Major Upgrades to MSC Cruises Ocean Cay

MSC Cruises Announces Major Upgrades to Ocean Cay, Including New Guest Experiences and Extended Pier

MSC Cruises has announced a significant expansion and enhancement of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its private island destination in The Bahamas, with new guest facilities and an extended pier slated for completion in late 2027.

Ocean Cay, which opened in late 2019, has quickly become one of the most popular stops on MSC Cruises’ Caribbean itineraries. Once a former industrial site, the island was transformed by the cruise line into a pristine marine reserve, reflecting MSC’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and ocean conservation. Today, the destination is known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and relaxed island atmosphere.

SEAKERS COVE- FAMILY BEACH

Spanning more than two miles of beachfront across eight beaches, Ocean Cay currently offers a wide variety of experiences designed for guests of all ages. Existing amenities include multiple swimming and relaxation areas, seven bars, the Seakers Food Court, food trucks, and a broad selection of shore excursions ranging from snorkeling and watersports to lighthouse climbs and wildlife encounters.

Beginning in late 2027, guests can expect a wave of new features designed to elevate the overall island experience. Among the highlights are four additional dining venues, expanding the island’s culinary offerings to a total of seven. These will include a new signature specialty restaurant, along with expanded buffet and food market-style options.

Families will see major enhancements at Seakers Cove Family Beach, including a new playground, splashpad, and ropes course with water elements. The area will also introduce interactive games such as ping-pong and foosball, as well as organized activities, tournaments, and family-friendly programming designed to appeal to multiple generations.

Paradise Sands - Adults Only Beach Retreat

For adult guests, MSC Cruises will debut Paradise Sands, a new adults-only beach retreat. The space will offer a tranquil environment for daytime relaxation, then transform into a lively sunset venue ideal for cocktails and socializing.

Luxury options on the island will also expand with the introduction of additional cabanas, offering guests more private, premium relaxation options throughout the island.

Another major addition will be the MSC Foundation “Shifting Perspective” Marine Conservation Experience, an immersive attraction focused on environmental education. Through hands-on exhibits and interactive programming, guests can explore coral restoration efforts, scientific research initiatives, and the broader marine ecosystems surrounding the island.

In parallel with the guest experience upgrades, construction is already underway to extend Ocean Cay’s pier. Once completed in late 2027, the enhanced pier will allow two ships to dock simultaneously. As vessels dock directly at the island, guests will continue to enjoy easy walk-off access without the need for tender boats.

SEAKERS COVE FAMILY BEACH

CURRENT AMENITIES

🏖️ Eight white-sand beaches

🌊 Crystal-clear swimming areas

🍹 Seven bars across the island

🍔 Seakers Food Court & food trucks

🤿 Snorkeling & watersports

🗼 Lighthouse climb & wildlife viewing

😌 Relaxation zones throughout the island

🚶 Walk-off pier access

🌱 Marine reserve setting

COMING BY LATE 2027

🌞 Paradise Sands adults-only beach

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Upgraded Seakers Cove Family Beach

🛝 Playground

💦 Splashpad

🧗 Ropes course

🍽️ Four new dining venues

⭐ Signature specialty restaurant

🥗 New buffets & food markets

🍸 Additional bars

🏖️ More luxury cabanas

🐠 MSC Foundation “Shifting Perspective” marine conservation experience

🛳️ Extended pier for two ships

MSC Cruises also confirmed that development of a second private island adjacent to Ocean Cay continues. Currently known internally as Little Cay, the destination remains unnamed but is expected to follow the same nature-forward philosophy as Ocean Cay, combining pristine beaches, ocean-focused experiences, luxury amenities, and water features.

Together, these developments reinforce MSC Cruises’ long-term vision for Ocean Cay as a flagship private island destination—one that balances relaxation, entertainment, and environmental stewardship while accommodating the cruise line’s growing presence in the Caribbean.

**Photos Courtesy of MSC Cruises