MSC Cruises Reveals Catalina Sugar Beach, Opening in November 2026
- Cruise Ship Crayz News Team
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
MSC Cruises has revealed new details about Catalina Sugar Beach, the enhanced beach destination opening on Catalina Island in the Dominican Republic in November 2026.
Located just off the coast of La Romana, Catalina Sugar Beach is being developed in partnership with CTL Maritime and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas. The project will introduce new dining, bars, cabanas, water sports and upgraded facilities while preserving the island’s natural Caribbean setting.
The destination will welcome cruise travelers sailing with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, along with visitors staying at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.
MSC Cruises will begin operating weekly cruises from its new La Romana homeport in November 2026. MSC Opera will visit Catalina Sugar Beach on every itinerary during its year-round Southern Caribbean deployment.
What Is Coming to Catalina Sugar Beach?
Catalina Sugar Beach is designed as an elevated beach escape centered around Catalina Island’s white-sand shoreline, turquoise water and protected natural landscape.
The destination’s central dining venue will be a signature open-air beach pavilion serving a buffet of international dishes and Dominican specialties. A neighboring shaded dining area will provide al fresco seating overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Two bars are also planned, including a tropical open-air palapa bar that will serve refreshments while functioning as a shaded gathering place with ocean views.
New Cabanas and Water Sports
Travelers will be able to rent cabanas and comfortable daybeds for a more private and relaxed day at the beach.
A dedicated water sports center will serve as the starting point for activities in the waters surrounding Catalina Island, with equipment available to rent.
Changing areas, showers, and restrooms across the destination will also receive upgrades as part of the project.
A New Nature Pathway and Scenic Viewpoint
A picturesque pathway will wind through Catalina Island’s tropical landscape and lead to a dramatic viewpoint overlooking the beach.
Educational signs placed along the route will introduce visitors to the island’s diverse tree species and natural environment. Elevated clearings within the vegetation will offer additional views of the shoreline and surrounding landscape.
Shore Excursions From Catalina Sugar Beach
A collection of shore excursions will allow travelers to explore Catalina Island and other attractions around the Dominican Republic.
Planned experiences include:
Catamaran trips through the waters surrounding Catalina Island
Snorkeling among the island’s marine life
Boat excursions to Saona Island
Visits to the Cave of Wonders
Trips to Altos de Chavón
Travelers who prefer to remain at Catalina Sugar Beach will be able to spend the day enjoying its upgraded beach amenities, dining venues and rental cabanas.
MSC Opera Begins Year-Round La Romana Cruises
The opening will coincide with MSC Cruises launching year-round sailings from La Romana for the first time.
Beginning in November 2026, MSC Opera will operate weekly Southern Caribbean departures from the Dominican Republic. Travelers can book seven-night itineraries or combine consecutive sailings into a 14-night “butterfly” cruise featuring two connecting routes.
Every itinerary will include a visit to Catalina Sugar Beach.
Explora Journeys will also visit the destination on select Caribbean Journeys.
MSC Cruises’ official itinerary information currently lists Catalina Island calls beginning in November 2026, with the island typically scheduled as a tender destination.
