MSC Group’s Cruise Division has officially broken ground on Sandy Cay, a new luxury private island destination coming to The Bahamas in 2028.
Work on the island is already well underway, with construction and site development moving forward ahead of its planned opening. Once complete, Sandy Cay will give cruise guests another exclusive way to experience The Bahamas, with the destination expected to feature a more upscale and private-island atmosphere.
The groundbreaking marks a major step toward bringing the project to life and further expands MSC Group’s investment in private destinations throughout the region.
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.
