Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Cruise
Exclusive to MSC Cruises
Best New Cruise Destination The Points Guy Editors' Choice Awards
Unlock the best of life in The Bahamas on Ocean Cay, where dreamy beachscapes are just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
Searching for paradise? Look no further than Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, a blissful getaway located in a truly spectacular Bahamian setting. Prepare to be warmly welcomed by impossibly beautiful beach vistas before being soundly swept off your feet by a host of other island charms.
As MSC Cruises’ private island, Ocean Cay offers an indulgent escape for all, tucked into a peaceful pocket of the Atlantic Ocean. Settle into an easy-going pace and start enjoying yourself with watersports, beach time or rejuvenating treatments at the luxurious spa.
Wander over two miles of white-sand beaches, or just pick a spot and lounge the day away, enjoying the sunshine and ocean views. Refuel and refresh with a snack from one of the island’s food trucks or a cool drink from one of the beach bars.
Best cruises to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Enjoy the magic of Ocean Cay as part of a longer Caribbean cruise and explore other fantastic destinations. Itineraries can include stops in bucket list worthy places such as Jamaica’s vibrant Ocho Rios, Puerto Rico’s colourful San Juan and the Bahamas’ beguiling capital, Nassau, plus many more.
EXPLORE THE ISLAND
Step onto an island that is like no other in the world
Get set to discover the ultimate place to unwind amid abundant natural beauty.
Step onto an island that is like no other in the world
Get set to discover the ultimate place to unwind amid abundant natural beauty, take a look around the 360 virtual tour
Here’s what’s on offer during your visit to Ocean Cay
Cruises to Ocean Cay really do showcase the best of The Bahamas. While on the island, you can enjoy a choice of unique activities and experiences – pamper yourself in the spa, treat yourself to a range of excellent food and drink, make the most of the beaches and much more.
Beaches
Beaches
The beaches of your dreams, made a reality
Believe what you’re seeing as you arrive at Ocean Cay: seven pristine beaches, spread over two sandy miles.
As the name suggests, Sunset Beach (the island’s longest) is blessed with life-affirming views, making it the place to watch the sun go down. During the day, head to North Beach and South Beach for great swimming, snorkelling and a lagoon to relax in.
Speaking of relaxing, as you leave the spa, stop at nearby Paradise Sands Beach for quiet contemplation in a peaceful spot.
For views of Ocean Cay’s striking lighthouse, spread your towel out at Lighthouse Bay Beach, which sits next to the island’s famous tower. You’ll also find seating, beanbags and fire pits here, so feel free to get cosy.
Further epic views can be found at Bimini Beach, and then there’s Ocean House Beach, promising an upscale and exclusive experience for MSC Yacht Club guests. Truly a beach for every occasion.
SPA
SPA
A visit to Ocean Cay can be whatever you want it to be – but it should almost certainly include time for relaxation. And what better place to truly relax than the island’s premium spa? Here, unwind in gentle surroundings, made even more special by the gorgeous views of the beach, just metres away.
Treat yourself to some professional pampering by booking a massage, choosing from a range of Swedish massages to soothe or a sports-style massage to reinvigorate tired muscles. Eco-friendly skincare products help elevate the experience, which takes place in a beachside cabana, transporting you further away from everyday stresses and further toward Bahamian bliss.
For something a little different but just as rewarding, try sunset yoga and discover why perfecting your downward dog on the beach – while hearing ocean waves softly lapping beside you – is something you’ll never forget.
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
A key part of any holiday is good food and drink, and Ocean Cay has plenty of both. Whether you’re after barbecue or Bahamian, you’ll find somewhere with an ocean view to enjoy it, plus beach bars serving classic drinks – you can even use your onboard drinks package on Ocean Cay. Here are some highlights.
Seakers Food Court offers a buffet of barbecue classics from North American and Caribbean cuisine, plus favourites such as burgers and salads. There’s lots for children and also options to take away.
Springer’s Bar is a Bahamian-feel spot with a laid-back vibe and top cocktails. Or cool down at the Lighthouse Bar, which sits next to Ocean Cay’s 100-foot-tall lighthouse and hosts live music.
For sweet treats, The Smiling Fish has ice cream and specialty coffee. If you’re craving convenience, food trucks are scattered across the island, serving hot dogs and other snacks.
Seakers Food Court offers a buffet of barbecue classics from North American and Caribbean cuisine, plus favourites such as burgers and salads. There’s lots for children and also options to take away.
Springer’s Bar is a Bahamian-feel spot with a laid-back vibe and top cocktails. Or cool down at the Lighthouse Bar, which sits next to Ocean Cay’s 100-foot-tall lighthouse and hosts live music.
For sweet treats, The Smiling Fish has ice cream and specialty coffee. If you’re craving convenience, food trucks are scattered across the island, serving hot dogs and other snacks.
Shopping
Shopping
During your stay on Ocean Cay, why not treat yourself to some retail therapy? A brilliant selection of boutiques and shops can be found on the island, all ideal for casual perusing or buying.
Browse a wide selection of arts and crafts items in the Bahamian Shop & Market– some even made by local artisans – and pick up the perfect memento or souvenir of your trip. To help cement those lifelong memories of your cruise, take a look in the Ocean Cay Shop for gifts inspired by nature, and the MSC Shop for stylishly branded items that’ll remind you of good times.
And why not give something back during your trip, by shopping for products that also help the MSC Foundation – a non-profit supporting conservation and humanitarian work through a number of different programmes.
Browse a wide selection of arts and crafts items in the Bahamian Shop & Market– some even made by local artisans – and pick up the perfect memento or souvenir of your trip. To help cement those lifelong memories of your cruise, take a look in the Ocean Cay Shop for gifts inspired by nature, and the MSC Shop for stylishly branded items that’ll remind you of good times.
And why not give something back during your trip, by shopping for products that also help the MSC Foundation – a non-profit supporting conservation and humanitarian work through a number of different programmes.
Cabana Rentals
Cabana Rentals
What could be more comfortable than kicking back in a cabana and enjoying the peaceful surroundings? On Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, you won’t have to look far to find that level of ultimate comfort, since cabanas are in abundance on the island.
Guests will find these cosy structures (a kind of cross between an open beach hut and a sun shelter) for hire on the North, South and Bimini beaches, just waiting to be lounged in. Once you’ve picked and hired your chosen cabana, make your way inside and relax on comfy, cushioned furniture that invites long lingering.
But your cabana comes kitted out for more than just relaxation. You’ll also find floating mats and snorkelling equipment, allowing you to make the most of your oceanside setting and gaze at various colourful scenes in the nearby crystal-clear waters. Complimentary refreshments are also included to complete the beach experience.
Guests will find these cosy structures (a kind of cross between an open beach hut and a sun shelter) for hire on the North, South and Bimini beaches, just waiting to be lounged in. Once you’ve picked and hired your chosen cabana, make your way inside and relax on comfy, cushioned furniture that invites long lingering.
But your cabana comes kitted out for more than just relaxation. You’ll also find floating mats and snorkelling equipment, allowing you to make the most of your oceanside setting and gaze at various colourful scenes in the nearby crystal-clear waters. Complimentary refreshments are also included to complete the beach experience.
MSC Yacht Club
MSC Yacht Club
Exclusively available to MSC Yacht Club guests, for anyone keen to see yet-another side to this magical island, joining MSC Yacht Club opens up a world of exclusive benefits and features for those visiting Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
For starters, there’s Ocean House Beach. This private, calming space boasts superb ocean views, special beachfront cabanas and even complimentary amenities to further boost the luxurious experience.
It’s undoubtedly difficult to tear yourself away from the comfort of Open House Beach, but we think you’ll manage when you know you can head to Ocean House Restaurant. Also exclusive to MSC Yacht Club guests, this stylish venue offers a selection of carefully prepared specialty dishes and drinks, all of which can be enjoyed in a serene, oceanside setting – this is dining you won’t forget in a hurry.
For starters, there’s Ocean House Beach. This private, calming space boasts superb ocean views, special beachfront cabanas and even complimentary amenities to further boost the luxurious experience.
It’s undoubtedly difficult to tear yourself away from the comfort of Open House Beach, but we think you’ll manage when you know you can head to Ocean House Restaurant. Also exclusive to MSC Yacht Club guests, this stylish venue offers a selection of carefully prepared specialty dishes and drinks, all of which can be enjoyed in a serene, oceanside setting – this is dining you won’t forget in a hurry.
EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES
Maximise your time on the island with our Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve excursions – meticulously curated activities offering excitement, adventure, insights, relaxation and luxury. Watersports, relaxing boat trips, stargazing adventures and luxurious sunset cruises are all on offer.
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- Category: ACTIVE & ADVENTURE
- Code: OCC01
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- Category: ACTIVE & ADVENTURE
- Duration: 1.5 hour(s)
- Code: OCC02
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- Category: SOMETHING SPECIAL
- Duration: 1 hour(s)
- Code: OCC03
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- Duration: 2 hour(s)
- Code: OCC04
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- Duration: 1.5 hour(s)
- Code: OCC05
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- Category: NATURAL WONDERS
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- Code: OCC06
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- Duration: 1 hour(s)
- Code: OCC10
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- Category: ACTIVE & ADVENTURE
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- Code: OCC21
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- Duration: 1 hour(s)
- Code: OCC22
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- Duration: 2 hour(s)
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- Duration: 1 hour(s)
- Code: OCC09
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- Category: SEA & SUN
- Duration: 4 hour(s)
- Code: OCC14H
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- Code: OCC16YC
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- Duration: 0.5 hour(s)
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- Category: NATURAL WONDERS
- Duration: 3 hour(s)
- Code: OCC49
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- Duration: 2 hour(s)
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- Code: OCC52
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- Code: OCC53
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- Category: SCENIC ROUTE
- Duration: 1.5 hour(s)
- Code: OCC54
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- Category: SEA & SUN
- Duration: 6 hour(s)
- Code: OCCFCC25
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Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Ports
Reaching Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve couldn’t be simpler. Simply set sail from a choice of three ports – Miami, Port Canaveral (Orlando) or New York – and let your Caribbean cruise take you to Ocean Cay’s enticing sands and calming waters. Find out more about these three exciting ports below.
Cruises from Miami
Step into world-famous Miami to prepare for a cruise to Ocean Cay. From this buzzing, electric city – where art, nightlife, global cuisine and culture are the cornerstones of its character – you can take a Caribbean cruise that stops not just at Ocean Cay, but a host of other fantastic destinations.
These cruises could include stops at the magical Mexican coastal retreats of Cozumel and Costa Maya, both of which boast spectacular beaches, or Isla de Roatán, a stunning island just north of Honduras. Go deep into the Caribbean with stops at Jamaica’s Falmouth, Puerto Rico’s intoxicating capital, San Juan, and the charismatic Dominican Republic city of Puerto Plata.
Cruises from Miami
Cruises from Port Canaveral (Orlando)
Sail from Port Canaveral (Orlando) to Ocean Cay and you’re in for a real Caribbean and Bahamian exploration. After departing from this sun-kissed Floridian city, your Caribbean cruise can transport you to seriously desirable destinations.
Stop off at the Bahamas’ capital, Nassau, where historic architecture sits moments from premium beachfronts. Go further into the Caribbean Sea to Isla de Roatán, a Honduran island known for its coral reefs and aquatic pursuits. Other stops on cruises to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve from Port Canaveral (Orlando) can include the Cayman Islands’ bustling and easy-going capital, George Town, Jamaica’s beach-blessed Montego Bay, and Mexico’s Cozumel.
Cruises from Port Canaveral (Orlando)
Cruises from New York
Ever-thriving New York can open up a Caribbean and Bahamian adventure when you cruise to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. On your way to this peaceful paradise, stop in at Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, where pristine beaches and mountainous scenery await, or St Maarten’s luscious tropical capital, Philipsburg, boasting more fantastic sands and scenery that’s second-to-none.
Other stops can include Nassau, the Bahamas’ radiant capital, where it’s easy – encouraged, even – to flit leisurely between sunbathing, swimming and shopping. And remember that your cruise can also visit Port Canaveral (Orlando) if you’re searching for world-class theme parks and global eats.
Cruises from New York
Nature made it beautiful. We restored it for uniqueness
Factor in time during your Ocean Cay visit to hear how its coral reefs are being preserved. Learning about the island's efforts to enhance biodiversity and sustainability is an important part of a truly rewarding holiday, as you’ll discover during your stay.
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95%
PLANTED SPECIES ARE NATIVE CARIBBEAN -
85 K
PLANTS AND SHRUBS PLANTED -
400
CORAL COLONIES RELOCATED
AN ISLAND WITH A VISION
Respect and understanding for both land and sea are core principles of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Read on to discover the marine conservation efforts underway on the island.
Transforming Ocean Cay
Once a sand excavation site, the island was left in poor condition after decades of mining. An extensive cleanup by MSC Cruises removed debris and scrap metal from the surrounding waters, allowing the marine ecosystem to flourish again. A team of independent marine experts were brought in to identify key environmental initiatives to create the roadmap for the marine restoration programme at Ocean Cay.
To create a biodiverse environment on land, thousands of trees and shrubs were planted, and a freshwater wetland was maintained, supporting a significant bird population.
These efforts transformed the once abandoned island into MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, a pristine paradise, allowing guests to immerse themselves in its natural beauty. Additionally, it brought to life the vision of establishing a base for marine biologists to conduct scientific research on coral restoration.
Transforming Ocean Cay
Super Coral Programme
Ocean Cay is home to the MSC Foundation’s flagship Super Coral Programme, dedicated to restoring coral reefs in The Bahamas. A coral nursery for the critically endangered Elkhorn and other coral species has been established, with efforts focused on studying and propagating thermally resilient coral to enhance reef resilience against environmental changes. The programme has achieved remarkable success, with 100% of nursery corals surviving the 2023 unprecedented Caribbean marine heatwave.
Additionally, the MSC Foundation is partnering with universities to support science-based restoration on Ocean Cay and marine science education. It is collaborating with the University of The Bahamas and BAMSI to offer scholarships and internships for Bahamian students. Its collaborative research with partners in Florida, including Nova Southeastern University and the University of Miami, focuses on methods to identify, grow and outplant resilient coral genotypes, including support for two annual graduate student internships.
Find out more here.
Super Coral Programme
Mission Blue Hope Spot
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has been designated a 'Hope Spot' by Mission Blue, the non-profit organisation founded by renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle to promote the protection of marine ecosystems. This prestigious recognition underscores the island’s important role in ocean health and its ongoing ecosystem restoration efforts. Ocean Cay is part of Mission Blue's global network of more than 160 Hope Spots, places recognised as critical to the health of the ocean. Dr. Sylvia Earle, President and Chairman of Mission Blue, commented on the designation, stating: "This recognizes the comprehensive restoration efforts and commitment to protecting marine biodiversity. The restoration of Ocean Cay has been a multidisciplinary effort to re-establish the ecological balance of this limestone island and its surrounding marine estate. Ocean Cay will inform thousands of people weekly about the crucial importance of growing and outplanting thermally tolerant corals for marine conservation, ocean health and human wellbeing."
Mission Blue Hope Spot
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve FAQs
General Info
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Where is Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve?
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is part of the Bimini chain of islands in the western Bahamas, 20 miles (32 km) south of Bimini and just 104.5 km (65 miles) east of Miami.
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Where does the ship dock? How do I reach the island?
Ships dock on the quay right alongside the main plaza, at the point where sea and shore meet. The island offers walking paths to every destination and easy-to-follow signs.
Beaches and water sports
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Where can I rent equipment for water sports?
Ocean Cay offers facilities for many water-based activities. You will find a rental station on each of the island’s beaches, located behind the restrooms, to rent snorkelling gear for the whole family, as well as kayaks, paddleboards, inner tubes and other water sports equipment. On the Snorkel Beach there is even a place to rent scuba-diving as well as snorkelling equipment.
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Are sunbeds and umbrellas on the beaches?
The island's wonderful beaches feature sunbeds free of charge, while umbrellas and cabanas are available for hire for a fee. In addition, restrooms can be found on every beach. They are clearly indicated on the island map and on the signs around the island.
Excursions, entertainment & shopping
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What can I do on the island?
The Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is full of amazing activity options:
- Ocean Cay boasts miles of pristine white sand, lovingly curated and spread over seven distinct beach areas, each with its own allure and charm.
- A wide variety of dining and drinking options – including a buffet, seven beach tiki bars, two signature bars, several food trucks as well as an ice cream parlour and coffee bar.
- The island’s authentic Bahamian-style village with a wide range of places to shop, eat, drink and relax
- At the signature red-and-white lighthouse, a Hemingway-style bar and terrace will offer cocktails and a sweeping ocean view.
- Ocean Cay excursions will allow you to explore, discover, relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
- At the MSC Aurea Spa, you can choose from a range of relaxing body and facial treatments and enjoy the added benefit of spectacular island view.
- Guests will be entertained by DJs, live Bahamian music and dance lessons.
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Which family-friendly activities are available?
Ocean Cay is a paradise for children. The Great Lagoon beach area is dedicated to families with kids. Boasting shallow water and a floating submarine attraction, it’s the ideal place for children to have fun in absolute safety. You can also enjoy dedicated entertainment for families and kids, both on the beaches and in shaded areas.
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Can I plan and book the activities to do on the sland before the cruise?
Yes, all excursions, beverages and MSC Aurea Spa treatments can be booked in advance. Also, you can book directly on board at the relevant information desks or through the MSC for Me app (only on the MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia).
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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 (only on MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia)
- at the Welcome Centre, located at the plaza directly on Ocean Cay itself.
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Which entertainment options are available on the island?
From sports tournaments and dance lessons to live music, you can enjoy a fantastic variety of activities on Ocean Cay. At any time, you can choose to go back to the ship, where the shops, casino and spa will remain open and entertainment activities will carry on as usual.
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Can I do some shopping?
- Ocean Cay Trading Post Here you can choose from a wide selection of Ocean Cay souvenirs and gifts for both adults and children, ranging from T-shirts, caps, beach items, towels and accessories. You will also find beach essentials like sunscreen lotions and lip balms.
- Bahamian Straw Market For arts and crafts by local artisans and more, the Bahamian Straw Market is a fun place to shop. The Market accept only cash (USD) as a form of payment.
Food and drinks
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Where can I get food on the island?
An island paradise wouldn’t be an island paradise without great food and you will find a mouth-watering choice on Ocean Cay:
- Buffet This is the place to be for freshly prepared meals from a variety of international culinary traditions, including American classics and authentic Bahamian flavours, conveniently located near the family lagoon.
- Food Trucks Food trucks with snacks, hot dogs. etc will also move around the island, so you can enjoy your favourites wherever they want.
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Where can I get beverages or ice creams on the island?
- Tiki Bars There are 7 tiki bars spread across the island, each with its own personality and its own special look and feel.
- Springer’s Managed by the Bahamian Springer family and located in the marina, this friendly bar offers cocktails and drinks in authentic Bahamian style.
- Lighthouse Bar This Hemingway-style cocktail bar offers an ample selection of rums, other spirits and delicious cocktails, all served with incredible sea views.
- Coffee Bar The coffee 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.
- Ice Cream Parlour Located in the marina and in partnership with San Bernardo Ice Cream, this venue offer hundreds of different kinds of ice cream, from classics to more innovative flavours with a Bahamian twist.
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Do onboard beverages packages include food and drinks on the island?
No. Food and drinks on the island are not included in the cruise ticket or any beverage packages purchased while on board. However, you can upgrade any onboard beverage packages to include unlimited drinks on Ocean Cay. But since the ship is docked at the island itself, you can go back on board at any time to take advantage of the onboard buffet.
Transportation and payment
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How can I pay on the island?
All payments on the island are booked to your Cruise Card. The only place that does not accept the Cruise Card is the Bahamian Straw Market, where only cash is accepted.
