MSC Cruises Announces Major Upgrades to Ocean Cay, Including Pier Extension

MSC Cruises just announced plans for some major upgrades and enhancements to their private island at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas.

Besides a pier extension which will allow more passengers onto the island at once, MSC Cruises is adding more amenities to help handle the passenger flow.  There will be new dining venues, retreats, and cabanas.  The project is expected to be completed in late 2027.

Upgrades and Pier Extension

Right now, the island is limited to docking one ship at a time. Extending the pier will allow two ships to berth at the same time, which is a pretty big deal with MSC Cruises looking to expand itineraries and ships in the area.

The pier work is specifically designed to accommodate the “World Class” ships, such as MSC World America and MSC World Atlantic (set to debut in November 2027).

These ships can carry over 6,700 passengers and will require both the dock space and infrastructure to manage the flow of guests on and off the island.

Development of Little Cay

The channel will need to be widened and made deeper for this project, and MSC will be using the dredged material to develop a second island nearby. Referred to as “Little Cay,” this area will be used as an exclusive retreat.

While we’re still waiting on more details about this second island, the space is planned as an exclusive area for guests sailing in the MSC Yacht Club or with the luxury brand Explora Journeys.  Access to the second island will be taken care of by way of a ferry system operating from the main pier area.

Othe Island Upgrades

In addition to the extended pier, the project will include several new amenities being added to the island:

• Dining and Beverage: 4 new food and beverage venues will be added to the island’s existing layout to handle the increase in passengers.
• Youth and Family Areas: Plans include an expansion of the Seakers Cove area, with a new aquatic splashpad and a ropes course.
• Adult Spaces: A dedicated section of the beach, Paradise Sands, will be renovated to serve as an adults-only zone.
• Environmental Education: The MSC Foundation is overseeing the construction of a permanent Marine Conservation Center. This facility will serve as a base for coral reef restoration efforts and include interactive exhibits for passengers to view the foundation’s biological research.

More cabanas will also be added to the island for a more exclusive experience.  Ocean Cay has seen a lot of changes since its development, and MSC Cruises continues to turn this former patch of sand into a getaway many MSC cruisers look forward to on their itineraries.