MSC Expands Ocean Cay With Two-Ship Pier, New Facilities by 2027

MSC Cruises is moving ahead with a major expansion of its private island destination, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve near Bimini in The Bahamas, with upgrades targeted for completion in late 2027. The project includes new guest facilities and an extended pier designed to let two ships dock at the same time, alongside expanded dining, beach programming, and conservation-focused experiences.

Late-2027 buildout follows a January 2026 announcement

MSC announced the new round of enhancements on Jan. 28, 2026, and said construction has already begun on the pier extension. Ocean Cay opened in 2019 and was developed from a former industrial site, with MSC undertaking restoration work as part of the destination’s development.

Pier extension aims to support two-ship days at Ocean Cay

A central operational change is the pier expansion, which would increase Ocean Cay’s berthing capability from one ship docked directly at the island to two ships alongside once work is completed in late 2027. MSC has framed the upgrade as a capacity and logistics improvement, including reducing reliance on tendering for a second ship when two vessels call on the same day.

MSC has not released additional operational specifics, including how calls will be scheduled once the second berth is available. The timing also aligns with MSC’s broader growth plans, including the debut of MSC World Atlantic from Port Canaveral in November 2027 and the opening of the cruise line’s new Miami headquarters.

Four new dining venues planned, bringing the total to seven

MSC said Ocean Cay will add four new dining options, increasing the island’s total number of eateries to seven. The additions are expected to include buffets, food market-style offerings, and a signature specialty restaurant, with the overall expansion program targeted for late 2027.

The company has not published menus or individual opening dates for the new venues beyond the broader completion timeframe.

Family and adults-only beach areas anchor the guest-experience changes

MSC’s plans also emphasize new and expanded spaces for both families and adults seeking quieter areas.

• Seakers Cove Family Beach: The family area is slated to add a kids playground, a splash pad, and a ropes course with water elements. MSC also said activities like ping-pong and foosball will be part of the upgraded lineup.
• New family lagoon: The broader program includes a fully equipped family lagoon, though MSC has not shared detailed specifications in its initial announcement.
• Paradise Sands adults-only zone: MSC’s concept for Paradise Sands positions it as a daytime retreat that shifts toward sunset programming, including a cocktail-oriented atmosphere. Capacity details and whether access will be managed through reservations have not been disclosed.
• More cabanas: MSC said it will increase cabana capacity and broaden the range of cabana types, with options in different sizes and styles. Pricing and booking policies were not included with the initial upgrade details.

MSC Foundation program highlights Ocean Cay’s conservation messaging

MSC said it will introduce the MSC Foundation Shifting Perspective Experience, described as a hands-on way for guests to engage with marine conservation themes during their visit. Activities highlighted by the company include coral restoration components and interactive opportunities to learn about ocean ecosystems.

MSC has also pointed to Ocean Cay’s conservation positioning through third-party recognition: the island was designated a Hope Spot by Mission Blue in 2023.

Second private destination “Little Cay” confirmed next to Ocean Cay

Beyond Ocean Cay itself, MSC confirmed it is developing a second private island destination adjacent to Ocean Cay, internally referred to as Little Cay. MSC has not announced a public name, opening timeline, operational capacity, or detailed feature list for the new site.

The company has said Little Cay is intended to align with Ocean Cay’s nature-oriented positioning, with plans calling for beaches and resort-style amenities, including luxury facilities and water features. MSC said additional information about Little Cay, including timing, will be shared in the future, and no official statement from a named MSC Cruises executive was included with the initial details released about either project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When will Ocean Cay’s pier extension and new facilities be completed?

MSC Cruises has set a late 2027 completion target for the pier extension and the wider set of Ocean Cay upgrades announced in January 2026.

How many ships will Ocean Cay be able to dock after the pier expansion?

MSC said the extended pier is intended to allow two ships to dock simultaneously. Today, one vessel can dock directly at the island, and the expansion is also expected to reduce reliance on tendering for a second ship on two-ship days.

What is the MSC Foundation Shifting Perspective Experience?

MSC describes the MSC Foundation Shifting Perspective Experience as an on-island program focused on marine conservation. The company said activities will include hands-on elements such as coral restoration and interactive learning about ocean ecosystems.

What is “Little Cay”?

Little Cay is the internal name MSC uses for a second private island destination being developed next to Ocean Cay. MSC has not yet announced a public name, opening date, or detailed design and capacity information for the new destination.