MSC Group’s Cruise Division has unveiled plans for Sandy Cay, a new luxury private island in the Bahamas, set to open in 2028 alongside the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
MSC Group, the company behind MSC Cruises and Explore Journeys, has unveiled its plans for a new luxury private island in the Bahamas. MSC first hinted at the project in January 2026, but has now added more details in a press release. Sandy Cay, as the new destination will be called, should open its doors to the public in 2028.
“The success of Ocean Cay helped validate our long-term vision for private destinations, and ultimately led to the development of Sandy Cay. So, as MSC Cruises continues to grow … in North America, and we continue to increase capacity from U.S. homeports, adding Sandy Cay allows us to expand capacity while offering guests more variety and more tailored experiences in line with the brand,” Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises North America, said in an interview with USA TODAY.
Although it is located next to the already existing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the new island will act as its “intimate complement”. The island will be more secluded and will invite guests to immerse themselves in the natural rhythms of the ocean and the spirit of The Bahamas.
“It’ll have sort of its own soul and DNA, where elegance is fused with the authentic spirit of the Bahamas, preserving that very relaxed, genuine atmosphere that our guests love about Ocean Cay, but really an extension of that,” Torrent continues.
According to a first rendering shared by the MSC Group, guests should expect an island with pristine aragonite sand, surrounded by turquoise waters, and a collection of buildings and pools for cruise travellers to enjoy during their stopover. More details should follow soon.
MSC Cruises and private islands
The news of the opening comes in a busy year for MSC Cruises, and soon after the company’s announcement to enhance the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Plans include new facilities and experiences designed to further enhance the guest offering on the island, such as additional dining venues, new beach concepts for families and adults, expanded relaxation areas, and new ways for guests to engage with marine conservation through immersive experiences. Moreover, construction work has begun on extending the pier to accommodate two ships simultaneously. The novelties should be ready for guests to enjoy by late 2027.
The Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has been open since 2019. What was once a sand excavation site was cleared by MSC and “dedicated to the restoration of marine resources and the ongoing conservation of marine life”. For example, some 7,500 tons of scrap metal were removed from the site, while the company relocated coral to the area in an effort to encourage its growth and repopulation. During their stopover, MSC travellers can enjoy a drink, grab a bite, or participate in one of the many shore excursions.
