MSC Cruises, today started works on their private island “Ocean Cay Marine Reserve” in the Bahamas. The visionary project was officially inaugurated yesterday afternoon in the Bahamian capital Nassau, where Prime Minister Perry Christie and Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, Pierfrancesco Vago, signed a 100-year lease that will allow MSC Cruises to occupy and develop their activities on the island. Located south of Bimini, Ocean Cay is scheduled to be open in November 2018.With 38.5 hectares and 3.5 km cost line including six different beaches, "Ocean Cay" will be the largest project carried out by a cruise company in the Caribbean. In addition pier will be built on the seafront, which means that MSC Cruises passengers will be able to disembark from the cruise ship and walk directly on the island. 

Over the next period MSC Cruises will work hand-in-hand with the Government of the Bahamas and with ecologists to turn the island in a thriving reserve to harmonize with the existing ecosystem. This project will transform the core of the local economy by conserving resources rather than exploiting them. Also, in keeping with the company's commitment to ensure a true cruise vacation, the island will offer some of the best beaches in the world, in addition with endless experiences inspired by the Caribbean.

“Located merely 65 miles east of Miami, Florida, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has 11,400 feet of beautiful coastline and crystal blue waters teaming with unique marine life. The island has some of the finest aragonite sands in the world and once the work is completed, its surrounding waters will be home again to beautiful corals and rich aquatic life” said MSC head of global port development and shore side activities Gianluca Suprani. “Working in partnership with the Government of The Bahamas, our aim is to turn an industrial wasteland into a thriving environment for man and nature alike, bringing the island and its surrounding waters back to their original stat. We will substantially grow our Group’s already strong investment in the Bahamian economy, offering long-term employment opportunities to the local population.”