msc yacht club ocean house

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve: Everything you need to know

Editor's Note

If you're looking for waterslides and zip lines, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is not the private island playground you've been seeking. But if a relaxing day of lounging in the sand and floating on the waves, perhaps with an hour or two of snorkeling or paddleboarding, is what the doctor ordered, MSC Cruises' newest destination might be your new favorite cruise port.

MSC Cruises transformed a former sand extraction site, surrounded by damaged reefs and full of industrial rubbish, into an idyllic beach destination that the line hopes will be the poster child for coral restoration. It planted thousands of plants and trees and created a coral nursery on the island's east side. MSC has partnered with the Bahamian government to designate the 64 square miles of waters around Ocean Cay as an official marine reserve.

Ocean Cay is technically two tiny islands connected by a footbridge. In the middle is a sheltered lagoon. Beachgoers can choose from numerous oceanside or lagoon-facing beaches, each with its own vibe. Bars and food trucks are scattered throughout the island, and visitors can book water-based tours or rent water sports equipment.

There's plenty of space for everyone but very little shade. Ships dock right at the island, so passengers can walk off the ship whenever they're ready for their time in the sun.

Got an upcoming trip to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve? Here's everything you need to know to plan your beach day.

Note: Prices for activities and rentals can vary based on sail date and whether they're booked pre-cruise, on board or onshore.

Where is Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay is a manmade island in the Bahamas, about 20 miles south of Bimini and 65 miles southeast of Miami. It is closer to Florida than many other cruise line private islands and beaches, such as Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay or Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay .

The island's proximity to the Florida cruise ports means that MSC Cruises ships can stay in port late into the night and still make it back to the U.S. first thing in the morning.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Which cruise ships go there?

Only MSC Cruises ships visit Ocean Cay. Usually, they are the ships based year-round or seasonally in the U.S., sailing Bahamas and Caribbean cruises. Occasionally, another ship on a repositioning cruise might pay a visit.

Ships visiting Ocean Cay through 2025 include:

• MSC Magnifica
• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Seascape
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seaside
• MSC World America

Sister cruise line Explora Journey's Explora 1 will also make a few stops at Ocean Cay.

How do you get to and around Ocean Cay?

Ships dock right at Ocean Cay's pier, so passengers can walk off the ship via the gangway instead of taking a tender boat. This makes it quicker and easier to go back and forth from the ship to the island.

Pathways take you from the pier, through the Ocean Cay Village (with its shops and bars), to the various beaches. From the pier to the farthest spot on the island is a 20-minute walk. An electric tram service also picks up passengers at designated stops (most with shaded seating areas) and takes them to the various beaches around the island. This way, you're not forced to walk if you can't or don't want to.

What are the MSC Ocean Cay beaches?

The main thing to do on Ocean Cay is to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Visitors can choose to spend time in the protected waters of the lagoon or on a beach that fronts the ocean. In one area, the lagoon's floor is covered in plant life, so you might not want to wade but rather swim over.

Sunset, Bimini and Paradise Sands beaches do not have lifeguards stationed along the beach like the other beaches do and are marked as such; however, lifeguards on jet skis do patrol the waters near these swimming areas.

Some beaches are more chill, while others have entertainment or water sports. All are close to food trucks offering complimentary burgers, hot dogs and fries, as well as bars. But if you want convenient access to the full lunch buffet, you'll want to hang out on South Beach near Seakers Food Court.

Floating beach mats and shade umbrellas are available for rent. It's cheaper to rent them in advance versus on the island. The current onboard price is $15 per umbrella rental or floating beach mat.

Pick them up at designated rental stations on the island (including the umbrellas, which you'll have to carry to the beach and set up yourself). Note that only South and North Beach have preset umbrella stands for placing your rental umbrella. Free umbrellas are already set up at Lighthouse Bay.

Ocean Cay's eight beaches include:

South Beach

The closer, longer lagoon-facing beach, with easy access to bars, food trucks and the main Seakers Food Court. If you've signed up for water sports, you'll find equipment such as standup paddleboards and kayaks at one end of South Beach.

North Beach

Across the lagoon from South Beach (and a farther walk/tram ride), this beach is a good bet for fewer crowds than South Beach or travel parties who want to easily switch from lagoon to ocean swimming.

Bimini Beach

Bimini Beach is on the ocean side of Ocean Cay's smaller island and one of the farthest spots from the ship.

Sunset Beach

Ocean Cay's longest beach (more than half a mile) faces the ocean. The farthest end of the beach is definitely a trek from the ship.

Paradise Sands

This tiny beach is between the Spa at Ocean Cay and the wedding pavilion.

Lighthouse Bay

Lighthouse Bay, with its colorful (and complimentary) beach umbrellas, sits between the ship and the island's iconic lighthouse. It's a happening spot with entertainment and activities throughout the day.

Ocean House Beach

This beach is exclusive to guests staying in the Yacht Club. It has its own restaurant and bar, as well as butler service and cabanas to rent for an additional fee.

Related: How MSC's private-island experience is different for cruisers in suites

Seakers Family Cove Beach

This small beach is still in the design process and has not yet opened. It's meant to be a shallow beach for families with young kids and is located close to food, bathrooms and the ship.

What are the best Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve things to do?

If you want more to do than swim, float or relax in a lounge chair, you have a few options on Ocean Cay. However, there aren't as many options as a tricked-out, theme-park-like private island like Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.

For a little exercise, the following rentals are available. Rentals are for one hour unless otherwise noted:

• Snorkel equipment (all-day rental, $32)
• Stand-up paddleboard ($32)
• Kayak ($32)
• Ceclo pedal boat ($122)
• Windsurf board ($52)
• Hobie sailing kayak ($75)
• Hobie family kayak ($92)
• Hobie Eclipse paddleboard ($49)

On my summer sailing, the snorkel equipment was already sold out when I went to reserve a set the day before we docked at Ocean Cay. If you plan on renting equipment rather than bringing your own, put a hold on a set as early as possible.

You can book massages at the on-island Spa at Ocean Cay, located on Paradise Sands Beach, past the far end of South Beach, where you can enjoy the sea breezes in a private treatment cabana. The wedding pavilion is also on this beach should you wish to tie the knot during your cruise.

The ship's entertainment staff organizes a few activities, including volleyball, bocce and kite competitions (marked as 18+). The youth staff organizes kid and teen activities, too, including treasure hunts and active games.

You can take a walk around the island, but you can't climb the lighthouse unless you book an official tour.

If you like to shop, Ocean Cay Village by the pier features several storefronts selling Bahamian and MSC/Ocean Cay-themed souvenirs and beach necessities.

A Discover Scuba diving center has been built but won't open until the cruise line has finished developing its diving program and tours.

You can also book a handful of excursions through the cruise ship (see below).

Ocean Cay is unusual in that it offers evening events, as the ship can stay late in port, given its proximity to the Florida cruise ports. A Junkanoo parade puts everyone in a party spirit and culminates in a laser light show on and around the lighthouse. On sailings that stay extra late, guests can live it up at the Luna Libre party on Lighthouse Beach, complete with a DJ, bonfire, dancing and limbo contests. Bars on this part of the island stay open late, as well.

What are the MSC Ocean Cay excursions?

Want to engage in more organized fun? You can book a handful of tours for your day on Ocean Cay.

Tours include:

• WaveRunner jet ski tour ($169 per jet ski — up to two guests)
• Guided stand-up paddleboard tour ($49)
• Guided kayak tour ($49)
• Ocean Cay Lighthouse climb ($15)
• Ocean Cay "Bahama Breeze Escape" 2-hour catamaran tour ($85)
• Shipwreck snorkeling tour ($82)
• Hobie catamaran sailing tour ($142)
• Sunrise mimosa cruise ($85)

All of the tours are 1.5 to 2 hours in length, except the lighthouse climb, which is only 30 minutes. Depending on the MSC fare class you purchase, you may be eligible for discounts on tours if purchased online before your sailing. Prices for children are cheaper, except for the paddleboard tour (minimum age 14) and the jet ski tour (minimum age 10, but minimum age to drive is 18).

If your cruise ship stays late or overnight at Ocean Cay, you can book additional evening excursions. These include:

• Glow nighttime stand-up paddleboard tour ($52)
• Sunset Champagne cruise ($85)
• Beachside stargazing ($89)
• Twilight scenic island cruise and light show ($79)

These activities were not available on my summer cruise due to a combination of a later sunset and an earlier evening departure.

Related: Shore excursions: What you need to know

Does MSC Ocean Cay offer cabanas to rent?

Cabanas offer a shady hangout with a few extra perks. They're available on all beaches except Sunset Beach, Lighthouse Bay and Paradise Sands. Pricing and inclusions vary by cabana type.

Ocean Cay Beach Cabana

Anyone can rent a cabana on North, South and Bimini Beach. The thatched roof huts are partially walled with a cushioned couch and wooden table inside and lounge chairs outside; they come with extra towels, cold water and two floating mats. Up to six people can occupy one cabana.

These cost $252 per cabana to rent on board, but pricing might differ if you book before your cruise or on the island.

Ocean View Yacht Club Cabana

Yacht Club guests can access cabanas on their exclusive beach, Ocean House Beach. An Ocean View Cabana also can accommodate up to six people. In addition to fresh water and towels, the rental price includes complimentary lunch and drinks, afternoon fruit skewers, four sets of snorkel equipment and four floating mats. These cabanas are on an elevated section of the beach, offering great views of the beach and waves.

These cost $402 per cabana to rent on board; the mats and snorkel gear are valued at $188.

Beachfront Yacht Club Cabana

For an extra $50, you can get a cabana on Ocean House Beach that's closer to the water than the Ocean View version but offers all the same amenities. These cost $452 per cabana to rent on board.

Is food included on Ocean Cay?

Lunch is included on Ocean Cay, though certain venues charge extra for special meals. The island's eateries include:

Seakers Food Court

Seakers Food Court is the main complimentary barbecue lunch buffet spot on Ocean Cay. It serves up a variety of premade salads, barbecue fare (burgers and veggie burgers, hot dogs, chicken, fish and more), plus simple desserts like cookies. Water and iced tea are complimentary. Picnic tables are set in the sand around the buffet, so you don't need to carry your meal back to your beach chair.

I was impressed with the variety of options, and everything was tasty. I had to ask for a veggie burger (they're not set out on the buffet), but it came out in minutes (versus on other lines' private islands where I've had to wait 10 minutes or more for my food).

Food trucks

If you don't want to trek far from the beach for your lunch, food trucks around the island serve complimentary burgers, hot dogs, pasta salad and French fries. It's a much more limited menu than the main food court, but sometimes convenience is key.

Seafood Shack

The Great Star food truck near South Beach offers seafood specials for an additional charge. Choose from lobster grilled cheese, fried calamari, lobster bacon roll, grilled octopus salad, seafood ceviche and seafood watermelon salad for prices ranging from $7.95 to $12.95.

Ocean House Restaurant

Ocean House Restaurant is an indoor/outdoor dining venue and bar exclusive to Yacht Club guests; it's on their exclusive beach. The menu is fancier than the fare you'll find at Seakers Food Court, with starters such as crab ceviche and charred octopus; mains such as a lobster roll, pineapple club mahi mahi and a burger blending fresh angus chunk, short ribs and brisket; and desserts such as creme caramel and mango cheesecake.

The Smiling Fish Ice Cream Parlor

If you want a cool treat after a hot beach day, The Smiling Fish Ice Cream Parlor serves up cups, cone and its signature ice cream dish — ice cream in a fish-shaped cone. Flavors include vanilla, chocolate, coconut and key lime, and you can order toppings like M&Ms, fresh mango and Nutella sauce. Be prepared for sticker shock: A cup costs $4-$6, a waffle cone $7 and a smiling fish cone $9.

Does my MSC drink package work on Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay has 10 bars (plus the Smiling Fish coffee bar) spread across the island, and whatever drink or all-inclusive package you have on board will apply to the island. Otherwise, you will need to swipe your cruise card to pay for drinks.

Most of the bars are thatched-roof, open-air huts with bar seating; there are conversation nooks in the sand with four chairs around a small table and even some bean bags for reclining with your beverage.

Is there shopping on Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay Village has several shops selling souvenirs and beach necessities. Even better, they are blissfully air-conditioned, should you need a respite on your walk from the sand to the ship.

The Ocean Cay Trading Post sells Ocean Cay branded souvenirs and gifts inspired by nature. The MSC Shop and Ocean Cay Visitor Center are the spots to pick up essentials like sunscreen and beach toys; the MSC Shop also sells items from the MSC Foundation, highlighting sustainability and marine themes. The Bahamas Shop sells locally made Bahamian products.

An artisan market was closed during my visit; when it is open, it only accepts U.S. dollars for payment.

What additional Ocean Cay amenities will I find?

The rental stations doling out umbrellas and floating mats are the same buildings where you can find restrooms, changing rooms and showers. Beach wheelchairs are available for passengers with mobility issues; these can also be found by the bathrooms.

Ocean Cay is wired for Wi-Fi, so your onboard internet package will work on the island. Just connect your phone or device to Ocean Cay Wi-Fi and sign in as you would on board.

Can you stay overnight on Ocean Cay?

You can't stay overnight on Ocean Cay — but your ship might. Though MSC cruise ships stay at Ocean Cay into the evening and sometimes remain docked overnight for a two-day visit, there are no accommodations for guests on the island.

If you want the late-night experience, look for sailings that either arrive in the afternoon and depart the evening of the following day or arrive in the morning and stay for two full days. Don't think you can camp out on the sand. For these overnight stays, passengers still need to be back on board around midnight or 1 a.m.

What's the typical weather like on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve?

Like the rest of the Bahamas, Ocean Cay has warm weather year-round. Summer highs are in the 80s, and winter lows are around 70 degrees. May and June are the rainiest months, with hurricane season running from June through November. Should a storm threaten Ocean Cay, your cruise ship will reroute and skip a visit to the island until weather conditions improve.

I've found the sun very intense in the Bahamas, and there's not a ton of natural shade on Ocean Cay. Be sure to apply and reapply sunscreen liberally if you plan to spend all day at the beach to avoid sunburns.

Related: Best time to cruise to Bahamas

Can I see an MSC Ocean Cay map?

Sure! Here is a map of Ocean Cay to help you plan your day on the island.

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I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

The MSC Yacht Club affords travelers a totally different cruising experience, but you’ll have to splurge.

I heard tales of luxury from people about the ritzy MSC Yacht Club , the ship-within-a-ship concept where discerning passengers enjoy their own area of the cruise ship that includes a dedicated restaurant, private lounge, separate pool and sundeck as well as private butlers and concierges to take of any whim while cruising. The elevated Yacht Club boasts priority everything while sailing MSC.

I sailed on a four-night cruise on the new MSC Seashore, a glitzy ship with Italian flair intermingled with references to New York City at every turn. Although the ship was well-appointed and had amazing dining, drinking and entertainment venues, and a bountiful Top Sail main buffet, thousands of passengers made the ship feel crowded at times, elevators were slow, and as I strolled through the general pools, they were boisterous and crowded.

RECOMMENDED: 10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you

Switch gears to MSC Seashore’s Yacht Club, passkey-protected for lucky guests, and is a 180 from the ship’s general spaces. Once you scan your handy Yacht Club wrist badge, or your room key, you’re instantly given entrance to a breathtaking retreat of 131 staterooms and suites. All this luxury does come at a price. Cruise fares will vary based on destination, time of year, and cabin category, but generally speaking you can expect to pay double for the Yacht Club. And from my experience, it’s worth it. Read more about why you should splurge.

You’re fast-tracked through everything

The Yacht Club’s exclusivity and impeccable service standard started from the moment I got dropped off at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. There were hundreds of people waiting to board at 1pm on embarkation day. I saw in the distance a canopy that said MSC Yacht Club. My husband and I wheeled our carry-on luggage to the representative under the canopy. I gave her my name and within two seconds, she gave me a sticker to wear and up we ascended on the escalator to check in. Just five minutes later, I was directed to the dedicated check-in area for Yacht Club guests. To my right, I saw about 1,000 people serpentine through ropes to do general check-in. I felt a sense of relief; who wants to wait in that line? Five minutes later, a butler from the Yacht Club insisted on wheeling my luggage to board the ship and I was in my room in a total on 12 minutes from the time I stepped foot out of the car to my stateroom in the Yacht Club.

Relaxing and streamlined

In addition, Yacht Club guests have the freedom to get off the ship first for excursions. Your butler will happily escort you off the ship with a smile. Guests also can disembark on the last morning first, which is a big convenience. Your butler walks you right to the place you disembark, bypassing crowds and hassles. Port Canaveral is about an hour away from Orlando International Airport, and we took a 10 am flight home. We didn’t have to linger around until the afternoon for our flight home.

Another perk is that there’s a special seating area in the theater for shows. All the shows were excellent during my voyage. All other ship passengers have to make reservations in advance for shows but that’s not the case for the privileged Yacht Club passengers. As long as you arrive about 10 minutes before any show you choose, a crew member from the Club will allow you entry into a special roped-off section. Again, no rushing through dinner—you have the flexibility to plan your evenings your way.

Your Yacht Club package is packed with remarkable value

The price tag may sound daunting, but there’s lots of value there. All Yacht Club cabins and suites include a premium drink package that covers beverages up to $15. You can use this perk both in the Yacht Club and throughout the ship. In addition, your package includes a two-device Wi-Fi package, which worked well during my sailing. Finally, you get access to the thermal spa suite, which is a place to indulge after a day in port or a sea day. Commonly, there’s a taboo regarding mini-bars, but not in the Yacht Club. It’s stocked each day with the beverages you want; just tell your butler and consider it done.

You get perks ashore too

If your sailing includes a call to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, Yacht Club guests get an elevated experience there too. Yacht Club guests enjoy a private area, and a dedicated restaurant called the Ocean House. While other ship guests were hosted to a buffet of predictable fare, I enjoyed a lobster roll, and my husband chose carne asada. In my opinion, one thing that could be improved was the tram service to the Yacht Club’s private area. We were told the last tram back was 3:30pm if we didn’t want to trek a 15-minute walk in the heat. Since we were docked in Ocean Cay for the evening and weren’t sailing, I was a bit dismayed by this logistical quirk. I felt like I was keeping an eye on my phone to make sure I didn’t miss the last tram.

You have private areas with curated food and drink and outdoor spaces

Within the Yacht Club complex, there’s the Yacht Club Restaurant, Top Sail Lounge and the One Pool Buffet, which are all exclusive to Yacht Club guests. Obviously, the food and service are steps above other dining venues of the ship, I can vouch for that. Although the food is delicious, if you don’t want to pay extra to dine at the specialty restaurants or fuss in the main buffet, eating three meals a day in the Yacht Club restaurant can get a bit monotonous. The breakfast is the same daily, and lunch and dinner offer a menu with daily specials plus a few standby selections like a hamburger or pasta each day. Although the Yacht Club Restaurant concept is desirable, I would strongly suggest dining in other venues on board, especially for dinner. I thoroughly enjoyed specialty dining in Ocean Cay Restaurant, Butcher’s Cut, and Kaito Teppanyaki. I also want to mention that late afternoon high tea is offered daily at the Yacht Club Restaurant. It was one of the nicest I have experienced at sea.

Also available exclusively to Yacht Club passengers is the Top Sail Lounge, which offers panoramic water views and has chef-curated selections from morning through late night. We enjoyed popping into the lounge at all hours to try finger foods and sweets. The One Pool Buffet offers a more casual option for breakfast and lunch by the pool. The buffet has grilled fish, sandwiches and lots of delicious options if you want to dine outside.

There’s also an exclusive area with a private pool and two whirlpools for Yacht Club guests only. The sun deck loungers are very comfortable and I never had to worry about finding a lounger, there are ample. One issue I had was that there was almost no shade on the sun deck; there were shaded day beds for Royal Suite and Owners Suite guests, but beyond those, I couldn’t find any shade, which was disappointing.

You can justify the price at the end of your cruise

Overall, the best way to explain my enthusiasm for my MSC Yacht Club experience is this: it’s better to book an interior stateroom in the Yacht Club than a luxe cabin outside the Yacht Club. It’s worth the splurge and you return home feeling truly pampered and it’s money well-spent. And I make this prediction: Once you try a ship-within-a-ship concept like the MSC Yacht Club, you won’t want cruise any other way. Bon Voyage!

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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OCEAN CAY MSC MARINE RESERVE 

What is ocean cay msc marine reserve, when did ocean cay msc marine reserve open, where does the ship dock how can i reach the island, is there an information center, is this island big will i have to walk long distances to visit places, are drones allowed on the island, will my cruise card work on the island,  if i want to reach my cabin, can i come back to the ship at any time, are towels available at ocean cay, or do guests need to bring them off the ship  , what time do the beaches, bars and restaurants close at ocean cay, beaches and water sports , what are the beaches on ocean cay, are lounge chairs, umbrellas, cabanas and beach towels available on the island , can i rent water-sport equipment  , is there an adults-only beach, food and drink , will food be available on the island.

Yes, the island has a complimentary Seakers buffet food court, five food trucks (four complimentary and one with food items available for purchase) as well as an ice cream parlor.  

• Seakers Food Court: A traditional barbecue buffet, serving Caribbean and American classics from burgers to salads and an array of kid-friendly and grab-and-go choices. 
• Beach Shack Food Trucks: Conveniently located throughout the island, here you’ll find hamburgers and hotdogs with the lagoon South Beach food truck specializing in upscale lobster rolls and crab ceviche salads amongst other choices available for purchase.   

Where can I get beverages and ice cream on the island?

• Spread across the island, we have ten bars at your hand for our thirsty guests. Two of our signature beach bars include: - Springer’s Marina Bar: An authentic Bahamian bar with a laid-back atmosphere. - Lighthouse Bar: This Hemingway-style cocktail bar offers an ample selection of rums, spirits and delicious cocktails, all served with incredible views of pristine water and white sand beaches. 
• The Smiling Fish: Located in the Ocean Village, this venue offers many kinds of ice cream, from classics to more innovative flavors with a Bahamian twist. In addition, the bar offers freshly brewed whole bean and ground coffee, espresso and cappuccino for an energetic start to the day on Ocean Cay or a quick boost throughout the day.

Will restaurants and bars be open on the ship while the ship is at Ocean Cay? 

The ship's buffet will be open at select times, with most specialty restaurants closed during the day*. Some bars will also remain open onboard.

*Hours may vary based on the ship. 

 Does the onboard Beverage Package include drinks on Ocean Cay?

Please note: Select alcoholic beverages will be available for the Premium packages.

MSC Yacht Club guests have complimentary beverages included with their experience and these are served at the dedicated MSC Yacht Club area and beach, as well as the Ocean House Bar & Restaurant.

Will the island accommodate dietary needs?

Can i use my diamond card voyagers club amenities on the island, such as the complimentary specialty dining, entertainment and shopping , what family-friendly activities are available on ocean cay,  will there be a kids club on the island do you offer babysitting, what entertainment is available on the island , is shopping available on the island.

Yes, indulge in authentic Bahamian artwork and items, MSC logo apparel and more. Shops available on Ocean Cay include: 

• My Ocean Bahamian artwork. 
• Ocean Cay Trading Post & Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Logo Shop: Share a piece of paradise with your friends and family. A wide selection of Ocean Cay souvenirs and gifts for both adults and children, ranging from T-shirts, caps, beach items, towels and accessories will be available for purchase. You will also find beach essentials like reef-safe sunscreen lotions and lip balms that are biodegradable and eco-friendly for the coral reef. Your cruise card will be accepted here. 

Will the island offer special activities for MSC Voyagers Club members? 

Packages and excursions ,  is wi-fi available on the island , how can i book excursions .

Excursions can be booked in any of the following ways: 

• Prior to the cruise via the MSC website 
• On board the ship, either at the Excursions’ Desk or via the MSC for Me app (where available) 
• At the Welcome Centre or Excursion pavilion located at the Ocean Village welcome area directly as you enter Ocean Cay  

Should I wait to book an excursion once I’m onboard or on the island?

We highly recommend you book your excursion in advance. This guarantees you will be able to participate in the excursion, as well as saving you up to 20%. Prices shown online are already discounted. 

Click here to see a list of available excursions.

SHIP INFORMATION

Which ships visit ocean cay msc marine reserve, is the ship accessible at any time while docked at the island, what ships stay overnight in ocean cay, the spa at ocean cay , will there be a spa on the island, can i get a massage on the beach , what products are used in the spa, if i book the aurea experience, can i get the massage on the island, will fitness activities be available on the island, health and safety , is there a medical facility on the island, is there security on the island, what does msc cruises do with the trash on the island.

MSC Cruises is dedicated to protecting the environment. The waste on the island (plastics, metals, glass, vegetation, and wet waste) is sorted, compacted, and recycled via sending back on the ships to the US or dedicated barges to Nassau, Bahamas – all handled in environmentally friendly way.

We are also continuously working to improve our systems on the island to stay eco-friendly. 

Will Ocean Cay be accessible for guests with special needs? 

Yes, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is completely ADA compliant. Beach wheelchairs will be available on the island and waiting for guests at the pier upon disembarkation (upon request).

Service animals must be approved by MSC and accompanied by a permit from the Bahamian Department of Agriculture. 

Can children access the island without parents?

Special occasions , can i get married on the island, can i rent ocean cay for private use , thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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The luxurious msc yacht club experience elevates this cruise brand.

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MSC Seashore’s MSC Yacht Club is the largest in the fleet.

For a mighty ship with 1,648 crew members and 5,632 passengers, it’s important to feel like you can get away from the masses and enjoy some peace and quiet while on board the MSC Seashore . The exclusive MSC Yacht Club , with its ingenious ship-within-a-ship model, allows guests to spread out over four different decks. The largest in the fleet, this all-inclusive experience includes not only the best sea views on the ship, but also, premium accommodations, a large sun-soaked solarium with whirlpools, a private restaurant and lounge, and a secluded swimming pool. Travelers will also love the 24-hour butler service and complimentary premium beverages. You’re on vacation after all, go ahead and indulge.

Reserved Venues

From the moment you arrive at the port, you’ll be well taken care of throughout the embarkation and disembarkation processes with priority access. Once on board, you’ll have access to private spaces, reserved expressly for MSC Yacht Club guests, like a dedicated fine dining restaurant, private sun deck and swimming pool, and the Top Sail Lounge, a relaxing place to unwind with inventive finger foods and live music after a fun-filled day.

Cool off in your private pool and enjoy a cocktail while you relax and soak up the sun.

Round-the-Clock Butler Service

No matter what time of day it is, your dedicated butler will ensure that you have the most unforgettable experience while on board. Whether you’d like to request room service or extra beverages and snacks, or you’d like turn-down service with extra toiletries and towels, your butler is up to the task.

An Expert Concierge Team

You’ll have access to your own concierge team that can handle any request, whether you’d like dinner reservations at specialty restaurants, private shopping access, or VIP seating during a show. If you’re interested in extraordinary excursions while on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve or Nassau, the concierge team is happy to assist.

Exclusive Access While on Ocean Cay

When the ship has arrived at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Yacht Club guests will have sole access to the Ocean House Beach, an open-air space, complete with incredible views, beachfront cabanas, and extra amenities like towels and cold water.

On land at the private Ocean House Beach on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, enjoy exclusive amenities. ... [+]

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, luxurious staterooms.

Choose from a variety of rooms to suit your budget and taste. From expansive rooms with private whirlpools and balconies to suites with inventive bunkbed configurations for children, you’ll find all of the comforts of home while onboard.

Plenty of Amenities

While you’ll have access to the entire ship, full of dining, entertainment, and swimming options, the MSC Yacht Club access includes extra conveniences like premium beverage options, high-speed internet, and complimentary access to the thermal spa.

The MSC Yacht Club offers an elevated menu at the dedicated restaurant.

The Best of the Rest

When you venture out to explore the rest of the ship, outside of the MSC Yacht Club, you’ll find that this 1,100-foot ship, the longest in the MSC Cruises fleet, has plenty of outdoor space to discover including the Bridge of Sighs, an elevated glass walkway, and plenty of outdoor dining and lounge opportunities.

Kids of all ages will love the clubs and dedicated children’s spaces as well as the swimming pools, whirlpools, and Pirates Cove Aquapark, complete with a waterslide and ropes course adventure trail.

Choose from a variety of Caribbean sailings with MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise brand, including itineraries on the MSC Seashore that span from three to fourteen nights. Go solo, with a partner or friend, or with your entire family in tow—there’s something for everyone.

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