MSC Cruises unveiled it had passed a major milestone in the construction of line's new private island destination in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. The planting of the first trees marked 1 year until the destination officially begins welcoming MSC Cruises guests.
Landscaping work is underway in the previous industrial sand extraction spot, with the purpose to turn it into a marine reserve and private island destination. More than 75,000 native plants and shrubs will be planted, of which over 60 types of indigenous Caribbean grasses, flowers, shrubs and trees to create a tropical environment.
Work is soon to be started on more than 100 environmentally friendly structures, which include restaurants, bars, housing for staff and employees who will live on the isle. Work on the lighthouse is also to be underway soon - set to become island's landmark and a focal point of evening’s entertainment for travellers.
One of the most distinguishing features of Ocean Cay will be a pier allowing the cruise ships to dock alongside the island so that passengers can walk on and off at their leisure.
MSC Cruises is in the process of recreating the seabed that is surrounding the island, soon be repopulated with various marine life.
MSC Cruises said it was working in collaboration with Bahamian environmental experts, environmental auditors, and other entities in order to ensure that best practices were followed. Plans are underway for Ocean Cay's marine laboratory, which is due to research climate change-resistant coral.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is scheduled to open in November 2019 with 4 MSC Cruises ships visiting on different days. These liners are MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Armonia and MSC Divina.