects, is in line with parent company Royal Caribbean Group’s SEA the Future commitment to deliver the best vacation experiences in a responsible manner by sustaining the planet, energizing communities and accelerating innovation.

“At Royal Caribbean, our ambition is bigger than ever, and so is our lineup of amazing experiences we are designing, all centered on our guests,” said Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean. “Vacationers trust us to help them make every moment a memory, which is why we are changing the game with unforgettable experiences at Perfect Day Mexico and beyond.”

Royal Caribbean delivers the best vacations to more than 7 million people annually and visits 300+ destinations on 28 ships, with four more on order. Over the next three years, the vacation brand will also expand its destination lineup to six locales with the addition of four exclusive destination experiences that redefine what a vacation can look like. Alongside the original game-changer Perfect Day at CocoCay and the next bold adventure, Perfect Day Mexico, Royal Caribbean’s new Royal Beach Clubs will deliver the ultimate beach day.

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island – Set to debut in December 2025, the first-of-its-kind Royal Beach Club in The Bahamas will combine the stunning beaches of Nassau’s Paradise Island with Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences. With the purchase of an all-inclusive day pass, vacationers can enjoy unlimited dining, drinks and amenities, from The Floating Flamingo – the world’s largest swim-up bar – to three island-style eateries for local fare, Bahamian art installations, and live music. Vacationers can join the official waitlist to be the first to know when bookings become available in just a few short weeks.
• Royal Beach Club Cozumel – Featuring stunning beaches, pools with swim-up bars, cabanas, snorkeling, kayaking and more, the beach club will complement all the island has to offer when it opens in 2026. The spirit of Mexico will be at the heart of the experience across local touches and a variety of ways to dine and drink, a street market, and hands-on experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes.

Adding to the range of experiences for any vibe and mood are Royal Caribbean’s exclusive beach destinations in Labadee, Haiti, and, in early 2027, Lelepa in the South Pacific for more ways to bask in paradise.

• Lelepa – Royal Caribbean is bringing a bold beach experience to the shores of Lelepa, a Vanuatuan island in the South Pacific Archipelago east of Australia. The first exclusive island cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere will offer a locally inspired experience for guests in Australia and beyond, complete with serene beaches, nature trails, water activities and delicious dining.

In August 2025, vacationers on the new Icon of vacations, Star of the Seas, will experience the best of Royal Caribbean from beginning to end with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay alongside the world’s best family vacation. By 2027, 90% of the brand’s Caribbean vacationers will experience a Perfect Day across Perfect Day at CocoCay and Perfect Day Mexico. What’s more, vacationers sailing from U.S. Gulf ports are in for the ultimate vacation days starting in 2027 with Royal Caribbean itineraries that visit both Royal Beach Club Cozumel and Perfect Day Mexico.

More information about Royal Caribbean’s leading vacations and growing lineup of destinations can be found at www.royalcaribbean.com/.

Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor. 

[prozach626]

Holy crap! Those attractions at the waterpark are massive!
Concept art is getting really good.

[Nrthwnd]

It all looks amazing, that art work.

[jedimaster1227]

Royal Caribbean has announced they are amplifying the Ovation, Harmony and Liberty of the seas in time for the Spring 2026 season with new and enhanced venues and features for each of these ships!

https://www.royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com/press-release/1798/royal-caribbean-will-amp-up-memory-making-on-ovation-harmony-and-liberty-of-the-seas-in-2026/

Royal Caribbean is tripling the adventure in 2026 when it debuts three newly amplified vacations on Ovation, Harmony and Liberty of the Seas. The fan-favorite ships are set to be reimagined with bold new experiences while visiting must-see destinations across Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean. Vacationers have more choices than ever before for all-out adventures starting spring 2026 and can book the vacations now on Royal Caribbean’s website.

“Royal Caribbean continues to raise the bar on delivering the best of every vacation with revolutionary ships and top-rated exclusive destinations. The Royal Amplified program gives our guests the best of Royal Caribbean with new-to-class culinary options and experiences, entertainment and thrilling adventures, paired with the hospitality and service Royal Caribbean is known for,” said Jay Schneider, chief product innovation officer, Royal Caribbean. “After seeing incredible success and guest satisfaction with the amplification of Allure of the Seas, we’re excited to bring three new amplifications to our fleet in 2026.”

With new thrills and laidback chill, bolder ways to dine and drink, leveled-up nightlife, and more ways to stay, families and adventurers can max out memories on a lineup of unmatched experiences:

Ovation of the Seas

Vacationers can go all out with amplified experiences on Ovation, including a revamped pool deck with private casitas and a new whirlpool. To refuel, there’s a variety of international cuisine to indulge in from Tuscan favorites at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen to hibachi at Izumi Teppanyaki. The celebrations continue with tropical cocktails at the Pesky Parrot tiki bar, making its Quantum Class debut; dancing at the brand-new Sound Cellar; and more slots and games at the expanded Casino Royale. Along with new accommodations like the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite, the upcoming experiences join a lineup of returning Quantum Class favorites like the Ripcord by iFly skydiving simulator and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea.

Ovation will take adventure to the next level at sea and on land with getaways to Alaska, where vacationers can take in the wonders of the Last Frontier on 7- to 13-night Alaskan adventures starting spring 2026. Plus, Ovation returns to the region as the first in the action-packed Quantum Class lineup to deliver immersive adventures on land with multi-night Cruisetour experiences.

Harmony of the Seas

Making its way to Harmony is a new Caribbean-inspired pool deck with tropical sips at the new The Lime & Coconut, as well as a refreshed adults-only Solarium. Adventurers can dive into bold bites at more than 20 venues, including Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade for gameday favorites, El Loco Fresh for Mexican delights and the new Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse. Plus, new ways to stay like the Ultimate Family Suite and even bigger nightlife at the largest Casino Royale in Royal Caribbean’s fleet create more ways for all kinds of vacationers to make memories.

Harmony will kick off its summer glow-up in Europe before the Oasis Class vacation calls Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, home. Starting winter 2026, vacationers can get away to the Caribbean on 5- and 7-night vacations to locations like Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Falmouth, Jamaica. Adventurers can also visit the vacation brand’s top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas and purchase their day passes to the all-inclusive Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, debuting December 2025.

Liberty of the Seas

Families are in for all-new experiences for all ages with unmatched chill at the completely reimagined pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas, and thrills at an all-new Royal Escape Room concept coming to Liberty. There are flavors for all tastebuds from Japanese cuisine and hibachi at Izumi Teppanyaki to tacos and more at El Loco Fresh, along with a new-to-ship Starbucks. It’s all combined with returning favorites on deck, like The Perfect Storm waterslides, crave-worthy restaurants and show-stopping entertainment.

Sailing from Southampton in summer 2026, vacationers on Liberty can explore European hot spots with 7-night adventures to places like the awe-inspiring Norwegian fjords, the medieval streets of Bruges, Belgium, and the rich culture of Copenhagen, Denmark. Then, Liberty will head to Galveston, Texas, for the winter season, unlocking more ways for vacationers to explore the Western Caribbean at spots like the vacation brand’s Royal Beach Club Cozumel, delivering the ultimate beach day in Mexico when it opens in 2026.

Following the newly reimagined Allure of the Seas, the three soon-to-be-amplified vacations are the latest in the award-winning fleet to be transformed as part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified program, first introduced in 2018.  Royal Caribbean continues to deliver the best vacations to more than seven million people annually with visits to 300-plus destinations across 28 ships, with four more on order. Plus, the vacation brand will continue to expand its destination lineup in the next three years with the addition of four exclusive experiences, including the next bold adventure in Perfect Day Mexico in fall 2027. Joining the lineup are Royal Caribbean’s new Royal Beach Clubs in Paradise Island in The Bahamas and Cozumel, Mexico, along with exclusive beach destinations in Labadee, Haiti, and Lelepa in the South Pacific to deliver more ways to bask in paradise.

More information about Royal Caribbean’s leading vacations and growing lineup of ships and destinations can be found on Royal Caribbean’s website.

[jedimaster1227]

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a significant enhancemnet of Great Stirrup Cay, their private cruise destination in the bahamas. In Summer 2026 the new Great Tides Waterpark will open along with other new enhancements for the destination!

https://www.multivu.com/norwegian_cruise_line/9305955-en-norwegian-cruise-line-great-stirrup-cay-expansion

Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced additional details for its private island transformation on Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas headlined by a nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark opening in summer 2026, and more incredible experiences to bring unforgettable adventures and endless relaxation for its guests.

From cliff jumps and jet karts to swim-up bars and splash zones, the expansion of the island’s offerings is designed to elevate every guest’s experience – adults and kids alike – with more freedom, more flexibility and more ways for them to discover “The Great Life!” at Great Stirrup Cay.

“Great Stirrup Cay has always been an amazing part of the Norwegian Cruise Line guest experience and continues to be one of our highest rated destinations," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. "At 270 acres our private island provides us with an incredible blueprint to reinvent what guests can experience when they escape to ‘The Great Life’ with us. This new waterpark is an outstanding addition to our recent announcement about other amazing new amenities on the island soon to debut. With each phase of our enhancements, we’re bringing ashore more of what our guests love about sailing with NCL. Whether you want to relax by the huge new heated pool – complete with multiple swim up bars, are looking forward to racing down one of the 19 waterslides with your kids at Great Tides Waterpark, or just want to enjoy the ocean breeze from one of the hammocks at Hammock Bay, Great Stirrup Cay will soon boast even more ways to escape to YOUR ‘great life’ for a memorable vacation on and off the ship. I am thrilled to welcome our guests to the greatest private island in the Caribbean!"

BIG SPLASH, BIGGER ESCAPE: GREAT TIDES WATERPARK WILL DELIVER INDUSTRY FIRST EXPERIENCES WITH ADRENALINE-BOOSTING AND LAID-BACK ADVENTURES
Anchored by 19 waterslides – from adrenaline-boosting to laid-back adventure – a nearly 800-foot dynamic river, the 9,000-square-foot splash zone for kids, and the industry’s first cliffside jumps, Great Tides Waterpark will deliver guests MORE to do and MORE to enjoy.

At 170-feet, the unmissable Tidal Tower will be home to eight thrilling waterslides, including the two tallest slides of the tower where guests can experience splashing drops and thrilling climbs on an inner tube for an exhilarating ride. Additional slides include racing slides where guests can speed to the finish line on a mat, tube slides which features large spirals and spins that send guests in a whole other direction as they shoot down in a burst of excitement, as well as exciting body slides. To make it even easier to enjoy, select slides will include convenient conveyer belts to lift the rafts to the top of the tower, eliminating the tedious task of guests carrying them up on their own.

Families and adventure seekers will be able to let loose at Cliffside Cove with racer slides, two different cliff jumps standing at 10 and 15 feet tall – a cruise industry first – as well as the Caribbean’s only family slide, where four guests can slide down simultaneously. For those who prefer to enjoy from the sidelines, The Grotto Bar, a hidden cave bar tucked under the family slide, will offer the best people watching with a cocktail in hand.

At the center of Great Tides Waterpark, a 9,000-square-foot kids splash zone will provide a water wonderland for little ones with an oversized tipping bucket towering at over 40 feet above the ground. Eight mini slides and interactive water features complete this aquatic paradise for children of all ages. The waterpark will also feature a dynamic river, an immersive water experience with an accelerated current that will be faster and more exciting than a typical lazy river. At 800 feet long guests will be able to enter the dynamic river from several points, including a wading pool with a conveniently located swim-up bar nearby. A highlight on the river will be an illuminated grotto tunnel featuring a dreamlike bioluminescent scene for the ultimate multi-sensory experience. Well-located cabanas will be situated at the edge of the dynamic river and the kids splash zone for premium access to the popular family areas.

MORE WAYS TO ENJOY ‘THE GREAT LIFE’: ISLAND ENHANCEMENTS FOR EVERYONE
An all-new mini aquatic racecourse with jet karts – combining elements of go-karting and jet skiing – will soon be one of the top shore excursions available on the island for adventure seekers.

Debuting later this year, guests will start to enjoy some of the first enhanced experiences at Great Stirrup Cay, beginning with the opening of the brand-new heated pool, a new multi-ship pier, the scenic welcome plaza, and an island-wide tram service that will make it easier than ever to get around the island and escape to “The Great Life.” The Great Life Lagoon, the recently announced expansive 1.4-acre pool area, will be complete with private ocean and pool view cabanas and villas, an abundance of complimentary loungers and two swim-up bars offering a selection of refreshing beverages including kid-friendly drinks and adult-favorite cocktails. Each bar will have its own ambiance, with Reef Bar designed to be more vibrant with a DJ spinning all-day beats. The Waves Bar will be on the opposite side of the pool where a beach-style entrance leads to an exciting splash area for kids with fun water features. Another popular family space will be the 3,400-square-foot Splash Harbor, a complimentary splash pad steps away from the brand-new heated pool, with interactive water fountains, aquatic features and a shaded bar and lounge for the parents to relax while the kids are at play.

For guests who enjoy their fair share of competition, the soon-to-be all-new complimentary recreational area, Horizon Park, will feature lawn style games, pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini golf course, half a sports court and more. Designed to provide the ultimate beachside relaxation, Hammock Bay will include over 50 hammocks for the perfect afternoon nap, a dedicated bar and will be conveniently located near the guest-favorite BBQ buffet. Or if exclusive oceanfront luxury is preferred, Vibe Shore Club, the adults-only area, will offer a chicer ambiance with a private bar, hanging day beds and premium lounge seating. Entrance to the adults-only area comes with the purchase of a day pass and includes an upgraded lounger and premium umbrella, or for an even more elevated experience, villas will also be available to rent.

TRAVELERS CAN WIN THEIR WAY TO PARADISE WITH NCL’S ‘ESCAPE TO THE GREAT LIFE’ SWEEPSTAKES
As part of the “Escape to the Great Life” campaign, NCL is launching a nationwide sweepstakes from July 29 to Aug. 31, 2025 and giving away 250 cruises to Great Stirrup Cay for travelers to experience the all-new attractions. Open to residents of the U.S. and Canada1, consumers can enter for a chance to win a four-day voyage in August 2026 for two in a balcony stateroom inclusive of NCL’s popular More At Sea™ package. For additional details on the sweepstakes or to enter to win, visit www.ncl.com/great-stirrup-cay.

Additionally, from July 29 to 31, 2025 NCL is bringing the island life to New York City, and in Miami throughout the month of August, with “Escape to the Great Life” consumer activations. In New York City, NCL is bringing Great Stirrup Cay to SoHo with a limited-time engagement experience. Beginning at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29 a custom “escape hatch” at 104 Grand Street, New York City, will open to the public and passersby will instantly be transported to the island paradise, complete with tropical sights and sounds of what awaits at Great Stirrup Cay. Guests will find immersive LED graphic island visuals, they’ll be able to dance to the beat of live steel drums, snag beach ready NCL merchandise and enter to win the “Escape to the Great Life” sweepstakes. The pop-up activation is open to the public on July 29, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST on July 30 and 31, 2025.

Coinciding with the consumer activation, seven custom “escape hatches” are hidden across Manhattan in the popular areas of Hudson Yards, Gansevoort Plaza, 54th Street in Times Square, Broadway and Broome, Grand Central Station, State Street in the Financial District, and on the Highline Sundeck on 14th Street, providing the public additional opportunities to open the door and to enter to win one of the 250 cruise giveaways.

Throughout the month of August, three “escape hatches” will also be hidden throughout Miami, NCL’s hometown, in Wynwood, on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach and at Bayside Marketplace in downtown inviting the public to open the doors to enter to win an escape to “The Great Life” at Great Stirrup Cay.

GREAT STIRRUP CAY ITINERARIES HEAT UP IN 2026
As the Company transforms Great Stirrup Cay, and due to the growing guest demand of Caribbean and Bahamas sailings, Norwegian Cruise Line is set to welcome one million guests to Great Stirrup Cay across 15 of its ships in 2026. It will bring its newest ships to its private island in the Bahamas, including Norwegian Aqua™, offering a variety of seven-day Caribbean voyages from Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral), Fla. through October 2027 with calls to the Dominican Republic, U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands and more. In addition, Norwegian Luna, the Company’s latest vessel debuting in March 2026, will also offer seven-day Caribbean itineraries from April 2026 to October 2026, visiting the same beautiful tropical destinations as her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua.

Starting today and for a limited time, NCL is offering up to $1,500 off all Caribbean and Bahamas sailings with “The Great Life Sale” for guests to book their next tropical getaway. As an added bonus, Latitudes Members will also receive a $50 on board credit per stateroom to use during their sailing. In addition, guests can enjoy even more with NCL's ‘More at Sea™’ package providing over $2,000 of savings on guest favorite amenities including unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursion credits and Wi-Fi.

For more information about the Company's award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line® unveils additional enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay, its private island destination in the Bahamas, including Great Tides Waterpark. The new attraction will deliver adrenaline-boosting and laidback adventures suited for every kind of guest. The 170-foot-high Tidal Tower will be centerstage of this expansive waterpark with eight thrilling waterslides.

In summer 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, will also boast a 9,000 square foot splash zone for kids within Great Tides Waterpark featuring eight mini slides and an oversized tipping bucket as well as more interactive water features.

An 800-foot-long dynamic river will be a highlight of Norwegian Cruise Line’s all-new Great Tides Waterpark. As part of the immersive experience, guests will enjoy an accelerated current faster than a typical lazy river that will take them through an illuminated grotto tunnel featuring a dreamlike bioluminescent scene.

At Great Stirrup Cay, Great Tides Waterpark will encompass a total of 19 waterslides, including Cliffside Cove featuring two of the industry’s first cliff jumps standing at 10 and 15 feet high, as well as the Caribbean’s only family slide, where four guests can ride down together.

As part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s transformation of its private island destination in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, guests will be able to enjoy multiple new experiences, such as Great Life Lagoon— the expansive 1.4-acre pool area complete with a large heated pool, an abundance of loungers, two swim-up bars, aquatic activities for kids and more.

Great Stirrup Cay’s new pool area – Great Life Lagoon – is set to debut at the end of 2025 and will feature two swim-up bars, each with its own ambience, offering a selection of refreshing beverages, including kid-friendly drinks and adult-favorite cocktails.

As part of the expansive 1.4-acre pool area, a beach-style entrance leads to an exciting splash zone for kids with fun water features, and the nearby swim-up Shallows Bar will serve kid-friendly drinks and adult-favorite cocktails.

Splash Harbor will offer families a complimentary and fun-filled splash pad with interactive water fountains and aquatic features, with a shaded bar and lounge nearby for the parents to relax while the kids are at play.

Norwegian Cruise Line® is drawing inspiration from onboard guest favorite amenities with its transformation of Great Stirrup Cay. Guests will soon be able to enjoy an adults-only experience on NCL’s private island destination in the Bahamas with Vibe Shore Club. It will offer an elevated ambiance with a private bar, hanging day beds and premium lounge seating.

Horizon Park, a recreational area recently made available aboard Norwegian Breakaway® and Norwegian Bliss® , will also debut on Great Stirrup Cay. The area will provide a place to gather for the whole family with plenty of activities, including lawn style games, two pickleball courts, a nine-hole mini golf course, half a sports court and more.

Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, will soon debut Hammock Bay, an area designed for the ultimate beachside relaxation with over 50 hammocks for the perfect afternoon nap. It will also feature a dedicated bar.

Norwegian Cruise Line® is set to welcome one million guests to Great Stirrup Cay with 15 of its ships calling to the island in 2026. Through developments and enhancements currently under way, Great Stirrup Cay, as well as the new pool area, will be easily accessible to guests through a brand-new multi-ship pier, a welcome center and convenient tram service.

NCL is bringing Great Stirrup Cay to New York City with a limited-time engagement experience in SoHo where a custom “escape hatch” transports passersby to an island paradise.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Escape to the Great Life” consumer activation in New York City will feature immersive LED graphic island visuals, live steel drums, NCL merchandise and the opportunity to enter a chance to win a cruise to the Company’s private island.

As part of Norwegian’s “Escape to the Great Life” campaign, NCL is launching a nationwide sweepstakes from July 29 to Aug. 31, 2025 and giving away 250 cruises to Great Stirrup Cay, its private island in the Bahamas. The public can enter the sweepstakes using escape hatches scattered around New York City and Miami or by visiting www.ncl.com/gsc.

Norwegian Cruise Line® unveils new Great Stirrup Cay logo as part of the recently announced guest enhancing transformation.