Overview
From 1 March 2026, passengers sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will no longer be able to use their onboard drinks package while visiting the cruise line’s private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay.
The change means guests will need to purchase a separate beverage package if they wish to enjoy alcoholic or premium drinks while ashore. According to reports, this new island-specific package will become available from 1 January 2026, though pricing and details have yet to be announced. Complimentary drinks such as water, iced tea and selected juices will continue to be offered free of charge.
Official Communication
NCL has informed travel agents of the change via email, stating:
“We will offer our guests the ability to purchase a new beverage package crafted exclusively for Great Stirrup Cay. Further details will be shared in the future.”
The move comes as part of NCL’s wider investment in its private island experience. A major new attraction, the Great Tides Waterpark, is due to open in summer 2025, covering six acres with slides, pools, and family-friendly features designed to enhance the guest experience.
Passenger Reactions
Unsurprisingly, the announcement has sparked a mix of reactions among cruisers. Some frequent NCL guests are disappointed by the change, while others say it won’t affect their enjoyment at all.
One traveller commented:
“I’m not a huge fan of their island. The beach is too rocky for me.”
However, others were far more relaxed about the update.
“I always get MAS. I don’t want to think about drinks in my bill. But this doesn’t bother me at all,” said one frequent cruiser. “Get off the ship, enjoy the ocean, relax in the shade, have lunch, then get back on board. Your liver will appreciate the break!”
Another guest added:
“Who cares… just don’t have an alcoholic drink on the island. Have three more when you get back on the ship – we’re all grateful to go on a vacation, so enjoy!”
And for some, it simply comes down to value for money:
“We’ve been talking about this for a couple of days now… it sucks, but nothing much you can do. They’re planning to offer a drink package for the one day on the island, but depending on the price, it might not be worth it if you only have a couple of drinks.”
The Bigger Picture
Great Stirrup Cay was the first private island developed by a cruise line, and it remains one of NCL’s signature destinations. As cruise lines continue to expand and monetise their private resorts, this move by Norwegian may signal a shift towards more à la carte-style experiences ashore — similar to those seen on Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.
While some guests will see this as an inconvenience, others may welcome the flexibility, particularly if the new island package is competitively priced.
Changes like this often take time to settle with loyal guests, but the upcoming Great Tides Waterpark and continued investment in Great Stirrup Cay suggest NCL is intent on creating a more premium private island experience. Whether the new beverage package adds value or causes frustration will likely depend on how it’s priced — and how much guests value that beachside cocktail.
