Private Islands: Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line
Much of Great Stirrup Cay looks just as it did when it was acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line in 1977. The first uninhabited island purchased to offer cruise ship passengers a private beach day, Great Stirrup Cay’s white sand beaches are fringed by coral reefs and offer an ideal spot for snorkeling amid abundant tropical fish. The “grand-daddy” of private islands is only 120 miles east of Fort Lauderdale in the Berry Island chain of the Bahamas.
Permanent facilities have been added to and improved during the past three decades, but bougainvillea, sea grape, and coconut palms are still as abundant as the colorful fish that inhabit the reef. To reduce beach erosion and preserve the environment, a sea wall was erected along the waterfront. A straw market, water sports centers, bars, volleyball courts, and food pavilion round out the facilities.
What to do there: Snorkel, kayak, parasail, sail, hike; play ping-pong or volleyball; participate in organized games; massages; shop
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