The Happiest Travels on Earth

Headed on an MSC Cruise soon that’s stopping at Ocean Cay? You might be wondering where Ocean Cay even is or what it offers guests. 

Ocean Cay is MSC’s private island that is located in the Bahamas. While it’s not a guarantee you’ll visit Ocean Cay when sailing on MSC, there are a few ships that always visit the island on its itinerary. 

Want to learn more about this new, elusive island in the Bahamas? Keep reading. If you want to learn more about the MSC Meraviglia, visit my full review here. 

Closures Happening in 2024 

Guests with itineraries that usually visit Ocean Cay should be aware of some changes happening in 2024. In an effort to update the island for the flocks of guests that visit, MSC will be closing Ocean Cay from April 7th, 2024 to May 22nd, 2024. Ocean Cay is a newer island so it’s unknown what type of updates will occur at this stage. 

During that time, no ships will be visiting the island. Impacted ships include the MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Divina and the MSC Meraviglia. Please check the MSC website for specific itinerary details. Options for alternative destinations include Nassau or  Freeport in the Bahamas or Roatan in Honduras. 

It’s a Marine Reserve

I bet you didn’t know that Ocean Cay is actually a real Marine Reserve. That’s right, the island is home to a team of marine biologists and scientists who work to attract marine life back to the island. 

When the island was purchased by MSC, it was actually a site of sand excavation. Now, aside from being a tropical oasis, it also allows guests to engage with the Marine aspect of the island by engaging with the marine life. 

It’s in the Bahamas 

It’s interesting to know that Ocean Cay’s Marine Reserve is actually located in the Bahamas. It’s located about just 20 miles from Bimini, another popular Bahamian island and home to Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club. The island is actually one of the closest to Florida, compared to other cruise line private islands. 

4 Ships Visit Ocean Cay 

As we mentioned, not every ship visits MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Currently, there are only 4 that make the voyage to this small island. These include the MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Divina and the MSC Meraviglia.

While of course, other ships could enter the mix and begin sailing to this destination, it’s important to keep an eye on your itinerary to check. 

There are 8 Beaches on the Island 

Believe it or not, despite its small size, Ocay Cay is actually home to 8 beaches. That’s right these 8 beaches include Seekers Family Cove, North Beach, South Beach, Aurea Paradise Sands, Sunset Beach and Lighthouse Bay. 

Guests have their choice of beach that they can utilize. Guests in the Yacht Club will have exclusive access to Ocean House Beach. Those who are in the Yacht Club are escorted over to the area and have use of the amenities in the area. 

If you aren’t in the Yacht Club, you still have a variety of beaches to enjoy. You have the option of renting a cabana, starting at $250. We had the luxury of enjoying one of these cabanas for a group of us and it’s definitely worth a check. Our Cabana was located on South Beach with a clear view of our ship. Right across from the area where our beach was you could find the Yacht Club Beach. 

Variety of Shore Excursions 

If you are interested in doing some activities while on Ocean Cay, you are in luck. There are a variety of unique activities you can partake in during your visit. 

Ocean Cay Lighthouse Climb

One of the beacons on Ocean Cay is its Lighthouse. When approaching the island, you’ll have a beautiful view of it. But, what if you could climb to the top and enjoy those views? That’s right, one option of shore excursion in Ocean Cay is to climb to the top of the lighthouse. 

Marine Reserve Snorkel

Since it’s a marine reserve, you know that the ocean life has to be quite spectacular. That’s why we suggest going to the ocean life and checking them out. The Marine Reserve Snorkel is an all-day rental that allows you to enjoy what’s beneath the sea. 

Beachside Stargazing

There’s nothing like looking up to the stars when on your vacation. Venture to the beach to see the Bahamian skies come to life. Guests are often greeted with a welcome drink and a stunning view of the stars and the planets. 

Sunset Mimosa/Champagne Cruise

End your day with a beautiful sunset on a private catamaran. Sipping a complimentary mimosa or champagne, depending on which excursion you book, you’ll take in the views of the island and enjoy some relaxation. 

There is a Lighthouse Show at Night (Dependent on Weather)

Depending on the weather on the island, guests will be treated to a Lighthouse Light Show on the beach. The island party begins on the beach where you’ll dance the night away as the DJ plays your favorite songs. Then, twice a night, guests will have the chance to see the Lighthouse come to life with LED lights. 

Shopping & Food Abound

If you love to eat and shop, then this island has options for you. In terms of shopping, there’s a line of stores that guests can visit near the ship featuring MSC items and Bahamian items. Unfortunately, during my sailing, there was a bit of a snafu with guests getting back on the ship during a bad rain storm so I didn’t really get to check the stores out. 

Food is another thing available to guests on the island. One of the largest places to get a bite is Seakers Food Court, which offers American and Caribbean classics. There are also a variety of Food Trucks on the island, which we were able to enjoy since they were close to our Cabana. The lines for these trucks weren’t the most organized but got the job done. Bars include the Lighthouse Bar, Springer’s Bar, Beach Bars and the Smiling Fish Bar and Coffee Bar. 

Here is what the daily planner looked like for our day in Ocean Cay. Keep in mind, this was over the summer so some information might vary.

Have you visited MSC’s Ocean Cay before? Let me know in the comments below. 

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