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MSC Cruises to Develop New Private Island in The Bahamas

MSC Cruises is set to create a new private island destination in The Bahamas. The cruise line already boasts an established private island that underwent redevelopment for guests in 2015. The new venture aims to provide an upscale beach experience for travelers.

In a bold initiative, MSC Cruises, recognized as the world’s third-largest cruise operator, is planning to construct a new island specifically for its patrons. Currently, the company owns and operates Ocean Cay Marine Preserve, a site revitalized in 2015 for luxury cruising after having originally been built in the late 1960s. The new island is projected to be approximately one-third the size of Ocean Cay.

Referred to informally as “Little Cay,” the upcoming island will be situated on a natural sandbank and is currently in the preliminary stages of development, undertaken with collaboration from The Bahamas government.

Sidney Sterling, the director of media relations for MSC Cruises USA, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “This presents an opportunity for us to further develop an exclusive luxury experience for our guests. This second island will stay true to the ethos of Ocean Cay, offering an experience that connects guests to nature, pristine beaches, and the beauty of the ocean plus luxury facilities and water features. More information will be shared as it becomes available.”

Pierfrancesco Vago, an executive chairman of MSC, emphasized the uniqueness of this project, highlighting, “This will offer a different experience for the different brands. We design the island to be an incredible luxury experience. We’re very proud and very happy to have developed again something from nothing like this so we don’t spoil the existing paradise.”

Little Cay will contribute to the array of private island options available to cruisers. The Bahamas is renowned for its exclusive island offerings, with Little Cay joining other private destinations like Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, Carnival’s Half Moon Cay, Montage Cay by Montage Hotels & Resorts, and Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay.

Additionally, on April 10, MSC Cruises inaugurated its new Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay, designed as an educational resource for biologists, scientists, students, and visitors alike. The island features eight beaches, enhancing its appeal as a prime destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and ecological awareness.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com