Norwegian Cruise Line to Introduce Separate Beverage Package for Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is set to change its beverage policy for its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, starting March 2026. Passengers will no longer receive complimentary in-cabin drinks for use on the island, and instead, a dedicated beverage package will be available for booking beginning January 1, 2026. The company stated that complimentary drinks will still be accessible onshore, though specifics about the new package remain undisclosed.
The cruise line has made this announcement in response to evolving customer preferences and operational considerations. A spokesperson from NCL conveyed that the decision was based on a comprehensive evaluation of their policies and the desire to enhance the on-island experience. The new beverage package is being ‘crafted specifically for the island,’ with additional details expected to be released soon. While the details of the new package are yet to be revealed, the company assured that passengers will still have access to complimentary drinks while on Great Stirrup Cay.
Reactions from travelers have been mixed, with many expressing disappointment over the change. In the ‘r/NCL’ Reddit forum, users have shared their frustrations, with one commenter stating, ‘Drink package no longer valid at GSC (Great Stirrup Cay) as of 3/1/26.’ Other cruise enthusiasts have also voiced their concerns, with some suggesting that this change may impact the overall appeal of NCL’s offerings.
The change has also sparked discussions among travel advisers and industry experts. Travel Weekly reported that drink packages remain popular among guests who want to drink freely onboard without worrying about the cost, although there is a growing understanding that these packages are not a one-size-fits-all solution. NCL’s spokesperson highlighted that the onboard beverage package offers an ‘incredible value that far exceeds offerings for land-based getaways.’ The new package, however, will require separate booking, which could affect passenger spending habits and overall satisfaction.
It is also worth noting that this policy change is part of a broader trend in the cruise industry, where several lines have been adjusting their drink package offerings. While the specifics of the new package for Great Stirrup Cay are not yet known, the company’s commitment to providing guests with ‘a transformative experience’ on the island suggests that there may be additional features or services included in the package.
Passengers who have booked trips to Great Stirrup Cay before March 2026 may need to adjust their expectations, as the new policy appears to affect bookings made after that date. The cruise line has not mentioned any grandparenting clause for previous reservations, so it is unclear whether existing bookings will be impacted.
Overall, this decision reflects a shift in NCL’s strategy to cater to different customer preferences and optimize their offerings. While some travelers may be disappointed by the change, others are likely to embrace the new package as a way to enjoy additional amenities on the island. The outcome of this policy change will be closely watched by the cruise industry and its customers alike.