Ocean Cay Marine Reserve - MSC Cruises' Private Island
Escape to paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises' exclusive private island destination in the heart of the Bahamas. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches, this stunning retreat offers guests a chance to unwind, explore, and connect with nature-all just a short sail from Miami or Port Canaveral.
Unlike traditional cruise islands, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Bahamas, was designed with sustainability and conservation at its core. Once an industrial site, the island has been beautifully restored into a protected marine reserve, where coral restoration projects and native plant life thrive. This eco-focused experience allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the Bahamas while supporting MSC's commitment to environmental stewardship.
As the highlight of many Caribbean itineraries, this MSC Cruises private island features over two miles of pristine beaches, a tranquil lagoon, and a variety of water activities-from paddleboarding and snorkeling to kayak tours and beachside yoga. Whether you're relaxing under a palm tree or exploring the vibrant marine life just offshore, Ocean Cay offers a uniquely immersive island experience.
Designed to extend your cruise experience ashore, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve blends Bahamian charm with MSC's signature European elegance. Guests enjoy seamless access to island amenities, including food trucks, beach bars, spa services, and evening lighthouse light shows. Whether it's your first time visiting or a return trip, this unforgettable MSC cruise island is a true highlight of any tropical getaway.
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Facilities
Welcome to your little paradise! Enjoy Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails and treats for everyone's tastes. And if you want the full experience, rent a cabana for the day.
- Eight world-class beaches
- Bars, including a Bahama-themed bar and a Hemingway-themed cocktail bar*
- Stores, including a local artisan craft store and an Ocean Cay souvenir shop**
- Ice cream parlor and coffee bar*
- Cabanas available for daily rental
- Seakers Food Court*
- Food Trucks*
- Spa Treatments
- Walking/jogging paths
- Floating beach mat
- Lighthouse Bar
- Inflatable Raft
*Food costs on the island are not included in the cruise fare. Beverages are also not included, unless purchased under an upgraded beverage package.
**Your Cruise Card will be the only form of payment accepted in the souvenir and gift shop and at the logo shop.
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Activities
Dive into the crystal clear waters and discover the coral reef and marine life that call Ocean Cay home. Created with you in mind every step of the way, Ocean Cay is an ideal place to soak up the sun and relax.
- Beach soccer and volleyball
- Bocce ball and Tr-Ball-Rec
- Aqua gym and Aqua Zumba
- King of the Island and Queen of the Island
- Ocean Cay Olympic Games
- Luna Libre Party
- Junkanoo Parade
- Evening lighthouse Show
- Sunset cruise, evening beach picnic
- Beachside fire pits and stargazing
- Ocean Cay Lighthouse Climb
- Paddle Board Rental
- Kayak Rental
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Shore Excursions and Water Sports
Not only does MSC Cruises offer environmental education programming, but they have made sure to ban all motorized water sports on the island - keeping the focus of their shore excursions on observing the environment's beauty.
Excursions include:
- Kayak Explorer Tour
- Marine Reserve Snorkel
- Ocean Cay WaveRunner
- Paddleboard Tour
- Shipwreck Snorkeling Getaway
- Ocean Cay Bahama Breeze Escape
Click to see iCruise's first look at the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve!
