MSC Cruises has announced a new infrastructure development programme for Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony in Bimini attended by the country’s Prime Minister The Honourable Philip Davis and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Honourable Chester Cooper along with other government officials.
The cruise line said that the further investment stays true to its original vision for the island, which was to create a positive long-term impact both in terms of the environment and the local communities.
MSC Cruises said that 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 cruise guests who visit the destination, new amenities and accommodation for staff as well as operational and technical improvements and environmental infrastructure.
The cruise line said it has transformed Ocean Cay from an industrial sand excavation site to a flourishing marine reserve and private island destination that opened in 2019 and has since won several prestigious awards for both tourism and environmental stewardship.
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.
The MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre will be built as a base for biologists, coral reef experts and students.
The island is home to the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Programme, which is considered a critical contribution to the contemporary understanding of coral reef resilience throughout the region.
The development will also see a third solar farm installed as part of MSC Cruises’ aim to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions for Ocean Cay, an advanced wastewater treatment plant and a landscaping plan.
New accommodation buildings will provide new amenities for island staff, which will see an increase in staff numbers from 150 to 280.
MSC Cruises also pledged to support the LJM Maritime Academy and the University of The Bahamas to enhance the training of Bahamians seeking to enter the maritime sector.
Five MSC Cruises ships – MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape and MSC Seashore- will visit Ocean Cay in winter 2023-24.
Click here for more exciting trade updates or browse Travel Pursuit UK for the latest travel news from your favourite travel brands!
