Great Stirrup Cay has long been a favourite stop for NCL guests, but the cruise line is taking things to a new level. The centrepiece of the island’s transformation is the Great Tides Waterpark, set to open in summer 2026. Spanning six acres, it will feature eight waterslides, a dynamic 800-foot river, cliff jumps from 10 and 15 feet, and swim-up bars for adults.
For guests seeking exclusivity, the new Vibe Shore Club offers a luxurious adults-only retreat. Families can enjoy the massive 28,000-square-foot heated pool, complete with dedicated splash zones and play areas. The construction of a new multi-ship pier will make it easier for more travellers to access the island at the same time, creating a smoother experience for cruise visitors.
A Campaign with Global Appeal
Developed by Atlanta-based creative agency Super Nice, the “Escape to the Great Life” campaign speaks to a universal desire: the need to step away from the stress of everyday life.
Through humour-filled TV commercials like Great Meeting and Great Dinner, immersive marketing installations, and social media buzz, NCL connects with travellers on both an emotional and practical level.
The campaign’s Escape Hatch symbol — featured across TV, digital platforms, and large-scale public spaces — serves as a playful reminder that a more relaxing, exciting life is just one decision away.
Immersive City Experiences in New York and Miami
In New York City, pop-up activations brought a taste of the Bahamas to SoHo, complete with LED-wall beach scenes, palm trees, ocean scents, and live steel drum music. The event drew thousands of visitors, many of whom entered sweepstakes for a trip to Great Stirrup Cay.
In Miami, installations appeared in hotspots like Wynwood and Lincoln Road, offering hidden “Escape Hatches” where locals and tourists could win vacations. This multi-city approach not only generated excitement but also connected urban audiences with the promise of an island escape.
Digital Reach and Social Media Buzz
The campaign’s hashtag, #EscapeToTheGreatLife, quickly gained traction, generating millions of impressions online. Visitors shared videos and photos from both the island and the pop-up events, amplifying the campaign’s reach far beyond the initial audiences.
Instagram and TikTok played a big role, with content optimised for short-form, visual storytelling. This allowed NCL to connect with younger travellers and families planning future getaways.
Tourism Boost for the Bahamas
For the Bahamas, the campaign represents more than just a brand push — it’s a significant tourism driver. As Great Stirrup Cay becomes a must-visit stop for Caribbean cruises, nearby Bahamian businesses, from excursion operators to artisans, will benefit from the influx of visitors.
Tourism officials note that private island experiences like this help spread economic benefits beyond the cruise lines themselves, as travellers often extend their stays in the region or return for land-based vacations.
A Strategic Win for Norwegian Cruise Line
The early results of the campaign have been impressive. NCL has reported record web traffic since the campaign’s launch, high engagement at pop-up events, and strong interest in future sailings that include Great Stirrup Cay on the itinerary.
By investing in both physical upgrades to the island and a high-impact marketing strategy, NCL is positioning itself as a leader in experiential travel.
Looking Ahead
With construction on the Great Tides Waterpark and other facilities set to complete by 2026, the Bahamas can expect even more cruise traffic in the coming years. For travellers, the promise is clear: a Caribbean escape that blends thrill, luxury, and relaxation like never before.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on a waterslide, sipping cocktails in an exclusive club, or simply enjoying the powder-soft beaches, Great Stirrup Cay is ready to welcome the world to “The Great Life.”
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