• MSC Group’s Cruise Division marks groundbreaking ceremony for Sandy Cay, the new private island destination in The Bahamas, scheduled to open in 2028
• The project strengthens the Company’s long-term destination development strategy and continued investment in The Bahamas
• The destination will further enhance the Caribbean offering for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys
• Additional images and assets are available to view here.

GENEVA, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, MSC Group’s Cruise Division celebrated the official groundbreaking ceremony for Sandy Cay, its new luxury private island destination located in The Bahamas. The ceremony marks an important step in the development of the destination, where construction and site works are already well underway ahead of the island’s scheduled opening in 2028.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together representatives from MSC Group’s Cruise Division, government officials from The Bahamas and key project stakeholders to commemorate the milestone and reinforce the Company’s long-term commitment to destination development in The Bahamas.  

Attendees included Mr. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the MSC Group’s Cruise Division and The Hon. Philip Davis, KC, MP, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Located adjacent to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Sandy Cay was first announced in April 2026 and is being developed exclusively for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests. The destination has been designed to complement Ocean Cay by offering a distinct, intimate, elevated and immersive luxury experience.

Focused on wellness, relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings, Sandy Cay will bring guests into a secluded island escape with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, while staying true to the ethos that defines Ocean Cay—connecting guests to the natural beauty and rhythms of the ocean.

It will also offer curated experiences with exceptional dining, spaces to relax and unwind, private retreats, and attentive hospitality.

Sandy Cay reflects MSC Group Cruise Division’s vision of creating world-class destinations, delivering unforgettable experiences that celebrate the beauty, culture and spirit of The Bahamas.

Upgrades coming to Ocean Cay: Ocean Cay has become one of the most distinctive destinations on Caribbean itineraries. Guests can look forward to some exciting new developments on the island to enhance their experience, including additional dining venues, new beach concepts for families and adults, expanded relaxation areas, and new immersive experiences enabling guests to engage more deeply with marine conservation. Together, these developments reinforce the Company’s vision of creating destinations that continue to evolve alongside guest expectations while respecting and preserving the natural environment that makes The Bahamas so unique.

For guests sailing with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, Ocean Cay and Sandy Cay will offer unparalleled private island experiences. Whether seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, meaningful encounters with nature, family experiences, or elevated luxury escapes, guests will enjoy two distinct destinations, each with their own character while sharing the same commitment to environmental stewardship, authenticity and exceptional hospitality. Together, Ocean Cay and Sandy Cay represent the next phase of the Company’s vision to seamlessly connect life on board with unforgettable experiences ashore.

Notes to Editors: 

The Cruise Division of MSC Group, the privately-owned world leader in transportation, is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland with two distinct brands—MSC Cruises, covering the contemporary and premium segments and Explora Journeys, dedicated to the luxury segment.

MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America. A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 250 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality. For more information visit MSC Cruises.

Explora Journeys, launched in 2023, is the luxury ocean travel brand redefining the experience for a new generation of discerning travelers. The fleet, currently comprising three ships and expanding to six by 2028, offers effortless yet refined luxury. Guests embark on transformative journeys, connecting with the sea through exceptional itineraries that inspire discovery in all its forms. For more information visit Explora Journeys.

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SOURCE MSC Cruises USA