MIAMI — Norwegian Cruise Line will invest $20 million to upgrade its private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay.
The 250-acre island will undergo a two-phase renovation, the first to be completed by fall 2010, and the second by the end of 2011.
"This is a major investment for our company to spend this much money after 14 years of not spending 14 cents," NCL's CEO Kevin Sheehan said at the Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention. "There is no return on this investment. It is strictly to enhance the passenger experience."
During the first phase, which is under way, NCL will create a new entrance channel for tenders and build a new arrival area, allowing for an expansion of the island’s main beach area.
NCL will then build new food and beverage areas, private beachfront cabanas and a children’s play area, among other additions.
The island will have significantly more activities, including a stingray-encounter experience, personal watercraft and a floating Aqua Park.
NCL said that 30% of its passengers visit Great Stirrup Cay, which amounts to about 9,000 people per week.
