MSC Plans New Luxury Private Island
MSC Group has confirmed plans to develop a new private island that will be about one third the size of its existing Ocean Cay destination in the Bahamas. The as-yet-unnamed island, known internally as Little Cay, will be built on a natural sandbank to deliver an exclusive luxury experience for cruise guests. An MSC spokeswoman said the project offers an opportunity to extend the ethos of Ocean Cay by connecting visitors with nature, pristine beaches and the beauty of the ocean, while introducing enhanced facilities and water features.
According to MSC, Little Cay will remain faithful to the design and atmosphere of Ocean Cay, incorporating upscale amenities alongside unspoiled natural scenery. Guests can expect luxury cabanas, bespoke dining venues, relaxation areas and interactive water attractions that reflect MSC’s commitment to fusing environmental stewardship with premium hospitality. Although detailed renderings and construction timelines have not been released, MSC has emphasized its intent to preserve the island’s natural character and maintain sustainable development practices throughout the build process.
Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC’s executive chairman, commented that the new island will offer a distinct experience for each of MSC’s cruise brands. He explained that the design approach aims to create “an incredible luxury experience” while respecting the existing marine ecosystem and not detracting from the paradise currently provided by Ocean Cay. Vago added that the ability to develop entirely new private destinations underscores MSC’s expertise in crafting immersive guest environments from scratch.
The Little Cay project remains in its earliest planning stages, with MSC working closely with officials and partners in the Bahamas to secure necessary permits, environmental approvals and infrastructure agreements. There is no public schedule for groundbreaking, and MSC has not disclosed an estimated budget or expected completion date. The line said it will share further information as planning advances and site preparations begin.
MSC’s private island concept first debuted when Ocean Cay opened to guests in 2019. The island was transformed from an industrial sand excavation site into a luxury retreat included as a stop on all MSC Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami, Orlando and New York City. Since 2019, Ocean Cay has been a standout amenity on MSC Caribbean and Bahamas sailings.
In 2024, MSC invested approximately $100 million in a major renovation of Ocean Cay. The upgrades included installation of advanced storm and drain management systems, creation of new entertainment areas, the construction of three staff accommodation buildings, the opening of a private yacht club, the deployment of a solar farm and other sustainable amenities. These improvements were designed to increase the island’s capacity, enhance guest comfort and demonstrate MSC’s ongoing commitment to sustainable island operations.
By pursuing a second private island in the Bahamas, MSC aims to capitalize on growing guest demand for exclusive shore destinations and reinforce its position in the competitive cruise market. As Little Cay moves from concept to reality, MSC will look to replicate and build upon the successful formula that has made Ocean Cay a standout luxury offering in its global cruise network.
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