If you’re planning a family cruise holiday and dreaming of white sands, warm turquoise waters and a slice of the Bahamas that feels like it’s all yours, MSC Group has just announced something the whole family is going to love. Meet Sandy Cay, a brand new private island retreat opening in 2028, sitting alongside the already-popular Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the stunning Bahamian archipelago.
Designed exclusively for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests, Sandy Cay is set to become one of the most special stops on any family cruise itinerary – a spot where kids can splash in crystal-clear shallows, parents can finally exhale and the whole family can reconnect away from the noise of everyday life.
Sandy Cay
What makes Sandy Cay special?
The island takes its name from its aragonite sands – among the purest and brightest found anywhere in the world – and has been carefully designed to offer something a little different from a typical port of call. Rather than packed beaches and busy crowds, Sandy Cay promises a quieter, more immersive experience, where families can truly switch off and soak up the unspoilt natural beauty of the Bahamas.
Think glittering turquoise shallows stretching to the horizon, pristine shorelines the kids will want to explore for hours and that rare feeling of having discovered somewhere that still feels completely undiscovered.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
What about Ocean Cay?
If your family has already fallen for Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (and plenty have), there’s more good news. MSC Group has also confirmed a series of exciting upgrades coming to the existing island, including new dining venues, fresh beach concepts designed with families specifically in mind, expanded relaxation areas and new immersive marine conservation experiences that will get the kids curious about the ocean world around them.
Together, a refreshed Ocean Cay and the new Sandy Cay will give families two beautifully distinct island experiences to enjoy: one buzzing with activity, dining and hands-on nature discovery and one offering a laid-back escape that is more peaceful and unspoilt.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Who can visit Sandy Cay?
Sandy Cay will be available exclusively to guests sailing with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s luxury ocean line which launched in 2023. Whether you’re planning a full family cruise adventure or a more relaxed, refined voyage, Sandy Cay is well worth building your itinerary around.
When can I visit Sandy Cay?
Sandy Cay is set to welcome its first guests in 2028. For the latest on sailings and itineraries, visit msccruises.co.uk or explorajourneys.co.uk.
