Port information & tips for Great Stirrup Cay (Private Island
Great Stirrup Cay is the exclusive island paradise of Norwegian Cruise Line, located in the middle of the idyllic Berry Islands of the Bahamas. The private island impresses with its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a relaxed tropical flair under shady palm trees. Special highlights include the luxurious Silver Cove lagoon with its private villas, the colorful underwater world in Bertram’s Cove for snorkeling, and the high-speed zip-line flights over the entire island. Thanks to the modern Great Stirrup Cay Pier, cruise ships now dock directly at the island, allowing guests a comfortable shore excursion. From this central mooring point, all beach sections, restaurants, and a wide variety of leisure activities can be easily reached within a few minutes' walk.
Great Stirrup Cay is an exclusive private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line in the Bahamas, which can only be reached as a port of call during a cruise. The logical journey for guests from the DACH region therefore takes place via the US base ports in Florida, primarily PortMiami or Port Canaveral near Orlando.
Airplane
Travel from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland is via the major hubs of Miami International (MIA) or Orlando International (MCO), which are regularly served by direct flights from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich. Thanks to the good connections, you can reach the departure ports after a flight time of around ten to eleven hours, with Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) representing an additional, often cost-effective alternative for cruises departing from Miami.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Miami Airport, you can reach the terminal conveniently in about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or via the organized shuttle buses of the cruise lines. Travelers departing from Port Canaveral use the well-developed State Road 528 from Orlando and reach the piers in around 45 to 60 minutes; additionally, spacious parking garages and parking spaces are available at the port for guests arriving by rental car.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the six-hour time difference and to safeguard against potential flight delays, arrival in Florida at least one day before embarkation is highly recommended. Many hotels in Miami Downtown or Cocoa Beach specialize in cruise guests and offer attractive packages including breakfast and direct transfer to the ship, so that the vacation begins in a relaxed manner on land.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Great Stirrup Cay is an exclusive private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line in the Bahamas, which can only be reached as a port of call during a cruise. The logical journey for guests from the DACH region therefore takes place via the US base ports in Florida, primarily PortMiami or Port Canaveral near Orlando.
Airplane
Travel from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland is via the major hubs of Miami International (MIA) or Orlando International (MCO), which are regularly served by direct flights from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich. Thanks to the good connections, you can reach the departure ports after a flight time of around ten to eleven hours, with Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) representing an additional, often cost-effective alternative for cruises departing from Miami.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Miami Airport, you can reach the terminal conveniently in about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or via the organized shuttle buses of the cruise lines. Travelers departing from Port Canaveral use the well-developed State Road 528 from Orlando and reach the piers in around 45 to 60 minutes; additionally, spacious parking garages and parking spaces are available at the port for guests arriving by rental car.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the six-hour time difference and to safeguard against potential flight delays, arrival in Florida at least one day before embarkation is highly recommended. Many hotels in Miami Downtown or Cocoa Beach specialize in cruise guests and offer attractive packages including breakfast and direct transfer to the ship, so that the vacation begins in a relaxed manner on land.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
As Great Stirrup Cay is an exclusive private island, arrival is relaxed via tender boats, offering direct access to all on-site amenities.
Tender Boats
The cruise ships anchor off the coast, and modern tender boats take you on a short ride directly to the island's harbor basin. This transfer is well-organized and allows for a convenient start to your day at the beach.
On Foot
The entire island is excellently developed for pedestrians, and all beaches, restaurants, and activities are easily accessible via paved paths. A walk from the pier to the main areas usually takes only 5 to 10 minutes.
Island Shuttles
Free island shuttles are available for guests with limited mobility or for the way to more distant areas such as Silver Cove. These practical vehicles commute regularly and also ensure comfortable transportation across the island.
On this exclusive private island, it is recommended to divide your day between the lively beach areas and the quieter retreats for a complete Caribbean experience.
Bertram’s Beach
The vibrant heart of the island impresses with its wide sandy beach and crystal-clear water, and thanks to its immediate proximity to the buffet areas, it offers the perfect starting point for a carefree day of swimming.
Silver Cove
This luxurious cove allows guests an exclusive retreat in private villas and, thanks to its own lagoon and first-class service, is ideal for relaxing hours in a sophisticated atmosphere.
Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse
A walk to this historic 19th-century landmark offers fantastic views over the entire island and is also the ideal spot for impressive holiday photos amidst tropical nature.
Silver Cove
The exclusive bay of Silver Cove is located a short walk or a convenient shuttle ride from the tender pier and offers guests a luxurious retreat with crystal-clear water and first-class infrastructure. Thanks to the elegant villas, a dedicated high-quality buffet, and a stylish bar, you can enjoy a particularly peaceful atmosphere directly on the picturesque lagoon. Ideally, take one of the first tender boats in the morning to experience the idyllic setting in complete tranquility, and plan your return to the ship approximately ninety minutes before departure.
The way back to the ship is perfectly organized on this exclusive private island and leads you directly to the central tender station at Bertram's Cove. Plan a little time for the short boat crossing and enjoy the relaxed view of the turquoise blue water.
Tender Service
The tender boats commute at short intervals throughout the day between the island's marina and your cruise ship. You will find the meeting point at the spacious Tender Pavilion, where staff coordinate boarding and ensure a punctual return thanks to efficient processes.
Island Shuttle
Guests spending the day at exclusive Silver Cove or at the more distant beach sections use the island's complimentary shuttle service. The open-air vehicles run regularly and take you comfortably and directly back to the central harbor area.
On Foot
The paved walking paths on Great Stirrup Cay are clearly laid out and lead easily back to the starting point thanks to the clear signage. Since distances on the private island are short, you can reach the tender area from most lounging spots within a few minutes and walk safely through the guarded facility.
