Overview: 'A very pleasant day at the beach' is the opinion of most
passengers who spend time ashore on the pretty tropical Bahamian
island of Great Stirrup Cay. The island is a private retreat, owned
and operated exclusively for its passengers, by the Norwegian
Cruise Line. Situated in the Berry Island chain, about 50 miles
(80km) from Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay is tiny, surrounded by
powdery white sand, crystalline water and a colourful coral reef
inhabited by schools of neon-bright tropical fish. Inland lush
wooded areas add to the ambience of a true 'castaway' island,
although because visitors usually arrive en masse, tendered ashore
from huge cruise ships, it is a place where it is difficult to play
at being Robinson Crusoe. Still, with hammocks slung under the
palms, plenty of sunbeds and parasols along the main crescent of
beach, and the staff of the ship on hand to cater to every whim, a
day on Great Stirrup Cay can certainly be paradisiacal. The more
energetic and adventurous can take a hike up to the island's
landmark feature, an 1863 lighthouse, to admire some lovely views
and perhaps come across some ruined buildings among the foliage,
legacy of some military occupation and an attempt at settlement in
days of yore. A leisurely swim offshore reveals the wreck of a
small, unidentified craft that provides some interest for
snorkellers.
Shopping: Those who still lack for souvenirs and gifts to take home may
find some worthy Bahamian arts and crafts items at the little Straw
Market, which is set up daily on the island to give the guests a
chance for a browsing break from the beach. Prices, though, tend to
be higher than in Nassau.
Restaurants: Refreshments and a generous barbecue lunch are provided by staff
of the visiting cruise liners, who come ashore with the passengers
by tender and set up a bar and buffet eatery under open shelters
around the beach. The lunch and bottled water is free, but
passengers ashore have to pay for other drinks. A ship's band plays
in the background, and offers entertainment in the form of a limbo
challenge for those who want to work off their lunch.
Nightlife: When the stars come out Great Stirrup Cay remains empty, all the
passengers having returned by tender to their cruise ship.
Activities: You can be as lazy or as lively as you like on Great Stirrup
Cay. Just relax in a hammock or on a lounger and soak up the sun,
or take to the water with a snorkel and explore the underwater
world of fish, sponges and corals. Shore excursions include a
guided outing for experienced snorkellers into the deeper waters,
or novices can receive instruction in the shallows. Those who
rather stay on top of the water can hire floats, inflatable rafts,
paddle boats, kayaks or catamaran sailboats.
Travel Companies
Travel Agents!
Subscribe to Word Travels Professional: Email and print off customised travel guides for your clients.
Brand this guide with your logo and contact details.
Word Travels includes authorative and reliable information on thousands of destinations.
More info Apply for a free trial
