MSC Cruises’ New Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Cleans Up Island in the Bahamas for Cruisers to Enjoy
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve features a Lighthouse that has a light show at night. You also can climb the tower for amazing views of the entire island.
Cruise lines have long battled the perception that they are part of the problem when it comes to the environment and conservation.
In decades past, that reputation was well earned.
MSC Cruises, however, has made it a mission to be part of the solution. And the signature project for the world’s fastest-growing cruise line is something the entire cruise industry can be proud of — and should use as a template for responsible development of private cruise destinations.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is an eco-friendly port that opened in December 2019 after a three-year cleanup and rehabilitation project that transformed a former industrial sand-excavation site in the Bimini Islands chain.
The 95-acre island is located just 65 miles from downtown Miami, and MSC partnered with scientists and engineers to build a gorgeous cruise destination that features soft white sands, mesmerizing blue waters and plenty of watersports activities.
The marine life, such as sharks, rays and tropical fish, is returning to the waters as the coral reef around the cay and the seabed and seagrasses improve. The marine reserve features 64 miles of protected waters, and you won't find swimming pools, ziplines or waterslides at Ocean Cay.
Instead, it’s a destination where cruisers can come to embrace the beauty of nature and interact a bit with the marine life in a natural way. Ocean Cay also will have a Conservation Center that will be an active base for resident scientists to study the coral, seagrass and marine creatures. The educators will also interact with passengers to help them learn more about Ocean Cay and marine conservation.
Dr. Owen R. O'Shea, a research scientist at the Centre for Ocean Research & Education (CORE), has worked alongside MSC Cruises on the development of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. I spoke with him at length about the significance of the project and its importance in raising awareness among travelers.
Check out the full interview in my video below:
We’re excited that companies like MSC Cruises are taking a leadership role in educating travelers and creating new experiences that aim to have a positive impact on the environment. What do you think?
Thanks for reading, and remember to always travel happy!
JR