MSC Cruises has announced the temporary closure of Ocean Cay, its private island in the Bahamas. The island will undergo extensive renovation and expansion from April 7th to May 22nd, 2024, in which there will be no ship calls. The temporary closure has led to the adjustment of over 30 cruises, with alternative destinations such as Nassau and Freeport. However, the anticipation grows for the end of May 2024, when Ocean Cay will resume its role as a key destination for the MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape, and MSC Seashore.

The last ship to call before the renovation was on April 6th, 2024, with the MSC Divina making the final docking before the island's temporary hiatus. This period will pave the way for a series of ambitious upgrades aimed at enhancing guest experience while reinforcing the island's environmental conservation efforts. The grand reopening is scheduled for May 23, 2024, with the MSC Meraviglia to be the first to set sail to the revamped island.

What's New for Guests
Upon completion, visitors to Ocean Cay can look forward to an array of new features. These enhancements include the addition of excursion centers for water sports activities and island tours, a dedicated diving and snorkeling center, and a variety of new dining options.
Ocean Cay's transformation goes beyond guest amenities. MSC Cruises is dedicated to creating a sustainable future for the island, which was transformed from an industrial sand mining site into a marine protected area since its opening in 2019. The establishment of an MSC Foundation marine conservation center is among the key initiatives. This center will serve as a hub for marine biologists, coral reef experts, and students, featuring interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, and coral display tanks aimed at educating visitors about the significance of marine ecosystems.

Towards a Greener Island
In line with its eco-friendly vision, MSC Cruises will introduce a third solar farm and an advanced wastewater treatment plant on Ocean Cay. These installations are designed to reduce the island's greenhouse gas emissions significantly. Moreover, a comprehensive landscape plan will be implemented to enrich the island's biodiversity with native and adaptable flora, further contributing to the island's sustainable environment.