Ocean Cay Bahamas is an exclusive island owned by MSC Cruises, located in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and conveniently close to Miami. Its proximity to the American mainland makes it a perfect destination for those looking for a quick yet fully immersive getaway in a tropical paradise.
Ocean Cay Island MSC Marine Reserve
Disembarkation at Ocean Cay is smooth and efficient. The ship docks right next to the island, and passengers walk ashore in complete comfort. As soon as we set foot on land, we were welcomed by a breathtaking landscape and began exploring the island, known for its unique and organic shape.
In the central area, the waters are calmer, perfect for those who want to relax, swim, or simply float. Although the water clarity is not as intense as in the more remote areas, the entire path offers impressive views and several opportunities to spot local marine life.
Food and Drink Packages
The island features several bars scattered throughout. At these spots, you can use the same drink package purchased onboard the ship, which is a big advantage for convenience and savings. However, it is worth noting that some bars may have a more limited drink menu compared to the full selection available on board.
As part of MSC’s integrated experience, meals at Ocean Cay are also included in the cruise package, keeping the same standard of quality and variety that guests already enjoy on the ship. This makes planning your day much easier since you can fully enjoy the island without worrying about extra meal costs.
Things to Do in Ocean Cay
Water Sports and Activities
For adventure lovers, Ocean Cay offers exciting Jet Ski rides as well as more relaxed options, such as renting kayaks to explore the calm waters of the area.
Beach Comfort
You can rent chairs and umbrellas for just US$ 17. This way, you can enjoy the beach with more comfort, or, like we did, choose to walk and explore the entire island on foot.
Where to Have Lunch
At lunchtime, the island’s restaurants can get quite crowded. To avoid long lines, a good alternative is to head back to the ship and enjoy a more relaxed meal.
Getting Around the Island
The island has transportation via golf carts, but waiting times can be long. Therefore, we recommend walking: it’s not only faster but also a pleasant way to enjoy the scenery.
The Ocean Cay Lighthouse
The Lighthouse is one of the most beautiful spots on the island. At its base, there is a bar that is perfect for sipping a drink while admiring the panoramic views. It’s without a doubt one of the highlights of the visit.
Our Experience
We decided to return to the ship for lunch and go back to the island later. However, the exit was overcrowded, so we gave up. It turned out to be a good choice: from the top of the ship, we captured amazing photos and watched how the water colors changed throughout the day.
In the end, Ocean Cay gave us unforgettable moments — a destination that deserves to be explored slowly and cherished in your memory.
The History of Ocean Cay Island with the MSC Marine Reserve
Industrial Origins of Ocean Cay: The Sand Mining Era
The story of Ocean Cay begins in the 1960s, when the island was identified as a rich source of aragonite, a type of very pure and fine sand. This sand was highly valuable due to its superior quality, being used in various industries, from construction to glass production and filtration processes.
Island Development for Mining
To facilitate sand extraction, Ocean Cay underwent a major transformation. Mining companies installed the necessary infrastructure, including heavy equipment and processing areas. This activity drastically changed the island’s natural landscape and heavily impacted the ecosystem. Large areas were dug out, disrupting natural habitats and creating an environment very different from the original Bahamian ecosystem.
Environmental Impact
At the peak of mining, Ocean Cay was not only an extraction site but also a major export hub. Ships carried aragonite sand to different parts of the world. This intense industrial activity significantly affected the local marine environment, impacting water quality, marine life, and the surrounding coral reefs.
Decline of the Mining Era
Over time, mining activities on Ocean Cay began to decrease. Changes in environmental policies and reduced demand for aragonite contributed to the decline. Eventually, the island stopped being an active mining site.
From Mining Site to Cruise Destination
After mining operations ended, Ocean Cay remained largely unused until it was acquired by MSC Cruises. Recognizing the island’s unique potential, the company transformed it into an exclusive destination for its passengers, starting an extensive environmental restoration and sustainable development project.
The transformation of Ocean Cay from an industrial site into an eco-conscious tropical retreat is a remarkable example of recovery and repurposing of a space once dedicated to environmentally harmful activities. Today, the island stands as a testament to conservation and restoration, offering visitors a unique experience that blends tourism, leisure, and respect for nature.
For more tips about Cruises, read:
Cozumel Travel Guide: Best Tours and Things to Do from the Cruise Port
Planning a Caribbean Cruise: Documents, Insurance and Packing Guide
Cruise Packing Guide: What to Bring and What’s Not Allowed
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