Prices are based on availability and subject to change. In 1979, Norwegian Cruise Line installed a stone marker and plaque on the location of his grave. Since the island is uninhabited, your only options for shore excursions are those you book through the cruise line. If you approach the beach in a motorized boat, the feral pigs that live there associate the sound of the outboard with a food handout. Make new friends while you swim with pigs. While tenders run back and forth all day, youll need to wait in line on either end for boats to arrive and disembark passengers before you can board. Dont forget to grab a souvenir! Has anyone tried this yet? Theres plenty of room to dance on the sand, away from the crowds sunning on the beach. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for every situation. All the beauty of Great Exuma is brought to life on this fun-filled adventure. It appears that they acquired a few pigs, not feral pigs found on Exuma. Head to the beach closest to the ship and youll find a viewing platform that you can climb to take a photo. Call us at the number below to speak with a Shore Excursion Specialist. We actually just booked a cruise with NCL with a stop in GSC. Fortunately, one of us decided he wasn't interested in getting in the water and was able to take pictures from the patio. Having food included is one of my favorite parts about cruising :D, Private islands are always the highlight of a cruise for me - they're just so relaxing and a reminder to take things a bit slower. Little Whale Cay . It doesnt get much more relaxing than to float in the water, drink in hand, on your own private mat. If youre simply trying to avoid bread or dairy because its your preference (rather than a medical condition), youll find plenty of meat, fruit, and vegetable dishes that should meet your needs. GSC Villas sell out early because people want that luxury experienceand there are lots of us with pandemic cruise credits looking for a way to redeem our missed vacations. Rentals arent that expensive, and if you are renting a cabana, then you get them complimentary. Whether you want to work on your tan, play on the beach, swim in the water, or find a shady spot under a palm tree, its all here for you to enjoy the paradise. You can rent clam shells or beach umbrellas for shade. Treatment rooms open onto the lagoon, so the island breezes can waft in while you zone out. For a fee you can strap in and set off flying through the air, getting spectacular views of the island and the surrounding water. 15 Things to do on Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian's Private Island) HELPFUL HINTS The newest section of Great Stirrup Cay is the exclusive Silver Cove. SUP is easy to learn, and the staff will give you pointers before sending you out to paddle around Bertrams Cove. The area closest to the entrance of Great Stirrup Cay will have the most people. Ride the Zipline Across the Island Take a Photo on the Swingsets Hogs & kisses from Great Stirrup - Norwegian Cruise Line - Facebook Ultimate Guide to Great Stirrup Cay (2023) - Should Be Cruising Si bien los cerdos son tan mansos como simpticos, exigen un nivel adecuado de conciencia y respeto por parte de los visitantes. (Though why youd spend a day on a beautiful beach watching movies is beyond us!). Just started showing up last week in the cruise planners. Canaveral), FL . Guests who book a villa or a Mandara Spa treatment on the island have access to an additional complimentary restaurant. *Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings. But the place that serves the most cruisers is the buffet. Zipline on Great Stirrup Cay 05 June 2020; Food 10 January 2020; Too crowded with two NCL . Norwegian has a small staff that stays on the island, but there are no permanent residents. BUT the swimming with the pigs tour was ridiculous! Celebrity Edge vs Equinox: Is newer always better? Osprey Zipline ($79/$59 kids) Three easy flights: the first flight south is the tallest at 120 feet above the ground. Early last year you could have enjoyed a Silver Cove Villa for less than half the price that you now see in 2023. This 1.5-hour adventure brings you up-close with swimming pigs as you watch them swim at a private island. Not so when you're on a Bahamas cruise with Norwegian! Smaller boats, known as tenders, ferry passengers to and from the island. Be warned that on NCL ships, Open Tender generally doesnt start until the afternoon. Swim with the Pigs On Your Bahamas Cruise to Great Stirrup Cay | NCL Was looking though and wondering if the studio villa would be better. Along the way, you'll meet the endangered rock iguana in its natural habitat and explore a thriving reef teeming with vibrant marine life. Theyll encourage guests to come up and dance with them. Starting from the 110-foot (33.5 m) replica lighthouse, the new course features 2935 feet (895 m) of zipline! Guests who sign up for a spa treatment have an added perkaccess to the private lagoon and Silver Coves restaurant and bars, normally reserved for those renting a villa. Bonus: Your spa appointment gets you access to the Silver Cove beach, restaurant, and bars, typically reserved for villa guests. It is an hour and a half adventure that begins with a 10-minute boat ride from Great Stirrup Cay to Treasure Island, where the Swimming Pigs live! The ocean swing sets provide a fantastic photo-op if you've been waiting for that picture perfect moment to share on Instagram. I'll have my 8 year old son with me and I want to be sure this is something he'd do, especially if I'm going to spend the money on it TIA Available for purchase through Norwegian, this shore excursion starts at the small marina at Great Stirrup Cay. Great Stirrup Cay isn't Norwegian Cruise Line's only island venture. Of course, when you take a Bahamas cruise with Norwegian, it becomes that much easier to do! Great Stirrup Cay (pronounced "key") is Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas. Tip: If your Bahamas cruise also stops in Freeport, I recommend the Swim With The Pigs excursion that NCL offers thereyou can take unlimited photos and video at no additional charge. You have several options for lunch and snacks on Great Stirrup Cay, including a free buffet. Thanks for stopping by! Located just a short 10-minute boat ride from Norwegian's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, are the Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island!Available for purchase through Norwegian, this shore excursion starts at the small marina at Great Stirrup Cay. Swimming With Pigs in Freeport Bahamas - Should Be Cruising . Located by the Silver Cove lagoon, these villas have two bedrooms flanking a central indoor living space. However, Norwegian is always updating the island and expanding its attractions, so perhaps a pool will make an appearance someday in the future. Pigs have a natural affinity for the water, and when visitors discovered a colony of feral pigs living beachside on Bahamas' Exuma islands, a popular tourist attraction was born. Hold the skewers to the side and away from your body. Announcing Our 2023 Cruisers' Choice Award Winners! This is the only cruise island that offers a Swimming with Pigs Tour! The island features a sweeping shoreline that features several different coves with white sand and gorgeous blue water. There were also hot dog carts around the island when we visited. Youll need to pick up a complimentary ticket with a specific time to board the tender, or you can wait until Open Tender is called. Ver a un cerdo mostrarte una gran sonrisa cuando le masajeas la pancita es una experiencia sorprendentemente reconfortante! As part of their Norwegian Edge program, NCL has spent about $250 million renovating and improving Great Stirrup Cay. Bonus: . They also offer a "Kayak Tour" along the coastline. Swimming pigs in The Bahamas - Berry Islands Forum - Tripadvisor The warmest months are July and August, where highs average 91F (33C). Elizabeth had been ill and hoped that the climate in Florida, where her brother lived, would help her condition. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-leader-3','ezslot_16',605,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-leader-3-0');Cruisers visiting Great Stirrup Cay for the day have a range of activities to choose from, and the island offers something for every activity level and budget. Pick them up at Mat and Float Rentals, across from Bertrams Cove Beach. Despus de recibir ciertas instrucciones sobre cmo alimentarlos, podrs alimentar a los cerdos tranquilamente. Starting about an hour before the buffet opens, youll see open grills where the staff cooks up the jerk chicken fresh. Image courtesy of Tom Roesser, NCL Travel Blog. Since its so easily accessible, its always the most crowded beach as well. Ships sailing to the private island include: Ships from Norwegians sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, make the occasional stop at Great Stirrup Cay, as well. By Great Stirrup Cay & Key West Cruise | Norwegian Pearl | Mon 19th There is no way NCL is sending guests to Rose Island from GSC for a pigs excursion. The island looks beautiful! By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Swimming Pigs Excursion on a Bahamas Cruise, The Bahamas As You've Never Seen It, From A Luxury Crystal Cruise, 8 Perfect Cruise Line Private Islands for Every Type of Traveler, Whale Watching and Other Natural Shore Excursions in the Mexican Riviera: Just Back From Majestic Princess, Havana Cabanas on Carnival Vista and Horizon, Family Cruise Tips from a Disney Mediterranean Cruise, How to Rent Camera Equipment for Your Cruise of a Lifetime. We visited the swimming pigs of Treasure Island on an excursion purchased through Norwegian Cruise Line. Your journey begins on the turquoise sea, sailing past uninhabited islands and cays. To find out more, please. Lagoon One-Bedroom Villas start at $899 and accommodate 10 guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $49 each. fvalanzola@gmail.com, September 18, 2018 in Norwegian Cruise Line. Algunos de los cerdos ms activos se acercarn a ti en la playa, o nadarn hacia ti en las zonas poco profundas, y te olfatearn con sus hocicos. Soar Across Great Stirrup Cay. Take Photos with Pigs. The first burial was Captain Allan Bertram (1790-1834), the namesake of Bertrams Cove. The most disappointing instruction? See Swimming Pigs (not the original Exuma swimming pigs) Bring a swimsuit and towel. Today, it's a regular stop for 13 Norwegian ships, offering guests a straw market, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, and plenty . Day 3 - Great Stirrup Cay. The menu at Abaco Taco is obviously taco-centric. These boats give you a great unobstructed view of the ship for photos, but there are also photo opportunities on the island. Great Stirrup Cay is a tender port- For my fellow first-time cruisers, a "tender port" means there is no big pier to dock at. Lisa says, "It was equal parts exhilarating and terrifying! Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide, Full Ships! Norwegian anchors the ship offshore and smaller boats take guests into shore. Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. Beach access is free, and complimentary loungers are available. Most bars and restaurants are in this area, and restrooms are just a quick walk from the beach. We know that pigs can't fly, but who knew that pigs swim? Tickets with early tender times go fast, so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. There are so many things to do on Great Stirrup Cay, whether you want an active day or just some relaxation! Great story from Channel 8 news just in time for EARTH DAY! This spot has its own private cove with electric blue water and a gorgeous beach, along with its own restaurant, bars, and even a spa. You can pick up Bahamian souvenirs at the small straw market, close to the main beach. Swim With the Pigs ($149/$109 kids): Yes, you can swim with pigs during your visit to Great Stirrup Cay! The big attraction on the beach at Great Stirrup Cay was the zipline. You're even able to purchase photos to remember your time with them. This 1.5-hour adventure brings you up-close with swimming pigs as you watch them swim at a private island. Or maybe you forgot something like your hat or sunglasses? Exuma Tour Boat | The Cays to Exuma | Swimming Pigs One of the neatest things to do on Great Stirrup Cay is something that you cant even see at first glance. I think I'd volunteer for that job if I worked for the cruise line :D Next time I go I'll see if I can get the scoop. Great Stirrup Cay doesnt yet have a pier for ships to dock at, so your ship will anchor offshore. Whilst the duty-free shopping is perhaps the best in the Caribbean, its striking blue water and beaches, like Magen's Bay, are indescribably beautiful. Great Stirrup Cay happens to be located adjacent toLittle Stirrup Cay,home to RCCs private island CocoCay. One tip is to head down the beach some to find smaller crowds. When your heart is as full as a pigs belly, its time to head back to Great Stirrup Cay and induce some serious swine envy amongst your friends and family! If you have your heart set on a day on this private island, you might want to consider booking your cruise outside of this season. Let me know in the comments below! One thing to keep in mind is that you have to be 18 years old to drive the jet ski solo, or 16 if riding with an adult. Soar Through the Sky with a Parasailing Adventure. If a Silver Cove Villa for your family is in your budget in 2023, jump on it before prices go up again. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates. And you should swim with them whenever you can, but you won't get many opportunities to swim with the pigs, so don't miss out . Aqua shoes are recommended. Kids need to be 8 years old to ride as a passenger. NCL - Eastern Caribbean, 7 night cruise from R27 975 pps - cruise only Posted September 19, 2018. They are slightly larger than the Ocean Villas and are located on the lagoon. The tiny island is a 10-minute speedboat ride away from Norwegian's private island, Great Stirrup Cay. You can rent an open-air cabana on the island, starting at $449 for a Classic Cabana that will accommodate six people. I love visiting the ports and spending long days exploring, but private islands are a nice break from the busier days. Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Lines private island in the Bahamas, offers gorgeous white sand beaches, water sports and activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars. 2023 Cruzely.com | Laisman Publishing, LLC, 17 Tips, Answers, and Things to Know About Great Stirrup Cay, Complete Guide to Sailing Norwegian Cruise Line (What Its Like), Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): 10 Major Differences Between The Lines, 17 tips and things to know for the island, 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of), Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America, 107 Best Cruise Tips, Secrets, Tricks, and Freebies, Worth It? You should also get priority tendering with a villa, which is great when everyone's trying to get to the island - it can take hours to get all the passengers tendered over. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pig_Beach. . Great Stirrup Cay Food and Beverages Swimming With The Pigs Exuma - Island Routes The original Pig Beach in The Bahamas is located on the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay. Whats neat is that aquatic life also takes up residence here so you can see some wildlife in addition to the artwork. You won't even get your hair wet unless you purposely dunk yourself into the waist-high water. By continuing to browse the site you agree to our use of cookies. 8 Cruise Line Private Islands You Must Escape To Foot Viewing Deck and also enjoy a refreshing swim in the beautiful blue Bahamian waters. Highlights at Great Stirrup Cay include two lighthouses - a working lighthouse built in 1863 and a new lighthouse . 6. Every major cruise line has (at least) one, and while each is different, they are all desirable places to spend a day. Then I noticed that offerings (and prices!) Starting at: $1,257 Departs: Sailing February 12, 2023 from Orlando & Beaches (Pt. Stingray City Bahamas ($99/$79 kids): Not to be confused with the famous Stingray City off of Grand Cayman where you can feed wild rays, this excursion takes you on a speedboat ride to Stingray City Bahamas. Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. But, to be clear, the experience centers on the pigs doing all the swimming. The beach is certainly family-friendly, and older kids can enjoy the various activities and shore excursions. Its open to all, but its a bit of a walk from the main beach area. Breathe in the salty air as you ride in a boat across electric-blue waters surrounded by wide-open ocean scenery. Call now 01246 819 819 to book. The Bahamas is famous for its swimming pigs, and you can have that experience from Great Stirrup Cay. There are very limited complimentary beverages available with meals: coffee and ice water. Then when your feeding them, you need to be pretty careful they don't confuse your fingers for the beef hot dogs you feed them. If its been a few years since youve visited the private island, youll be amazed at how much its changed while still retaining its charm. Sin embargo, lo que realmente atrae a estos cerdos es la comida! Since Norwegian Cruise Line doesnt run the bazaar, you wont be able to use your cruise card here. The two bedroom family suites hold up to 16 guests. Swimming Pigs Treasure Island - Bahamas Keep this in mind when you ask crew members if you or your group member will be allowed to tender. Cruise Critic makes no endorsements, representations or warranties with respect to the products, organizations or websites referenced in the above article, nor is any warranty created or extended by providing such information, and Cruise Critic shall not be liable for any damages arising therefrom. Prices ranged from $4 for sides to $15 for a cracked conch entre. However, part of NCLs improvement plan for the future includes a swimming pool complex and water features including a lazy river. Great Stirrup Cay offers gorgeous white sand beaches, ideal for snorkeling and swimming with pigs, and the island of Cozumel is perfect for exploring beautiful beach resorts or historic Mayan ruins. But what have I noticed with my first 2023 update? This is entirely for the safety of guests as well as the safety of crew members who assist people entering and exiting tenders. In the exclusive Silver Cove area, theres also the Silver Cove Bar and the Mot Bar. . Water Gear: For swimming in The Bahamas in general, bring along 2 - 3 swimsuits, water shoes, a quick-dry towel, a rash guard/sun shirt, and a sun hat. She passed away during the journey, and her husband hoped to make it to Key West for burial. In addition, your drinks package includes beverages purchased on the island (subject to the same limits and restrictions as onboard), so you dont need to shell out extra for a beer or cocktail on the beach. A staunch advocate of cruising as an ideal family vacation, she has, on occasion, banned her own children from cruising with her. If you have a WiFi package on board the ship, you wont be able to use it on Great Stirrup Cay. Returning to the ship and tendering back to the island likely wont be practical. Stand-up paddle boarding (or SUP) is a fun way to get out on the water, and its a great workout, too! Windjammer III - Florida: North Palm Beach (anchor) Bahamas: Berry Islands, Great Stirrup Cay WP; Bahamas: Douglas Passage WP; Bahamas: Mid White & Yellow Bank WP; Thu 9 Jul 11:15 Bahamas: Exumas, Allens Cay (anchor) Wed 8 Jul 14:10 Travel to a private isle nestled among the northern Berry Islands. About to head to Norwegian Cruise Lines' Great Stirrup Cay? Swimming With The Pigs, a Catamaran and Snorkel Tour, or renting a Private Cabana. Everyone loves dolphins, who also seem to love us. If you approach the beach in a motorized boat, the feral pigs that live there associate the sound of the outboard with a food handout. Access to Silver Cove is limited to those who book one of the villas for the day, and you might find it worth the money. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. We work with reputable, local tour operators to offer you a wide variety of excursions to choose from, in every port youll visit. I recommend taking an inexpensive waterproof pouch that you can hang around your neck. Swimming with pigs via Great Stirrup Cay - Cruise Critic Explore the waters of Great Stirrup Cay by stand-up paddle board (SUP) or kayak. There, guests can interact with and feed tame stingrays in an enclosed area offshore. Youll return via a 105-foot V-net bridge, a 25-foot chimney climb, and two more long zipline rides. Hi Ronald, if you're on the fence about cabana vs. villa (and don't mind spending a bit more), I'd say go with the villa. This 1.5-hour adventure brings you up-close with swimming pigs as you watch them swim at a private island. The second zip-line was longer at 600 feet and the final zip at 600 feet long took you back to ground . Hit the Beach (The water wasn't more than stomach-high on most adult cruisers, but deep enough that the pigs often need to swim.). Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas Swim with the Pigs Excursion | Norwegian Swim with stingrays Swim with pigs Adrenaline-filled Adventures** You can rent snorkel gear (including fins and floating vest) and head out to see what most people dont get a chance to experience. A Fun Beach Day At Great Stirrup Cay Bahamas Clinton Combs on LinkedIn: Las Vegas family-run business reduces food waste by turning food scraps Even the people working at the straw market dont live herethey take the ferry over from nearby Great Harbour Cay. Seahawk Zipline ($89/$69 kids) This zipline also offers three flights, but theyre a bit more challenging. Electronics: To expertly capture your pig island experience, bring along a GoPro Hero 10 Black, a floatie stick, a tripod, and a travel camera.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Holistic Marketing Concept,
Florida Woman September 3,
Anthony's Happy Hour Menu,
Spyderco Police 4 Lightweight Vs Endura,
Articles G
