Norwegian’s Drink Package Will No Longer Work on Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line has been changing a lot over the past few years as it struggles to keep up with its competition. One way they’re keeping up is with the big makeover coming to their private island, Great Stirrup Cay. Unfortunately, we just got some bad news about the private island experience.
Norwegian’s Drink Package Will No Longer Work on Great Stirrup Cay
In a letter sent to travel advisors, Norwegian outlined a new change to their drink package that will start March 1, 2026.
Previously, if you had a drink package on the ship, it would extend to the island (similar to what Royal Caribbean and MSC do). Unfortunately, that’s no more.
“Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to providing the best vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and at the destinations we visit… As we look to transform the on-island experience, we have evaluated our policies and made the decision that shipboard beverage packages will no longer be applicable for drinks on Great Stirrup Cay beginning March 1, 2026. Complimentary beverages, including water, iced tea, juices, and more, will continue to be readily available on the island with the use of the guest’s key card.”
Instead, guests are now being asked to purchase a new beverage package specifically for the island. Details on this plan will come in the future, and guests will be able to purchase their package beginning January 1, 2026.
Great Stirrup Cay Enhancements
While the drink package change is a big blow to Norwegian guests, the line mentioned all the enhancements coming to the island.
The biggest change is the dock, which will allow smoother docking and, hopefully, fewer missed trips. That is scheduled to open later this year or early next year.
The Great Tides waterpark is scheduled to open in the summer of 2026, which will also be an additional fee.
Our Take: Cutbacks at Norwegian Are Getting Bad
To be fair, competitor Carnival does not allow its drink package to be used on its private destinations either, which is a point of contention for many.
But overall, Norwegian has slowly been chipping away at the cruise experience. First, they went to once-a-day service and removed Broadway shows. More recently, no printed Freestyle Dailies are delivered, and no top sheets are put on the bed. Guests seem to have taken it in stride, but when does it become too much?
Stay Up-To-Date on Norwegian and Other Cruise News
Following us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
CruiseSpotlight is an Amazon Associate. We may earn a commission when you click links to retailers and purchase goods.
