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Starting March 1, 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line guests will no longer be able to use their More at Sea drink package on the cruise line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.
The update was shared with travel advisors and booked guests through an operational notice sent this week. Until now, the More at Sea beverage package, formerly known as Free at Sea, allowed guests to enjoy drinks both onboard and on the island. That will soon change.
Norwegian confirmed that Great Stirrup Cay will have its own beverage package, expected to go on sale starting January 1, 2026. The cruise line has not yet shared details or pricing for the new island-specific package.
Guests will still be able to enjoy the usual complimentary drinks on Great Stirrup Cay of water, iced tea, and juices.
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A Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson said the change comes as the line continues to enhance the guest experience on its private island. Great Stirrup Cay is currently undergoing a multi-phase transformation that includes a new multi-ship pier, a heated pool with swim-up bars, and the upcoming Great Tides Waterpark. The six-acre waterpark will feature 19 slides, a lazy river, cliff jumps, and a splash area for kids when it opens in summer 2026.
“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,” the spokesperson said.
Many cruisers expressed frustration online, calling it another reduction in included perks after Norwegian recently introduced new fees for additional main dining room entrées and no-show penalties for specialty restaurants. Others acknowledged that similar policies are already in place at other cruise lines’ private destinations.
This latest policy shift is one more in a series of changes that have loyal Norwegian cruisers questioning their loyalty. From new dining fees to adjustments in onboard perks, NCL’s updates continue to spark plenty of conversation among its longtime guests.
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she’s become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She’s always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.
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