Norwegian Cruise Line to End Ship Drink Package Use on Private Island

Norwegian Cruise Line has just made an operational change for Great Stirrup Cay – and not everyone will be happy about it.

Starting on March 1, 2026, the popular “More at Sea” drink package will no longer be usable at the cruise line’s private Bahamas destination.

The popular drink package includes an unlimited open bar for guests over the age of 21 and has, until now, extended from the ship to the shore during visits to Great Stirrup Cay.

“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,” Norwegian Cruise Line announced.

Complimentary beverages, including water, iced tea, and juices, will still be available free of charge on the island for guests who can show their key cards.

Additionally, a new drink package that is specific to Great Stirrup Cay will be introduced in the coming months.

“As an alternative and to provide our guests with the flexibility to curate how they experience 'The Great Life,' we will offer our guests the ability to purchase a new beverage package crafted exclusively for Great Stirrup Cay,” the cruise line added.

Most details about the specially curated package have not yet been released, but it will be available at an additional cost and can be purchased starting January 1, 2026.

Guests React to the Great Stirrup Cay Change

Unsurprisingly, the initial reaction from the cruise community has been one of frustration and outrage. Many have interpreted this operational change as greedy behavior.

“NCL nickel and dimming every chance they get. This is disgusting,” one cruise fan wrote in Cruise Hive’s “Norwegian Cruise Line News, Tips & Chat” Facebook group.

“Screw you, Norwegian. This is a really s— money grab. Your cruises are already ridiculously priced. Here we come, Royal. Done with NCL,” another angry cruiser wrote.

Another posted: “Nickel and dimming people to death. I’ll spend my money at an all-inclusive resort. I don’t want la carte cruise pricing for every little thing. Cruising used to include everything, all dining… and obviously all-inclusive alcohol was one fee, but not buying an additional package at exclusive islands.“

But with big enhancements coming to the exclusive destination, which is located in the Berry Islands in the Bahamas, it only makes sense that Norwegian Cruise Line would need to make some operational changes.

“Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to providing the best vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and at the destinations we visit.

Beginning later this year, we will be rolling out significant enhancements to the guest amenities at Great Stirrup Cay,” NCL stated.

“These enhancements will include a new pier, an expansive pool area with complimentary loungers, a thrilling splash pad area for kids, and more.”

As one of the biggest improvements, the cruise line has invested $150 million to build a new multi-ship pier that will be able to accommodate two NCL ships at once.

The pier is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, making the soon-to-be former tender port more accessible.

In the summer of 2026, not long after the new drink package policy takes effect, NCL’s highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark will officially open on the island. The 6-acre waterpark will feature 19 slides, a lazy river, cliff jumps, play areas for children, and more.