Norwegian Cruise Line Opens Great Life Lagoon, Splashpad, and More on Private Island

Guests sailing to Norwegian’s island Great Stirrup Cay will now have complimentary access to a 28,000-square-foot heated pool called the Great Life Lagoon, just a short walking distance from their ship, thanks to a newly-built pier. Designed and engineered by Martin Aquatic, the Great Life Lagoon includes a Swim-Up Bar on either end, as well as a family-friendly zero entry with bubbling water nozzles to entertain the littlest cruise guests. The entire body of water is powered by Martin Aquatic’s patented technology, Blue Mar Basins®, ensuring the highest level of water quality. As well, the lagoon is fitted with 40 Blue Mar Nova Bright White lights, helping to extend the length of visit for wintertime travelers staying past sunset.

As another free amenity for Norwegian guests, Martin Aquatic designed a playful splashpad for young children and their families to enjoy adjacent to the lagoon. With three pint-sized slides, a tipping bucket, and soft safety surfacing from Life Floor, this new area dubbed ‘Splash Harbor’ will be a new family favorite.

These amenities are driving incredible demand for cruises to Great Stirrup Cay, and Norwegian has announced that more than 1 million guests will be visiting the private island across 17 ships in 2026.

The Phase 2 expansion will include the six-acre Great Tides Waterpark boasting an iconic slide tower with body slides and multi-person raft rides, a large kids wet play structure, and an 800-foot dynamic river with an illuminated media tunnel for a multi-sensory experience.