Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is set to revolutionize the guest experience at Great Stirrup Cay, its private island in the Bahamas. With the construction of a two-ship pier expected to commence this summer and be completed by late 2025, NCLH anticipates a significant increase in guest counts. Currently, the island can only be accessed via tender boats from cruise ships. However, the new pier will not only enhance guest throughput but also improve the overall monetization of this valuable asset.
According to Harry Sommer, NCLH CEO, the new infrastructure will elevate the guest experience and strengthen the company’s footprint in the Caribbean. With approximately 400,000 passengers visiting the island in a typical 12-month period, a projected 50% increase post-pier completion would raise that number to about 600,000 per year starting in 2026. This growth aligns with NCLH’s ambitious expansion plans, including the delivery of eight new ships between 2026 and 2036.
One of the key benefits of having a pier at Great Stirrup Cay, as highlighted by Sommer, is the ability to minimize missed calls due to rough seas. Currently, tendering to the island can be challenging during inclement weather conditions, leading to guest dissatisfaction. By ensuring that ships can dock at the pier, passengers will have consistent access to the island’s offerings, including ziplines, cabanas, a spa, a private beach, and various watersport activities like jet skis and swimming with pigs. The reliability of visiting the island every time will undoubtedly lead to higher guest satisfaction scores and increased revenue for NCLH.
The completion of the pier at Great Stirrup Cay will not only benefit passengers but also streamline NCLH’s cruise itineraries. With the assurance of being able to visit the island without the risk of cancellations, the company can further enhance its overall guest experience. Sommer highlighted that Great Stirrup Cay is already one of NCLH’s top-rated ports in the Caribbean, and the new pier will only solidify its position as a premier destination for cruise travelers.
The construction of the two-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay represents a significant milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. By investing in this infrastructure upgrade, NCLH is poised to unlock greater growth opportunities, improve guest satisfaction, and drive incremental yields across its brands. As the company looks towards the future, the transformation of Great Stirrup Cay is set to be a game-changer in the competitive cruise industry landscape.