US, Bahamas and Belize Spark Cruise Boom as Norwegian Cruise Line Plans New Island Escapes with Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Aqua Leading the Fleet

Published on April 15, 2025

Norwegian Cruise Line eyes bold expansion with new private islands in the US, Bahamas, and Belize, led by Norwegian Escape and the brand-new Norwegian Aqua.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is setting the stage for an exciting expansion, with its president, David Herrera, hinting at the potential addition of new private islands to the company’s exclusive portfolio. While no official names have been disclosed yet, Herrera suggested that more details may emerge “within the next few months.”

Currently, NCL offers exclusive access to two private destinations: Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize. Great Stirrup Cay spans 268 acres in the Berry Islands and was acquired by Norwegian in 1977 from Belcher Oil Company. Over the years, the island has been transformed into a tropical haven for cruise guests, featuring sandy beaches, snorkeling zones, and traces of a former U.S. military installation, including a helicopter landing area.

Upcoming developments at Great Stirrup Cay promise to elevate the guest experience further. Planned enhancements include a multi-ship pier, a sprawling pool complex, a dedicated adults-only zone, a children’s play area, and a swim-up bar. These upgrades will help NCL stay competitive against neighboring Royal Caribbean’s Little Stirrup Cay—better known as CocoCay—which has already been developed into a major tourist draw.

Meanwhile, NCL’s other private island, Harvest Caye, opened in 2016 and covers 75 acres in southern Belize. It’s known for its all-inclusive, resort-style amenities such as a vast saltwater lagoon, an exclusive beach, a swim-up bar, and adventure options like zip lining and snorkeling along the world’s second-largest barrier reef.

Norwegian Cruise Line remains one of the top players in the global cruise industry, with a market share of 8.6% by passenger volume in 2021. In 2023, the company recorded revenue of £6.5 billion. As of April 2024, NCL’s fleet includes 19 active cruise ships, with eight more under construction.

The fleet’s flagship, Norwegian Escape, can accommodate 4,266 guests at double occupancy and received its latest refurbishment in 2022. Its newest vessel, Norwegian Aqua, entered service in 2024, boasting a gross tonnage of 156,000 and a guest capacity of 3,571.

With new island destinations on the horizon, Norwegian Cruise Line appears poised to redefine the private island cruise experience for years to come.