Development of new Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve begins in the Bahamas

Ground has been broken on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. The Chief Executive of MSC Cruises led the ceremony with the Prime Minister of the island nation, as well as other government officials, and it marks the first stage of development that will transform the marine reserve back to its former glory, whilst also accommodating 11 new next-generation smart ships.

MSC Cruises has broken ground on the brand new Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas during an official ceremony. The event was attended by Perry Gladstone Christie, the Prime minister of The Bahamas, and Pierfrancesco Vago, the Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises.

Scheduled to open in November, 2018, the island resort is located south of Bimini and will be exclusive to MSC guests visiting the Bahamas. The project is part of an €9 billion investment plan by MSC Cruises, which will also include the construction of 11 new smart ships that will be in service between 2017 and 2026.

Gianluca Suprani, the Head of Global Port Development and shore side activities at MSC Cruises, explained:

“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.”

And added:

“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.”

Development of the island resort will now commence, and it will be cleared of existing infrastructure so it can be transformed into a healthy marine reserve. More than 80 indigenous Caribbean trees, plants, grasses and flowers will be planted on the island so they can thrive in their natural habitat.

MSC Marine Reserve Ocean Cay Bahamas will be home to more than 10 pristine beaches, a calm turquoise lagoon, and architecture that reflects traditional Bahamian villages. Part of the island will cater for families and will have facilities and aquatic sports activities that will accommodate all ages, and there will also be scenic settings on the northern side for romantic weddings and honeymoons.

There will be a purpose-built berth and pier that will allow MSC cruise ships to dock directly at the reserve, and MSC Seaside and other MSC Cruises ships are expected to call at the island from November, 2018. Additional facilities include beachfront restaurants, tiki bars, and there will be another island linked to the main reserve that will be home to the Ocean Cay Yacht Club and Spa.

During their stay, holidaymakers can enjoy underwater snorkelling and scuba diving tours, and fun activities including kayaking, wind surfing, sailing, and beach volleyball. There will also be excursions to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, where tourists can explore attractions, sites and monuments including Fort Montague, Fort Charlotte, Adastra Gardens and Zoo, Blue Lagoon Island, the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, and Government House.