Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

An exclusive resort
MSC Marine Reserve
Restaurants and tiki bars

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Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Ocean Cay, a Unique Island

A cruise to the Caribbean on an MSC cruise ship will take you to the most beautiful beaches in the world. Ocean Cay is part of the Bimini chain of islands in the western Bahamas, close to Bimini and Miami. MSC Cruises has helped this country set up an exclusive spot for vacationing in harmony with nature in one of its most astonishing locations: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 
 
You will discover seven splendid beaches, a vast calm lagoon, the harmonious lines of the typical houses of a Bahamian village and much more. The crown jewel of Ocean Cay are the aquatic sports activities, suitable for adults and children. 
 
In addition, one of the island’s beaches located a short distance from where the ships are docked and fully equipped, is dedicated to families. Located a short distance from where the ships are docked and the area is fully equipped. The more romantic guests, on the other hand, will be able to celebrate their wedding on the northern beach or simply take a stroll at sunset. 
 
MSC Cruises excursions include an underwater exploration of the MSC Marine Reserve with its astounding tropical underwater life.
 
The attractions of this unique island also include its seaside restaurants and tiki bars, while the expert staff of Aurea Spa will offer massages and beauty treatments in sea view cabanas.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve map

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Experiencing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Ocean Cay holiday experiences

BEACHES

BEACHES

Ocean Cay boasts miles of pristine white sand, lovingly curated and spread over seven distinct beach areas, each with its own allure and charm. Each beach offers plenty of sun beds, and some also have a limited number of cabanas, which you can rent for the day. 

The largest beach area, composed by the North Beach and the South Beach, is a haven with shallow crystal-clear water for protected swimming and water sports.
At over half a mile long, the Sunset Beach area is the largest stretch of beach on the island, as well as the place to go to enjoy a variety of water.
Located nearby there is the Seakers Family Cove, a family beach designed for the enjoyment of the younger ones, with very shallow water and plenty of toys.
A lively beach with great views of the Lighthouse, the Lighthouse Bay is also a great place of relaxation for all guests.
The ideal place to relax, Aurea Paradise Sands is perfect for the guests who want to enjoy a massage or a facial treatment in a cabana overlooking the Ocean Cay turquoise waters.
The Bimini Beach is calm and with beautiful views of the open Bahamian Sea.
 
To make the most of your day on the beach you can rent inflatable items and snorkeling equipment, available at several outlets. 
Lifeguards are on duty in on all the beaches on the main island.

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FAMILY & KIDS

FAMILY & KIDS

The North and South Beaches are dedicated to families with kids. Boasting shallow water and a floating submarine attraction, they're the ideal place for children to have fun in absolute safety.
Lifeguards are on duty in on this and all the other beaches on the island.
The buffet, is conveniently located near the beaches, so guets don’t have to go far when hunger strikes.
Guests can also enjoy dedicated entertainment for families and kids, both on the beaches and in a series of shaded areas.
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ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

From sports tournaments and dance lessons to live music, you can enjoy a fantastic variety of activities on Ocean Cay.  

At any time, you can also choose to go back on board the ship, where the shops, casino and spa will remain open and entertainment activities will carry on as usual.

​SHOPPING

​SHOPPING

In case you don’t want to relax all day on the beach, and maybe you prefer to mix your sunbathing with a bit of shopping, well then on Ocean Cay you can do both! 
  
Ocean Cay Trading Post 
Here guests can take home some great memories of our unique island and choose from a wide selection of exclusive Ocean Cay souvenirs and gifts inspired by nature.  We have products for both adults and children, ranging from T-shirts, caps, beach items, towels, stuffed animals, mugs, accessories, and housewares.  
  
MSC Shop 
Everything guests need for a fantastic day on Ocean Cay is available from the MSC shop.  Guests will find all the essentials for the day for all the family.  The great selection of MSC branded products, like hats, flip-flops, towels, beach bags, sun creams, lip balms.  Guests will also find a number of exclusive partnership products highlighting the marine sustainable values of the island.

Ocean Cay Visitor Center 
For any pre-ordered essential items, Ocean Cay survival kits, essentials, must haves and top tips for your day on Ocean Cay, head over to the visitor center where we can assist you with some great ideas, suggestions and information. 
  
Bahamian Shop & Market 
For authentic arts and crafts by local artisans and more, the Bahamian Shop & Market are the fun places to shop. 
Unlike other venues on the island, the Bahamian Market does not accept the Cruise Card as a form of payment, so please remember to bring some cash. 
  
Rental station 
The Rental Station is the place to rent snorkelling gear for the whole family, as well as kayaks, paddleboards, inner tubes and other water sports equipment. It is located close to every beach of the island.
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EXCURSIONS

EXCURSIONS

There is a wide variety of exciting excursions to choose from on Ocean Cay above and below the water, perfect for fun or sun seekers. To get your heart racing we invite you to come snorkelling over a colourful reef or take flight on a parasailing adventure, changing modes, you can enter the chill zone by reserving a beach cabana and spend the day drifting on a floating mat. The fun does not stop once the sun goes down as Ocean Cay has great night time tours to keep you entertained, stargazing on the beach, night time glass bottom boats and romantic sunset cruises brings your perfect day to a close. 
 
Tours can be booked in any of the following ways:
  • Before cruising, savings up to 20% off on board prices, directly with your travel agent or via the MSC Cruises website or 
  • On-board the ship we have a team of destination experts on hand to advise and reserve tours, or if you already know what you would like to do, you can book through the MSC for me app. 
  • Lastly, experiences are also available for booking on the island at the information desk in the plaza or from any activity desk.
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Discover our excursions

    Ocean Cay holiday services

    MSC AUREA SPA

    MSC AUREA SPA

    In this area you can enjoy special locally inspired services provided by the award-winning MSC Aura SPA, in the beautiful setting of Ocean Cay, choosing from a selection of relaxing body and facial treatments.
    We suggest you book any treatments you desire in advance, using the MSC for Me app on your mobile device or on the onboard touch screens.
    Naturally, all beauty products used on the island are bio-degradable and eco-friendly.
     
    Ocean Cay Breeze Boost massage: a body and foot massage that includes the use of aromatic spray waters with soothing / refreshing properties, mainly aimed at the legs, feet and back, that are the parts of the body normally more exposed to sun. A real freshness booster!
     
    Ocean Cay Breeze Facial: Thanks to the soothing properties of a calming mask and refreshing spray waters, give yourself 50 minutes of relaxation and relief for the delicate skin on your face exposed to the sun. At the end of the treatment your skin will be tonic and regenerated. Ideal in the warm sunny days of the Bahamas. 


    We’ll also perform Yoga lessons on the beach near the SPA.

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    DINING & BARS

    DINING & BARS

    Ocean Cay is a marine reserve and we are committed to preserving this in its pristine state. Our aim is to minimise unnecessary waste, while providing our guests with an ample choice of services.   
    To minimize waste while on the island food and drinks will be served primarily on the ship, where all restaurants, buffet and bars will be operating regularly. Remember, the ship is docked at the island and you can come and go at any time.  
    On the island itself there are several options including a few bars, buffet and informal food carts – not included in your standard cruise ticket or on-board beverage package; but you can upgrade your onboard beverage package to include unlimited drinks on Ocean Cay. 
    • Seaker's Buffet 
      Freshly prepared meals from a variety of international culinary traditions, including American classics and authentic Bahamian flavours, and several kids-favourites. 

    • Food carts 
      If you don’t feel like a sit-down meal, food carts with high-quality casual street food; we will have a taco truck, conch fitter truck, and much more. The trucks will be stationary during the day around the beaches, and will move to the marine area at night creating a food truck festival.
    • Springers  
      Established by the famous Bahamian Springers family and located in the Marina, this friendly bar offers cocktails and drinks in an authentic Bahamian style.  

    • Lighthouse Bar  
      A red and white lighthouse rises 30 feet above the island, providing a striking landmark and a useful orientation point. It is also home to a Hemingway-style bar and a terrace where guests can enjoy the view as they sip a refreshing cocktail. Here guests can enjoy live music with DJs and a surprising visual experience that will further enhance the atmosphere.   

    • Beach Bars
      There are 7 beach bars spread across the island, each with its own personality and its own special look and feel.  

    • Ice Cream Parlour and Coffee Bar  
      Located in the marina and in partnership with San Bernardo Ice Cream, this venue offer hundreds of different kinds of ice cream, from classics to more innovative flavours with a Bahamian twist.  
      The coffee bar offers freshly brewed whole bean and ground coffee, espresso and cappuccino for an energetic start to your day on Ocean Cay or a quick boost later on.
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    OTHER SERVICES

    OTHER SERVICES

    Wifi

    Ocean Cay is equipped with wifi. The ship’s wifi works only to a limited distance on the island.
    If you wish to stay connected with your friends and family during your stay on Ocean Cay you can buy one of our wifi packages or you can upgrade your onboard one. 


    Transport

    Getting around the island on foot is easy since everything is close by, maps are readily available, and our friendly staff is there to help you. A network of shaded paths provides access to every location, a 5-10-minute walk will take you to most places, as the most distant area is only a 20-minute walk away. But if you want to get around effortlessly, you can use a complimentary electric cart service. 
     
    Equipment rental
    Every beach on Ocean Cay has its own rental station, located behind the public restrooms; there you can rent mats, beach umbrellas and snorkelling gear.
     
    Restrooms
    Every beach on Ocean cay is equipped with restrooms. They are clearly indicated on the island map and on the signs around the island.
     
    Payment
    All payments on the island are managed via your Cruise Card.
    The only place that does not accept the Cruise Card is the Bahamian Market, only cash is accepted.

    Smaller island around Ocean Cay

    Ocean Cay is flanked by two smaller islands, one of which can be rented privately for the day. The island can accommodate a maximum of 30 guests.

     

    Rental of the island for 1 day includes:

    • a private boat that will take our guest and their party to the island and remain at their disposal;

    • a marquee, sun beds and loungers;

    • food and drinks;

    • inner tubes and inflatable floats.

    • Near the island is an old ship wreck that is home to spider coral, making it a wonderful spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.

     

     
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    FAQ

    Topic

    Questions

      • Where is Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve?

        Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is part of the Bimini chain of islands in the western Bahamas, 20 miles (32 km) south of Bimini and just 104.5 km (65 miles) east of Miami.

      • Where does the ship dock? How do I reach the island?

        Ships dock on the quay right alongside the main plaza, at the point where sea and shore meet. The island offers walking paths to every destination and easy-to-follow signs.

      • If I want want to reach my cabin – can I come back to the ship any time?

        Yes, ship cabins are always accessible, as well as restaurants and entertainment activities onboard. You should always possess of cruise cards to enter and exit the ship.

      • Is there an Information Centre?

        Yes, all required information is provided at the Welcome Centre, where our staff will be happy to provide you with all the details you need and will be at your disposal to book any excursions or activities. You will also find a map of the island at the Welcome Centre.

      • Are sunbeds and umbrellas on the beaches?

        The islands’ wonderful beaches feature sunbeds free of charge, while umbrellas and cabanas are available for hire for a fee. In addition, restrooms can be found on every beach. They are clearly indicated on the island map and on the signs around the island.

      • What about safety on the beach?

        MSC Cruises is always at pains to ensure the safety of our Guests. Therefore, a lifeguard is on duty on every beach to supervise the safety of beachgoers.

      • Where can I rent equipment for water sports?

        Ocean Cay offers facilities for many water-based activities. You will find a rental station close to each of the island’s beaches, where you will be able to rent snorkelling gear for the whole family, as well as kayaks, paddleboards, inner tubes and other water sports’ equipment. On the Snorkel Beach there is even a place to rent scuba-diving as well as snorkelling equipment.

      • Where can I get food on the island?

        An island paradise wouldn’t be an island paradise without great food and you will find a mouth-watering choice on Ocean Cay: 

        Buffet 
        This is the place to be for freshly prepared meals from a variety of international culinary traditions, including American classics and authentic Bahamian flavours. Conveniently located near the family lagoon. 

        Food Trucks 
        Food trucks with snacks, hot dogs. etc will also move around the island, so you can enjoy your favourites wherever they want.

      • Where can I get beverages or ice creams on the island?

        Tiki Bars  
        There are 8 tiki bars spread across the island, each with its own personality and its own special look and feel. 
          
        Springer’s  
        Managed by the Bahamian Springer family and located in the marina, this friendly bar offers cocktails and drinks in authentic Bahamian style.  

        Lighthouse Bar  
        This Hemingway-style cocktail bar offers an ample selection of rums, other spirits and delicious cocktails, all served with incredible sea views.  

        Coffee Bar  
        The coffee bar offers freshly brewed whole bean and ground coffee, espresso and cappuccino for an energetic start to the day on Ocean Cay or a quick boost throughout the day.  

        Ice Cream Parlour  
        Located in the marina and in partnership with San Bernardo Ice Cream, this venue offers hundreds of different kinds of ice cream, from classics to more innovative flavours with a Bahamian twist.

      • Do onboard beverages packages include food and drinks on the island?

        No. Food and drink on the island is not included in the cruise ticket or any beverage packages purchased while on board. However, you can upgrade any onboard beverage packages to include unlimited drinks on Ocean Cay. But since the ship is docked at the island itself, you can go back on board at any time to take advantage of the onboard buffet.

      • What can I do on the island?

        The Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is full of amazing activity options: 
        • Ocean Cay boasts miles of pristine white sand, lovingly curated and spread over seven distinct beach areas, each with its own allure and charm. 
        • A wide variety of dining and drinking options – including a buffet, seven beach tiki bars, two signature bars, several food trucks as well as an ice cream parlour and coffee bar. 
        • The island’s authentic Bahamian-style village with a wide range of places to shop, eat, drink and relax. 
        • At the signature red-and-white lighthouse, a Hemingway-style bar and terrace will offer cocktails and a sweeping ocean view. 
        • Ocean Cay excursions will allow you to explore, discover, relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. 
        • At the MSC Aurea Spa, you can choose from a range of relaxing body and facial treatments and enjoy the added benefit of spectacular island view. 
        • Guests will be entertained by DJs, live Bahamian music and dance lessons.

      • Which family-friendly activities are available?

        Ocean Cay is a paradise for children. The Great Lagoon beach area is dedicated to families with kids. Boasting shallow water and a floating submarine attraction, it’s the ideal place for children to have fun in absolute safety. You can also enjoy dedicated entertainment for families and kids, both on the beaches and in shaded areas.

      • Can I plan and book the activities to do on island before the cruise?

        Yes, all excursions, beverages and MSC Aurea Spa treatments can be booked in advance. Also, you can book directly on board at the relevant information desks or through the MSC for Me app (only on MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia).

      • How can I book excursions?

        Excursions can be booked in any of the following ways:
        • Prior to the cruise via the MSC website,
        • On board the ship, either at the Excursions’ Desk or via the MSC for Me app (only on MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia)
        • At the Welcome Centre, located at the plaza directly on Ocean Cay itself.

      • Which entertainment options are available on the island?

        From sports tournaments and dance lessons to live music, you can enjoy a fantastic variety of activities on Ocean Cay. At any time, you can choose to go back to the ship, where the shops, casino and spa will remain open and entertainment activities will carry on as usual.

      • Can I do some shopping?

        Ocean Cay Trading Post
        Here you can choose from a wide selection of Ocean Cay souvenirs and gifts for both adults and children, ranging from T-shirts, caps, beach items, towels and accessories. You will also find beach essentials like sunscreen lotions and lip balms.

        Bahamian Straw Market 

        For arts and crafts by local artisans and more, the Bahamian Straw Market is a fun place to shop. The Market accepts only cash (USD) as a form of payment.

      • Is this island big? Will I have to walk long distances to visit places?

        The most distant place on the island is only a 20-minute walk away, and easy-to-follow signs will guide you to wherever you wish to go. In addition, electric carts are available to transport you around the island.

      • How can I pay on the island?

        All payments on the island will be processed through your Cruise Card. The only place that does not accept the Cruise Card is the Bahamian Straw Market, where only cash is accepted.

      • Is WiFi available on the island?

        Ocean Cay is equipped with WiFi. The ship’s WiFi works only over a limited distance on the island. To stay connected on the island, you can buy an island WiFi package or upgrade the onboard one.