MSC Cruises' Private Island Paradise
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises’ exclusive private island in the Bahamas, offering an indulgent escape in a truly spectacular Bahamian setting. Once an industrial sand excavation site, MSC Cruises undertook a significant $200 million transformation project to create this world-class cruise destination, welcoming its first guests in December 2019.
This blissful getaway is accessible only to MSC Cruises guests, providing your own exclusive slice of paradise to explore at leisure. Ocean Cay invites you to connect with its natural beauty and the warmth of the Bahamian spirit, all within an ecologically intelligent atmosphere.
Island Delights: Food, Drink & Activities
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve was created in order to offer passengers the perfect blend of Caribbean relaxation and endless entertainment, with a fantastic choice of food and drink options, many of which are included in your cruise fare.
Complimentary Dining Options
On Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, guests can satisfy their Caribbean cravings with diverse food options. Complimentary barbecue classics, North American dishes, and Caribbean favourites are available at Seakers Food Court, which also offers choices for children. Food trucks scattered across the island provide convenient snacks such as hot dogs and burgers from complimentary trucks, with some offering lighter choices like salads or upscale items such as ceviche for purchase. For an exclusive experience, MSC Yacht Club guests enjoy access to the Ocean House Restaurant, providing carefully prepared specialty dishes and drinks in a serene, oceanside setting.
Discover complimentary dining options Seakers Food Court on Ocean Cay
Drinks & Beverage Packages
Your onboard MSC Cruises beverage package, including Easy and Premium packages, extends to Ocean Cay, allowing you to take advantage of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks whilst ashore. The island features 10 bars, including Springer's Bar for a Bahamian feel, the Lighthouse Bar with live music and cocktails, and The Smiling Fish for coffee and ice cream. Complimentary water is readily available at bars, buffets, and fountains to keep you hydrated. For an elevated experience, MSC Yacht Club guests have access to a private bar at Ocean House.
Springer's Bar on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Thrilling Activities & Relaxation
Ocean Cay offers an array of activities for both relaxation and adventure. Guests can lounge on seven pristine beaches, including Sunset Beach for evening views and North/South Beach for swimming and watersports. Watersports like snorkelling, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and windsurfing are available, with equipment for rent or guided excursions. For tranquillity, private cabanas can be rented on North, South, and Bimini beaches, offering cushioned furniture, floating mats, snorkelling gear, and complimentary refreshments. The island features a premium spa for massages and sunset yoga in beachside cabanas. Unique experiences include night-time stargazing and ascending the Lighthouse for panoramic views. Live music and a spectacular twice-daily LED light show at Lighthouse Bay Beach provide entertainment.
Lighthouse light show on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
MSC Yacht Club: Exclusive Island Luxury
For guests seeking an even more elevated experience, the MSC Yacht Club extends its renowned onboard luxury to Ocean Cay. Members enjoy exclusive access to Ocean House Beach, a private and serene cove with superb ocean views and special beachfront cabanas, complete with complimentary amenities. The Ocean House Restaurant, also exclusive to Yacht Club guests, offers carefully prepared speciality dishes and drinks in a stylish, oceanside setting. Additionally, Yacht Club guests benefit from their very own private bar on the island, further enhancing this private world of privileges.
What Makes Ocean Cay Different?
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve stands out as MSC Cruises' private island due to its deep commitment to ecological principles and marine conservation. Unlike many islands requiring tenders, MSC Cruises ships dock directly at the quay, allowing guests to step straight onto the island's Welcome Centre and begin exploring its 95 acres and over two miles of pristine beachfront.
Formerly a sand excavation site, MSC Cruises undertook extensive clean-up efforts, removing 7,500 tons of scrap metal and implementing a marine restoration programme, including a successful Super Coral Programme where 100% of nursery corals survived the 2023 heatwave. This dedication earned Ocean Cay the prestigious designation as a 'Hope Spot' by Mission Blue, highlighting its role in ocean health. The island integrates its conservation efforts with edutainment programmes for guests to learn about ocean protection, offering a truly immersive and ecologically intelligent escape.
Ready to experience this unique, eco-conscious private island? Book your next Caribbean cruise today and discover the natural beauty and immersive experiences awaiting you at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve!
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Frequently Asked Questions
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises' private island in the Bahamas, exclusively for MSC Cruises guests, offering pristine beachscapes and a host of island charms. It provides a unique blend of relaxation and activities in an ecologically intelligent atmosphere.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is part of the Bimini group of islands in the western Bahamas, located approximately 65 miles (100km) east of Florida's coastline, and about 20 miles (30km) south of the main Bimini islands.
MSC Cruises' ships dock directly at the quay at Ocean Cay, allowing guests to step straight off the ship onto the island's Welcome Centre without the need for tender boats. This direct access makes exploring the island easy and quick.
Yes, your MSC cruise ship remains accessible at all times during your visit to Ocean Cay. Onboard restaurants, entertainment, and activities will continue to operate, allowing guests the flexibility to move between the island and the ship as they wish.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve spans approximately 95 acres, including just over two miles of exquisite beachfront. You can easily navigate the island, with the furthest point being only a 20-minute walk from the arrival quay.
Ocean Cay boasts seven pristine beaches, each offering a unique experience. These include Sunset Beach, North Beach, South Beach, Lighthouse Bay Beach, Bimini Beach, Paradise Sands Beach, and the exclusive Ocean House Beach for MSC Yacht Club guests.
Yes, if you have purchased an Easy or Premium beverage package onboard your MSC cruise, it is fully valid on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Complimentary water is also widely available.
Ocean Cay offers a wide range of activities for all interests. You can relax on seven stunning beaches, indulge in watersports like snorkelling, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and windsurfing, or rent a private cabana for ultimate comfort. Unique experiences include night-time stargazing, ascending the Lighthouse for panoramic views, and enjoying live music or the LED light show.
Yes, Ocean Cay features a premium spa where you can book massages and other rejuvenating treatments in beachside cabanas, using eco-friendly products. Sunset yoga is also available for a truly serene experience.
Yes, a fine selection of food is available. Complimentary barbecue classics and Bahamian favourites are served at Seakers Food Court. Additionally, food trucks scattered across the island offer complimentary snacks like hot dogs and burgers, and some provide upscale items for purchase.
Yes, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is equipped with Wi-Fi. Internet packages can be purchased before your cruise or once onboard the ship.
Yes, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a family-friendly island. Dedicated entertainment for families and children is often scheduled on the beaches.