First guests arrive on MSC Cruises' new private island in The Bahamas

MSC Cruises welcomed its very first guests to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its new private island destination in The Bahamas, Thursday (Dec. 5). 

READ MORE: MSC Cruises releases new photos of Ocean Cay

The island’s opening is a "major milestone" for MSC Cruises, the company stated in a release. 

As part of a multi-faceted restoration strategy, MSC Cruises has transformed the island from what was once an industrial sand excavation site into a stunning tropical destination, while working with environmental engineers and other experts to revitalize the surrounding ocean beds, marine life and endangered coral.

The development of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a unique feat, taking nearly three years to complete an island destination capable of delivering the best possible guest experience as well as meeting the company’s  environmental targets - 7,500 tons of scrap metal were removed and, throughout the clean-up process, a team of expert divers and marine biologists removed individual hard coral colonies from debris on the ocean bed and relocated them to an approved location outside the construction area. 

More than 75,000 plants and shrubs planted across the island to create a biodiverse and sustainable environment.

“Ocean Cay is founded on a deep commitment to ecological principles – beliefs that shape everything from how venues are built, to how the island is run, to the kinds of activities featured on the island. Having the first guests arrive on the island is a moment of great pride for all of us at MSC Cruises," stated Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises. "We wanted to create for our guests something sustainable, with a higher purpose. Ocean Cay is not just a vacation island, it is a unique marine reserve where people and nature thrive in harmony.”

Upon arrival at Ocean Cay, guests will be greeted by endless sweeping vistas of crystal blue waters and some of the most pristine white sand beaches. 

From early morning until late evening, they will have plenty of time to soak up the spirit of The Bahamas and enjoy the day as they wish. With many shore excursions to choose from, guests can discover the marine life up close, including snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, and kayaking. 

Guests can treat themselves to a luxurious spa treatment or relax in a private cabana; stroll the Bahamian village with authentic Bahamian arts and crafts by local artisans; grab a bite at the complimentary Seakers Food Court or from one of six food trucks; enjoy cocktails and drinks from multiple bars around the island; and catch one of a kind evening events such as traditional Junkanoo parades, and lighthouse light shows. 

In the coming months, MSC Cruises will also introduce a Conservation Center on the island, which will serve as an active base for coral education and research. 

The unspoiled beauty of the ocean and beaches is at the heart of the Ocean Cay experience, and the eco-friendly and sustainable practices on the island as well as designating the surrounding waters as a flourishing marine reserve are built around MSC Cruises’ commitment to protecting, restoring and conserving it.

Following Thursday's first call to the island, all four of MSC Cruises’ North America-based ships – MSC Armonia, MSC Divina, MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia – will call at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve on different days.

For more information about Ocean Cay, visit mscoceancay.com.

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