In the cruise industry, NCL and Royal Caribbean have constantly been compared to one another. The cruise lines have been put back-to-back on many occasions, with cruise fans pointing out the differences and similarities between the two brands. From dining, to cabins, in-suite amenities, pools, bars, and even the way the brands renovate their older ships; each and every aspect of NCL and Royal have been picked apart and put head-to-head.
But one of the most interesting examples we can give of the differences between NCL and Royal isn't on the ships themselves...but actually on land. In the Bahamas sits two islands. These islands are just a stone's throw away from one another, and have the same lush vegetation, white sandy beaches, and aqua blue waters...and yet they are very different. The larger of the two is Great Stirrup Cay, owned and developed by Norwegian Cruise Line. The smaller island to the west is Little Stirrup Cay, now known as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island experience.
The size differences between the two islands really does not matter, because both Royal and Norwegian artfully crafted each space to cater perfectly to their clientele. These vibes are really what makes them both stand apart.
Activities
GREAT STIRRUP CAY | Once you are on the island, you can see clearly that it is all about relaxation. The focus is on the white sandy beaches, stretched out as far as you can see, peppered with loungers and shade umbrellas, and lined with palm trees and rentable cabanas. There are a few on-island activities such as the zip-lines that send guests soaring over the island from the famous GSC lighthouse.
PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY | The moment you step off the ship, and make your way up the pier at CocoCay, you realize that the party has begun. Bahamian music and dancers greet passengers as they enter the island, and rising up right in front of you is the entrance to Thrill Waterpark, the intimidating Devil's Tower- home to the tallest waterslide in North America!
Each beach has its own feeling, with some focused on sports, others on partying, and some on relaxation. At the inner part of the island you will find the largest freshwater pool in North America at the Oasis Lagoon, one of the more peaceful and relaxing spots on the island. Adventure is everywhere on CocoCay between the thrilling waterpark, the zip-line excursion, and the helium filled balloon that will take guests high up above the island for the most incredible views.
Exclusive Spaces
SILVER COVE ON GREAT STIRRUP CAY | Tucked away at the end of the beaches on GSC is Silver Cove, an exclusive day-resort with several types of private villas that guests can rent for the day. Only guests who have rented the villa or a spa treatment have access to Silver Cove. This corner of the island has a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, centering around a crescent-shaped beach on a lagoon. There is an infinity pool looking out to the ocean for those who prefer fresh-water, and a large covered patio with lounge seating throughout. Guests can enjoy a delicious drink from the Moët and Chandon Bar at the top of the lagoon, or has a tasty meal of tropical-inspired cuisine at the elevated Silver Cove buffet. There is also a Mandara Spa located in Silver Cove, with a variety of massage treatments guest can book.
COCO BEACH CLUB ON PERFECT DAY | On the south end of the island, guests who purchase a day pass, or have rented a Coco Beach Club cabana will have access to this exclusive space. There are several styles of cabanas, including the famous over-the-water style cabanas, reminiscent of a French Polynesian over-the-water bungalow. The pristine beach is a relaxing reprieve from the rest of the busty island, with comfortable loungers and shade palm trees. Guests at Coco Beach Club can enjoy a highly-elevated meal at the sit-down club restaurant, with cuisine that will make you feel as though you are in a specialty restaurant, but it is included with your day pass! There is a large patio space with first-come-first-serve daybeds and loungers, and a large infinity pool overlooking the beach.
Conclusion
In the end, these two islands are so different from each other, because they reflect how different the two cruise lines are. No one can truly say that one brand is better than another. Each brand was created for a specific type of vacation, and it is up to you to decide which vacation you want to experience.
Booking Your Cruise
Now that you are ready to book your cruise to Great Stirrup Cay or Perfect Day at CocoCay, reach out to the experts at Harr Travel. We know the private islands inside and out, and have a wonderful relationship with the cruise lines. We know we can craft the cruise vacation of a lifetime for you, your friends, family, or group at an exceptional rate, and give you the Harr Travel signature experience every step of the way.
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