Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Bahamas leaders broke ground on Friday, January 17, 2025, on a cruise pier at the cruise line’s private destination Great Stirrup Cay. NCLH Group CEO Harry Sommer and Norwegian Cruise Line President David Herrera along with Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, local dignitaries and other stakeholders were all on hand for the groundbreaking.
Speaking at the momentous occasion, Prime Minister Philip Davis said, “It’s great to join you today in celebration as we break ground for a new pier here at Great Stirrup Cay. This pier is just the latest chapter in a beautiful story between the Government of The Bahamas and Norwegian Cruise Lines. For almost fifty years, NCL has invested in The Bahamas, supporting the development of world-class infrastructure, facilities, and experiences. Friends, today we reaffirm our mutual commitment to world-class hospitality, sustainable development, and economic empowerment. Together with forthcoming facilities and state-of-the-art amenities, the pier at Great Stirrup Cay will usher in a new and dazzling destination for NCL guests, as well as numerous economic opportunities for Bahamians.”
The new pier, which is described by NCLH as a “transformational investment,” will serve Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Once completed, the enhancements are expected to significantly boost cruise ship visitor numbers and improve the guest experience. The $150 million project, which will enable two large cruise ships to dock simultaneously and eliminate the need for ship tenders, was announced in April 2024, was expected to break ground in summer of 2024 and be completed by late 2025. Despite the late start, the company still expects it will be completed by the end of this year.
In April, Sommer said, “The new pier will allow for greater guest throughput to the island and better monetization of this key asset.” He added that the new infrastructure would “elevate our guest experience and strengthen our footprint in the Caribbean.”
With the number of cruise visitors expected to double in 2026, other enhancements are also being planned for Great Stirrup Cay as only a small portion of it is developed. Sommer stated the additions would offer passengers “immersive natural and cultural experiences.” Currently, the private destination features a variety of dining venues and bars, beaches, and a range of activities from zip lining to snorkeling and more.
As part of the development, more than $45,000 will be donated to educational programs like scholarships and internships that will benefit local communities and promote long-term growth.