MSC Cruises has announced a new infrastructure development programme for its private island in the Bahamas.

The cruise line said its investment into Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve “stays true to the original vision” for the island, which was to “create a positive long-term impact” on the environment and the local communities.

The development will see a significant benefit for the Bahamian economy as well as the generation of jobs both for the construction work as well as long-term jobs for Bahamians to work on the island.

Enhancements will be made to the island with additional amenities for MSC’s guests who visit the destination, new amenities and accommodation for staff as well as operational and technical improvements and environmental infrastructure.

The line transformed Ocean Cay from an industrial sand excavation site to a marine reserve and private island destination which opened in 2019.

Guest facilities will be enhanced with the introduction of excursion centres to support watersport activities and island tours, a sea dive and snorkel centre, additional food and beverage outlets and other facilities.

MSC Cruises to ‘foster positive long-term impact’ with development

The MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre will be built as a base for biologists, coral reef experts and students. It will also house interactive pavilions, a lecture hall and coral exhibition tanks and provide passengers visiting the island with educational opportunities.

The development will also see a third solar farm installed as part MSC Cruises’ aim to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions for Ocean Cay, an advanced wastewater treatment plant, a landscaping plan to further diversify and develop the sustainable environment on the island with native and adaptive trees, grasses, and shrubs to provide erosion control, improve vegetation and support ecosystem health.

New accommodation buildings will provide new amenities for island staff, which will see an increase in staff numbers from 150 to 280.

It comes after the line confirmed the order of two new liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessels with French ship builder Chantiers de l’Atlantique earlier this month.