GREAT STIRRUP CAY
Perhaps the most famous occupant of Great Stirrup Cay - located in the Bahamas on Berry Island, 130 nautical miles east of Fort Lauderdale - was Captain Bertram of the British Navy. But Native Americans, pirates and members of the Spanish and American armed forces have also inhabited the cain throughout its history.Norwegian Cruise Line purchased the 250-acre island in 1977 and has invested in numerous significant upgrades over the years. More recently, the island has undergone a major restyling. Its restaurants, bars, cabanas and beaches have all been renovated and expanded, with an investment of over $1 million dedicated only to the new landscape. Other additions include an underwater sculpture garden for snorkelers and a world-class medical center. Thanks to the introduction of new (and abundant) palm trees, there is now much more natural shade from the Bahamas sun, a real godsend from the sky in the middle of summer. Both a zipline and a high-end lagoon area (for passengers staying in the exclusive cabins of Haven) are still under construction and should be completed by the end of 2018. In fact, for most of the day, you might find Fiesta Beach Bay practically covered with palm trees. The sun, food, atmosphere (lots of rum cocktails are served) and snorkeling make this a perfect day out of the ship.