It’s day two onboard the MSC Seashore, and this morning we’re waking up at MSC’s private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. A unique draw for this cruise is that we’re actually docked overnight—as in… we don’t leave until noon tomorrow! That makes for a lot of island time to enjoy the sun, beach, explore what the island has to offer, plus take in some of the evening activities.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, located approximately 65 miles east of Miami, spans 95 acres with 1.5 miles of beachfront. Originally an industrial sand extraction site in the 1960s, MSC Cruises acquired the island in 2015 through a 100-year lease, turning it into a private island and marine reserve. Construction began in March 2016, with a groundbreaking ceremony in October 2016, and the island officially opened to guests in October 2018—delayed from the initial December 2017 target due to development challenges.
Ocean Cay features eight beaches, including South Beach, North Beach, Bimini Beach, and the exclusive Ocean House Beach for MSC Yacht Club guests, with complimentary loungers, umbrella rentals, and cabanas. Two food courts, Seakers and BOHO, provide a complimentary barbecue buffet with Caribbean and American dishes, while multiple free food trucks and one premium truck, the Great Star, offer seafood like lobster rolls.
The Smiling Fish Ice Cream Parlor serves treats, and bars—such as Springer’s Bar and Lighthouse Bar—are spread out all over the island and honor onboard drink packages. Yes, you heard that right—your drink package includes drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) at Ocean Cay, adding extra value considering other lines like Carnival and Holland America do not extend drink package privileges to their private destinations.
There’s also the Spa at Ocean Cay, which offers treatments in beachfront huts, and activities and shore excursions such as snorkeling, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and a lighthouse climb are available.
Over the past 12 months, the BOHO Food Court was added as a second complimentary buffet, which has greatly reduced the lines and seating challenges at Seakers, and opened just in time to welcome MSC’s largest ship, MSC World America, back in April. Additionally, Seakers Cove, which previously was unused, is now a new family area near the lagoon that offers kid-friendly activities.
If you happen to be on a cruise that stays overnight—or at least into the early evening—you can catch entertainment including the Luna Libre beach party, a lighthouse laser show, or even Cigars Under the Stars. Of course, evening events are all subject to change due to itinerary, weather, ship, etc.
What’s Going On Over There?
MSC Group is developing a new island just off Ocean Cay, though specific details remain tight-lipped. Rumors suggest this could be a private island for MSC’s fleet of luxury ships—Explora Journeys—or perhaps an add-on VIP experience. Announced earlier this year, whatever is being built is not small. Even with these pictures taken from the island, you can see the sheer size of it, and zooming in, some structures are already taking shape. It’ll be interesting to see just what’s in store for this man-made island and who it will be accessible to. We’ll just have to wait and see!
Comparison to Other Private Islands
Ocean Cay differs from islands like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and Disney’s Castaway Cay in its emphasis on environmental conservation. CocoCay (125 acres) is a high-energy destination with the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, Thrill Waterpark, a 1,600-foot zip line, and an adults-only Hideaway Beach—catering to thrill-seekers and families. Castaway Cay (3.1 miles long) blends Disney theming with beachiness but lacks a waterpark. Ocean Cay, on the other hand, has no pools or major thrill attractions, but offers eco-friendly experiences like its newly opened Marine Conservation Center and a quieter vibe with pristine beaches.
Ocean Cay has a dock, which means ships pull right up to the pier and you walk straight off the ship and onto the island. Unlike Disney’s new Lighthouse Point—which has faced fiery criticism from cruisers due to the long walk from the ship to the island—once you step off the ship, you’re already at Ocean Cay’s Welcome Center.
Currently, the island can only host one ship at a time. More rumors have swirled about them adding a second dock, but nothing has been announced, and it appears that would be a major infrastructure project requiring significant work to the already narrow channel.
Ocean Cay’s Beaches
Time to talk about Ocean Cay’s beaches and which ones might be the right fit for you. Like I mentioned earlier, there are a total of eight beaches, each with their own plusses and minuses:
Lighthouse Bay – This is what many consider the island’s main beach, and you’re literally swimming right next to the ship! It offers great views of the vessel and is in close proximity to two bars—including the Lighthouse Bar—and food trucks. This beach is the one many gravitate toward; however, it’s important to note that there are no beach loungers or umbrellas here. You’ll find Adirondack-style chairs that are first-come, first-served, but that’s it. This is also the beach where the Luna Libre Beach Party is held at night. The beach is guarded by a lifeguard.
Sunset Beach – A long stretch of rocky beach with no loungers or umbrellas, but there are several bars with seating. This beach is great for chilling and watching the sunset—hence the name. There are plenty of trees to spread out your towel and relax under. While the beach is very rocky, people still head down into the water to cool off. There is no lifeguard on this beach. If you’re looking for a very low-key day, don’t plan on swimming, and don’t mind spreading out a towel, head here.
Seakers Cove – This was an unused lagoon area since the island opened but has now officially been turned into the island’s family-friendly beach. While it does have lifeguards, there are no beach chairs or umbrellas. It’s meant as a place for the family to take a swim, play some beach games, and just hang out while taking a break from another beach.
South Beach and North Beach – These two beaches face the lagoon and are the largest on the island. Both feature beach loungers with umbrellas that you can rent as part of the “South Beach Club” and “North Beach Club,” which are roped-off areas for those who’ve reserved them. These beaches are also where you’ll find cabanas available to rent for the day ($299 as of July 2025). The lagoon is home to some sea life, including a few lemon sharks, which can occasionally be seen swimming around. They pose no threat to humans and help keep the ecosystem balanced. One thing to note about this lagoon—it’s been an issue since the island opened—is sealice. Sealice are tiny jellyfish larvae that sting and cause itching. While uncomfortable, the itching usually only lasts a short time, but many swimmers in the lagoon (myself included) have gotten stung by these critters. Lifeguard stands have a spray you can spritz on yourself if it really starts to bother you.
Bimini Beach – Located opposite North Beach, this ocean-facing beach has lounge chairs and umbrellas for those who prefer the ocean over the lagoon. Unlike Sunset Beach, it’s not rocky and is designed for swimming. It’s lifeguard-guarded and also offers water sports rentals. Cabanas are available to rent here as well.
Paradise Sands – If you’re up for venturing to the farthest part of the island, this is your spot. This beach is mainly used by those spending time at The Spa at Ocean Cay, which is located in the same area. It’s not a large beach, but it’s very secluded and also close to the Wedding Pavilion.
Ocean House Beach – This beach is exclusively for guests staying in the ship’s Yacht Club accommodations. It has loungers, umbrellas, and cabanas available to rent for the day. This beach is lifeguard-guarded and also the location of the Yacht Club’s private restaurant, Ocean House.
Ocean Cay Food
Food on Ocean Cay—whether you get it at one of the two buffet restaurants or one of the many food trucks scattered around the island—is free. A few food trucks offer premium items, such as lobster rolls, but for the most part, all the food (and as much of it as you want) is complimentary.
If you’ve been following along with news on my site, you’ve probably heard that Carnival Cruise Line just opened their new private destination in The Bahamas, Celebration Key. While that destination is loaded with different food trucks and restaurants, visitors only get one complimentary meal from a set menu, which has already caused a bit of complaining. Their CHEERS! drink package also doesn’t work on Celebration Key, so Ocean Cay definitely has a leg up with unlimited free food and a beverage package that works on the island!
What to Do on Ocean Cay?
Relax. Yeah, that’s about it. There are some shops for shopping, bars for drinking, beaches for beaching—and that’s pretty much the vibe. Like I mentioned earlier, there are some shore excursions you can book, including snorkeling adventures, a tram tour of the island, and catamaran cruises. Plus, there are jet skis, kayaks, and other watersports items you can rent for the day.
A visit to the new Conservation Center offers a glimpse into how MSC is working to protect and revitalize coral reefs, both around the island and in other parts of the world. The center officially opened in April to coincide with the arrival of MSC World America.
Ocean Cay Cabana Rentals
One of the things I always do when I visit Ocean Cay is rent a cabana for the day. These tend to book quickly, so it’s best to reserve one in advance if you can—or head to the shore excursions desk as soon as you board.
I checked the MSC for Me app to see if there were any available, and they were listed as sold out, so I headed down to the desk just to double-check. It turned out that there were four available, and I was able to score one for $299.
You don’t get to pick your cabana location—they’re assigned on a first-come, first-served basis when you arrive at the check-in desk in the morning. However, I mentioned that I always like to have a cabana at South Beach around numbers 25–28. I like that location because it’s close to the ship, close to the restrooms, and close to the food truck and a bar! My request was accommodated—I was given cabana 26, which I’ve had many times before—but it’s important to note that specific requests are not guaranteed.
Cabanas include four lounge chairs, two floating mats, a couch, and two chairs inside. You also get a cooler stocked with cold water. They don’t include any kind of butler or beverage service—everything is self-service. Crew members don’t walk the beach taking drink orders. However, in addition to the many bars around the island, there are pop-up bars with a limited selection of mixed drinks, beer, soda, and wine, so you’re never too far from a cold one.
It was ungodly hot and humid, so bouncing back and forth between the lagoon and the cabana was the main activity of the day. Even though the sea lice were out in full force, it was better to deal with a little itching than sweat it out in the sun!
A couple of pro tips for visiting Ocean Cay:
- Bring water shoes. The sand on the island is brutal on your feet—both from the heat and the rocks. Even the most well-kept beaches are rocky, with small stones and pebbles.
- If you’re not from Florida and not used to the sun… wear sunscreen. I’ve seen so many paper-white people leave the beach at the end of the day looking like a can of Coca-Cola.
- If you have the Wi-Fi package, guess what? It does work on Ocean Cay… kind of. It’s very spotty and hard to do anything with, but technically, it’s there. Whenever I needed it, it would cut in and out until I finally said, “Screw this.”
I’m going to get into the evening stuff on Ocean Cay in a bit, so hang tight—but first…
I headed back to the ship around 4 p.m.—a very long beach day. The last hour or so was spent wandering around the island getting my steps in.
Once back onboard, I started getting ready for the evening, which just so happened to be my birthday. Yes, just 8 more years until I can collect Social Security! When I got to my room, a birthday card was on the door—a nice little touch.
Thinking I’d get a spot of good luck for the big 5-4, I stopped by the casino, which is open during visits to Ocean Cay. I charged $100 to my room… and it was gone in less than five minutes with not a single bonus or anything.
Easy come, easy go? Vegas wasn’t built on winners.
If you’re curious about what MSC’s casino program is like and how you earn points toward free cruises, you can check out my article here.
Main Dining Room Menu – Day 2
For those curious as to what was being served in the Main Dining Room, here’s a peek of the Day 2 menu.
Yacht Club Restaurant Menu – Day 2
And for those living the Yacht Club life, here’s a look at what was being served in their private dining room.
Dinner at Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse
I had an 8 p.m. reservation for Butcher’s Cut, the cruise line’s signature steakhouse, but there were some activities on the island I wanted to take part in—including Cigars Under the Stars, the Lighthouse Show, and the Luna Libre Beach Party—all starting around 9 p.m., so an 8 p.m. dinner would be cutting it close.
I headed over to the restaurant around 7:30 p.m. and asked if I could get in early—and it turned out to be no problem.
All the specialty restaurants on the Seaside-class ships—including Seashore—are centralized on Deck 8. With the exception of Hola! Tacos & Cantina, which is in an open-air area near the atrium, Butcher’s Cut, Kaito Sushi, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Ocean Cay Seafood are all located in one area in their own dedicated space, making it super convenient and easy to remember where they all are.
Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse Menu
Butcher’s Cut will set you back $55 per person and features a fixed-price menu that includes a starter, entrée, two sides, and dessert. There are additional upcharge items available. You can pay the $55 per person price, or you can use one of your dining credits if you purchased the 2- or 3-night specialty dining package.
The restaurant itself has that classic steakhouse vibe—dark wood, dim lighting—and believe it or not, it has more tables than the Butcher’s Cut locations on the World-class ships, which carry far more passengers!
I was taken to a table with a bird’s-eye view of the open kitchen, where I got to watch the team of chefs preparing dinner for a semi-busy restaurant.
I started off with the $20 add-on of the Wagyu Tartare. At first, there was a bit of confusion about whether they had it that night or not, but after my server checked with the chef, we were good to go.
The tartare was like butter and topped with Ossetra caviar, giving it a nice salty touch.
Next up was a shrimp cocktail with five large shrimp served with both cocktail and Louis sauce.
For the main course, I ordered the 14oz New York Strip. It was perfectly seasoned, cooked a perfect medium rare, and absolutely delicious. I ordered a loaded baked potato and mushrooms as my sides, but for some reason, that loaded baked transformed itself into mashed potatoes when it arrived at the table.
When it came time for dessert, I was going to skip it—but my server kept twisting my arm for some reason and insisted I try the Banana Date Cake. So I gave in. I quickly figured out why he was being so persistent—before I knew it, a group of servers had surrounded my table singing Happy Birthday and presenting me with a birthday cake!
The service throughout the evening—as well as the food—was excellent! Plus, the timing worked out perfectly for me to head off the ship and enjoy some of the nighttime fun back on the island.
Evening Activities on Ocean Cay
Since this was an overnight stop at Ocean Cay, activities were scheduled later into the evening than usual. First up was the first of two Lighthouse Shows. The lighthouse on Ocean Cay is the island’s icon—it’s decorative rather than functional for navigation. As I mentioned earlier, you can take a tour during the day and climb all the way to the top for some incredible views of the island. But when the sun goes down, the lighthouse becomes the centerpiece of a laser light show. You can check out a video of it from a previous visit below.
If you happen to miss the 9 p.m. show, a second performance is typically scheduled at 10 p.m.
Also on the agenda was the Luna Libre Beach Party at Lighthouse Bay. This DJ-led dance party draws a solid crowd, mainly families and teens, all enjoying the music, sand, and nighttime energy.
No beach party for me, though—I headed over to the Lighthouse Bar for Cigars Under the Stars, a fairly new event that’s not yet featured on all ships. Cruise Director Neil Dixon told me he worked with the ship’s Hotel Director to bring this concept to life, and it’s been a hit ever since.
Due to local regulations, cigars can’t be purchased on the island, but you can buy them onboard from the shops on Deck 6 before heading out. At the event, a saxophone player provides live music while a curated selection of whiskey and bourbon is featured at the bar.
It was a great way to wrap up the day—enjoying a cigar, sipping whiskey, and listening to smooth jazz literally under the stars while lasers from the lighthouse lit up the sky and distant lightning from a storm off the Florida coast added a bit of natural fireworks about 50 miles away.
After everything wrapped up, I headed back to the ship. Tonight, all onboard services were being curtailed at 12:30 a.m. because the ship was scheduled to conduct a blackout test, where electrical systems are temporarily shut down between 1:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. That meant no elevators during that time and only low-level lighting throughout the ship. Fortunately, there was no interruption to air conditioning or toilets—so no poop cruise issues here!
We’re scheduled to depart Ocean Cay at noon tomorrow, so I’ll share a bit more from the island then.
As always, thanks for following along!
Daily Planner Day 2
