Great news for those planning a trip to MSC Cruises’ private Bahamian island, Ocean Cay! MSC Cruises is elevating its dedication to sustainable tourism and local community enhancement with a significant development initiative at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This exciting project was announced at a ceremony in Bimini, attended by The Bahamas’ Prime Minister and government leaders.
The new development aligns perfectly with MSC Cruises’ vision of positively impacting the environment and the communities in The Bahamas. The plan promises significant economic benefits for the region, including job creation both during the construction phase and for ongoing operations on the island.
What’s in store for MSC Cruises’ guests? The island will see an array of enhancements, including additional guest amenities, new facilities for staff, and upgrades to the environmental, operational, and technical infrastructure.
Visitors can look forward to an enriched experience with the introduction of new excursion centers supporting various water sports activities and island tours. There will also be a sea dive and snorkel center, along with additional dining and beverage options, among other facilities.
A key highlight of the development is the establishment of the MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre. This center will serve as a base for biologists, coral reef experts, and students, featuring interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, and coral exhibition tanks. It aims to educate guests on the critical importance of marine ecosystems and the urgent need to protect our oceans.
The MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Program, a significant initiative in understanding coral reef resilience in the region, is based on the island. This program is instrumental in addressing changes in the thermal resilience of coral reefs across the tropical Western Atlantic. The thriving coral nurseries at Ocean Cay are a beacon of hope for the restoration of these endangered ecosystems.
In its pursuit of environmental sustainability, MSC Cruises will install a third solar farm and an advanced wastewater treatment plant on Ocean Cay. The development also includes a comprehensive landscaping plan that focuses on native and adaptive vegetation to enhance the island’s ecological health.
The project will also see an expansion in accommodations for island staff, with staff numbers expected to almost double.
Continuing its commitment to social responsibility, MSC Cruises has pledged to support the LJM Maritime Academy and the University of The Bahamas, aiding Bahamians interested in maritime careers.
Since transforming Ocean Cay from an industrial site into a thriving marine reserve and private island destination in 2019, MSC Cruises has won several awards for tourism and environmental stewardship.
Lastly, MSC Cruises is set to deploy its largest capacity in the North American market during the winter 2023-24 season, with five ships – including MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape, and MSC Seashore – all visiting Ocean Cay. This development marks a significant milestone in MSC Cruises’ journey towards sustainable and responsible tourism.