Exploring Great Stirrup Cay: A Norwegian Encore Adventure



Welcome aboard as we take you on an unforgettable journey to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island paradise! In this post, we’ll dive into the island’s fascinating history, share our snorkeling experiences, and discuss what we’d love to do when we return. If you’re planning a cruise on the Norwegian Encore, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Anchoring off Great Stirrup Cay with Norweigian Pearl in the distance


The History of Great Stirrup Cay

Before it became a tropical retreat, Great Stirrup Cay had a long and eventful past:

  • 1600s – A pirate hideout where treasure was divvied up after raids on Spanish Galleons.

  • 1700s–1830s – A British sugar plantation until slavery was abolished.

  • Civil War Era – A Confederate outpost used for trading cotton and sugar for armaments.

  • World War II – A military outpost for detecting German ships approaching the U.S.

  • 1960s – A satellite tracking station during the space race.

  • 1970s – Miami-based Belcher Petroleum acquired an exploration permit before Norwegian Cruise Line leased the island in 1977 and purchased it outright in 1986.

Today, Great Stirrup Cay is a 288-acre island retreat where cruise guests can relax, explore, and enjoy world-class amenities.

Getting to Great Stirrup Cay: The Tendering Process

Since there’s currently no large ship dock, guests must arrive by tender boat from the Norwegian Encore. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Sign up in advance – Register for a tender time via your in-room screen the day before.

  • Excursion priority – Guests with paid excursions get tender priority, while others board later, which may limit island time.

  • Capacity – Each tender holds around 300 guests, so plan accordingly!

Our Experience on Great Stirrup Cay

Once on the island, we rented a clamshell—a perfect spot to stash our gear and relax.

Tim and Kate selfie relaxing in the clamshell
Snorkeling at Great Stirrup Cay

We rented snorkeling gear, which was clean and of decent quality, though well-used. If you’re particular about gear, bringing your own is a great option.

  • The Snorkeling Sculpture Garden – The crystal-clear waters revealed a collection of sunken sculptures with coral growth and tons of marine life.

  • Coral Reef on the Ocean Side – This larger reef had even more fish, though the water was a bit rough.

  • Paddleboard Caution – Paddleboarders should avoid the snorkeling area, as they can be hard to spot underwater.

Food & Drinks on Great Stirrup Cay

With two ships in port and over 7,000 guests on the island, lines were long, but the food and drinks were worth it!

  • Tacos – Delicious and fresh.

  • Bars – Great selection with fast service.

  • Restrooms – Clean and well-maintained.

Heading Back: Tendering Off Great Stirrup Cay

Queue line back to the tender boats
As the day wrapped up, another long line formed for the return trip. Luckily, NCL staff provided water while we waited.

  • Time to leave? – When the Patron Bar and taco shop close, that’s your cue!

  • Souvenir stop – A small tee-shirt shop near the lighthouse is a great place for last-minute gifts.

What We’d Love to Do Next Time

While we had a blast, there’s so much more to experience at Great Stirrup Cay:

  • Swim with pigs 🐷

  • Relax in Silver Cove & Mandara Spa 🏝️

  • Try ziplining 🤩

  • Ride wave runners 🌊

Looking Ahead: The Future of Great Stirrup Cay

NCL is working on a dock expansion, which will make future visits even easier and could bring new attractions to the island. We can’t wait to return!

Final Thoughts

Have you been to Great Stirrup Cay? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments! If you found this guide helpful, be sure to subscribe for more Norwegian Encore cruise tips and travel adventures. See you next time! 🚢🌴

Book a cruise today with Expedia! This is an affiliate link. That means if you click the link and make a purchase, we will receive a small commission. Than you for your support!

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