Guide to the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Private Island

Several popular cruise lines offer private island destinations exclusively for guests. While some are completely private islands, others are more like beach resorts. MSC's private island, however, is a bit different from the rest. MSC has worked to restore the coral reefs surrounding the island, and recently opened a Marine Conservation Center.

In addition, unlike other cruise lines, MSC often spends late hours and even overnight at its private destination. You'll want to check your cruise itinerary to see if your sailing includes a visit there.

It's free to visit, although you'll pay for excursions and other extras. The food on the island is included, but there are some upcharges (for example, lobster rolls), and alcohol is extra.

When your ship docks on Ocean Cay, it's a quick walk off the ship to the island. It's probably the easiest private island I've visited on a cruise. The island is walkable, but there's also a tram if you don't want to spend too much time walking in the sun.

Disclosure: My sailing on the MSC World America (with a visit to the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve) was complimentary for review. All opinions are my own.

Guide to the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Private Island

Location of Ocean Cay Marine Reserve

Ocean Cay is located in the Bimini region of the Bahamas. This area is not too far from the coast of Miami, but it is further north than the Caribbean islands. Check the weather before you go, because while it is still hot there, it may be cooler than you'd expect in the winter.

During our April sailing, the weather at Ocean Cay was absolutely perfect. It was sunny, with a very light wind and minimal clouds in the sky.

Excursions and Other Things to Do on Ocean Cay

While you can return to the ship if you forgot something, it's always best to bring along everything you'll need for the day. This will include sunscreen, a bathing suit, beach toys/supplies, a book to read, and your key card. Also, bring the towels from your room - you can exchange them for fresh towels on the island.

If you have purchased a Wi-Fi package for your sailing, you can access Wi-Fi while on Ocean Cay. It's a separate network, but is included in your package.

Marine Conservation Center

The Marine Conservation Center opened in April 2025, at the same time as the launch of MSC World America. Guests can visit the welcome hub and discovery center, take a guided tour, experience the interactive exhibits, and participate in conservation activities. It's right off the entrance to the island and is very easy to access.

Lighthouse Show

Because MSC cruises often spend evenings and overnights at Ocean Cay, they have the opportunity to do a fun show. An LED light shows projections on the island's lighthouse, right by the ship. It's fun to see, and worth venturing to the island to experience.

The Spa at Ocean Cay

Spa services are available on Ocean Cay through the Spa at Ocean Cay. Enjoy a massage right by the ocean - but be sure to book your experience as early as possible for the most availability. Yoga is also offered - check the schedule to see the times.

Excursions on Ocean Cay

For the best availability, excursions on MSC Ocean Cay should be booked in advance. These are offered for an additional fee. However, even if you don't book an excursion or cabana, there are plenty of beach chairs to enjoy a beach day at Ocean Cay. There are complimentary umbrellas on Lighthouse Beach, or you can rent one.

Some activities and sports are also available on the island, but Ocean Cay doesn't include a kids' club. Check the schedule to see what is offered for the day.

• Kayaking
• Jet skiing
• Lighthouse climb
• Cabana rentals
• Paddle boarding
• Guided island hike

Beaches on Ocean Cay

Ocean Cay Marine Reserve offers several great beaches for guests to experience. During our visit, we decided to spend some time on the beach, and I loved the beautiful, soft sand and gorgeous turquoise water.

You can walk to the beaches, or a tram is also available. The Ocean Cay beaches include:

• Ocean House Beach: A dedicated MSC Yacht Club beach area
• Bimini Beach
• Paradise Sands Beach
• Sunset Beach
• North Beach
• South Beach
• Lighthouse Bay Beach: The beach closest to the ship, which includes umbrellas and bean bag chairs

Food on Ocean Cay

There's no need to return to the ship for lunch - Ocean Cay offers several different dining venues where you can get lunch. Lunch options include:

Seakers Food Court: Offers a BBQ buffet, or grab and go options if you don't want to wait in line.

Springer's Bar and Lighthouse Bar: Grab a drink from one of these open-air bars. If you've purchased a drinks package for your sailing, it can be used on your MSC cruise.

Beach Shack Food Trucks: Several of these food trucks are located throughout the island. They offer things like hamburgers and lobster rolls (for an additional charge).

Shopping on Ocean Cay

In my opinion, Ocean Cay offers the best shopping of all the private islands and destinations that I've visited. In addition to MSC and MSC Ocean Cay-branded merchandise, you'll find shops with local souvenirs and products.

I'd recommend that you spend some time visiting the shops during your time at Ocean Cay. They don't accept credit cards, so you must have a card on file on your MSC cruise and pay with your key card.