Geneva-based cruise company MSC is about to open its own private island in the Bahamas.image: msc cruises
The cruise company MSC treats itself to the ultimate luxury: a private island in the Bahamas that is reserved exclusively for its passengers.
April 15, 2026, 5:38 p.mApril 15, 2026, 5:38 p.m
Many people dream of being completely isolated from the world on vacation – without the danger of running into colleagues or acquaintances. MSC has a solution for this: Sandy Cay. This is the name of a small island paradise in the Bahamas with white sandy beaches and turquoise water.
The world’s third largest cruise line, based in Geneva, is about to open this new Caribbean destination – right next to its existing private island Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Designed as an “intimate setting” (not an exaggeration for a private island), Sandy Cay aims to offer an experience that is both “immersive and sophisticated” and invites a closer, intimate relationship with the elements – “more intimate, close to the sea and nature”.
More innovations
Big sister island Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, is undergoing a number of changes, including new facilities and experiences. New features for travelers include new dining concepts, redesigned beach areas for families and adults, expanded relaxation areas and new immersive experiences designed to empower guests to become more committed to protecting the marine environment.
Ocean Cay offers access to beaches, restaurants and bars, as well as shore excursions, and also serves as a research site to study the effects of climate change on marine habitats.
The success of Ocean Cay “reinforced our long-term vision of private destinations and led to the development of Sandy Cay,” explains Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises North America USA Today.
The addition of a new island to the portfolio not only allows the company to increase its capacity from US ports, but also to offer customers a greater variety of personalized experiences that remain true to the brand image, explains Lynn Torrent.
“Sandy Cay will have its own touch that combines elegance with the spirit of the Bahamas – while maintaining the very relaxed and authentic atmosphere that our customers love about Ocean Cay.”
Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises North America, told USA Today.
Guests from MSC Cruises and the Explora Journeys brand, which also belongs to the group, will have the opportunity to be the first to discover this new island paradise from 2028.
The news comes as the Swiss-Italian cruise group MSC Cruises continues to expand its land business. Subsidiary CTL Maritime announced this month the acquisition and redevelopment of part of the Grand Lucayan Resort on Grand Bahama. This will create a beach club for passengers on MSC cruises and the luxury brand Explora Journeys. (fwa)