Ocean Cay: An MSC Private Island Paradise

Ocean Cay is a beautiful private island exclusively for MSC guests in the Bahamas. Located just 65 miles from Miami, this island has amazing beaches and stunning turquoise blue waters. It's the perfect place to enjoy a day in the sun and the waves.
After investing $300 million in transforming Ocean Cay into a stunning tropical paradise, MSC opened the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in December 2019, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly practices and marine conservation.

Ocean Cay Overview

Situated conveniently close to Miami, Ocean Cay's strategic location allows cruise ships to dock overnight, providing guests with an extended island experience. The island is a private paradise meticulously crafted by MSC, featuring not only extensive beaches but also a transformative inner lagoon designed to provide a calm water haven, ensuring swimming and snorkeling regardless of sea conditions.

Things to Do on the Island

Beaches & Swimming

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve boasts a variety of pristine beaches, each with its own unique character and amenities. For instance, Lighthouse Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with a stunning view of the docked ship and lighthouse. South Beach is another popular spot with calm water and expansive sand, while Bimini Beach is renowned for its pristine and clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. North Beach is more secluded and quieter, perfect for those who want to escape the crowds, and Seakers Family Cove Beach is family-friendly with a playground and a kids club for the little ones. Meanwhile, Ocean House Beach is exclusive to Yacht Club guests, offering a premium section of the cruise ship with a pool, jacuzzi, and private cabanas by the beach. Regardless of which beach visitors choose, they can expect a picturesque and memorable experience on Ocean Cay.

Lighthouse Shows:

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve offers an array of nighttime activities catering to cruise passengers seeking after-dark entertainment. Among the highlights is the mesmerizing light show visible from Lighthouse Bay, captivating visitors with its stunning visual display. Additionally, the island hosts a vibrant Junkanoo party, an exuberant Bahamian celebration featuring lively music, dancing, and colorful costumes, creating an immersive cultural experience. To enhance the evening ambiance, beach fire pits offer a cozy gathering spot for guests to unwind under the starlit sky, fostering a relaxed and serene atmosphere perfect for nighttime relaxation and socializing.

Snorkeling/Diving

Explore the rich marine life with available equipment to rent and dive excursions.

Shops and Village

Ocean Cay Village houses shops, the MSE Foundation supporting marine life preservation, and the MSC Excursions Pavilion. When you go shopping at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, you get to experience the authentic culture and crafts of the Bahamas. The Ocean Cay Village has a bunch of cool shops where you can explore and buy unique souvenirs, local crafts, and products. The shops are a nice break from the hot sun because they have air conditioning, which makes it comfortable to look at all the beach stuff and cool things to remember your trip. It's a great opportunity to bring home a piece of the Bahamas, discover special cultural artifacts, and support local artists.

What to Eat/Drink on Ocean Cay

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve offers a variety of bars and restaurants, ensuring that visitors will never go hungry or thirsty while on the island. Seakers Food Court is the main buffet area where guests can choose from a range of international and local dishes, including burgers, dogs, pasta salads, and more. Several Beach Shacks, named after the Caribbean-style vending trucks, are also available around the island. These food trucks feature menu options such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and pasta salad for non-meat eaters. Beverage-wise, several bars are spread around the island, offering a wide range of drinks, including the popular beach drinks served in a souvenir pineapple cup. Lighthouse Bar is a cozy spot near Lighthouse Bay where guests can sip cocktails while enjoying the breeze. For Yacht Club guests, the exclusive Ocean House Beach has a restaurant and a bar where guests can enjoy premium dining and drinks. Don’t forget to check out The Smiling Fish & Coffee Bar (extra cost). Choose from freshly brewed espressos and lattes, refreshing iced coffees and signature tropical fruit smoothies. For those seeking a little extra indulgence, the bar also offers several flavors of ice cream to help cool things down after being in the hot sun.

Things to know

Facilities on Ocean Cay include restrooms, showers, and water fountains available at various points. Wi-Fi can be accessed using the ship's internet package. Trams are provided for travel throughout the island. The drink packages also extend to Ocean Cay. Guests are advised to bring their cruise-supplied beach towel or can grab one near the pool on the way off the ship. Cash is not necessary as the room keycard works for most transactions. There is limited natural shade on the beaches, so visitors should consider renting an umbrella. Be careful of trams and golf carts sharing the walkways as you make your way around the island.

Ocean Cay is a private island paradise crafted with meticulous detail, offering diverse experiences for every MSC cruise enthusiast. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, Ocean Cay delivers a unique and memorable Caribbean escape. Explore, indulge, and bask in the sun, sand, and sea on this extraordinary MSC private island.