MSC Cruises announced today that Ocean Cay will open on December 5, 2019.
The development of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has been a multi-year project in which MSC Cruises has worked with many partners to transform what was once an industrial sand excavation site into a stunning tropical destination, including the designation of the surrounding waters as a marine reserve.
It has been an extremely complex project, as MSC Cruises is fully committed to developing the destination in the most sustainable and eco-friendly possible. At the same time, although the company anticipated that the island would be ready to welcome its first passengers by mid-November, adverse weather conditions and last-minute operational issues have delayed its completion as it reached the final stages of preparation for its opening.
First, although Hurricane Dorian prompted the mobilization of 600 workers, the company took steps to maintain operations and deliver the project on time. However, in the following weeks, further adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and high waves, caused work stoppages lasting several days and created additional delays. This included severe weather in early November that required reinforcement of one of the beaches.
Secondly, last-minute issues with leveling the sand in some areas of the island, the completion of the second breakwater, and landscape aspects to be fully in line with the company's environmental criteria have created some last-minute operational problems that could impact the passenger experience.
Work on the island is an ongoing process, and the company's commitment to protecting, restoring, and conserving this beautiful cay is part of a multi-phase effort. In the coming months, MSC Cruises will open a Conservation Center and a coral nursery on the island, which will serve as a base for coral education and research.
A top priority for the company is providing an outstanding passenger experience at every destination, and Ocean Cay is no exception. As passengers begin arriving at Ocean Cay, they'll be greeted by panoramic views of crystal-clear waters and some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches. From early morning until late at night, they'll have ample time to soak up the Bahamian spirit and enjoy their day as they wish, from uninterrupted excursions to a day at the beach and activities to explore the ocean, as well as numerous bar and restaurant options.
MSC Cruises ships scheduled to arrive on the island before December 5, 2019, will be rerouted to alternative Caribbean destinations or will include a day at sea in their itinerary. Passengers will be compensated for missing their stop in Ocean Cay.
