MSC Cruises plans Grand Bahama cruise complex and expanded Ocean Cay

MSC Cruises is planning a US$450 million investment in new cruise infrastructure on Grand Bahama Island, alongside further upgrades to its private destination, Ocean Cay, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to The Bahamas.

According to a report by the Nassau Guardian, the development will centre on Billy Cay in Freeport and include a new cruise pier and berthing infrastructure, supported by commercial areas and a visitor centre.

The project was announced by Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis, who said the government has “signed and advanced” the investment, describing it as a “serious expansion with real scale”.

Of the total investment, approximately US$400 million will be directed towards the new cruise complex at Billy Cay, while a further US$50 million will be used for upgrades at Freeport Harbour, including improvements to the existing port area and its retail village.

These works are expected to include the construction of a new beach club.

“The project is designed as a multi-user facility, supporting operational flexibility and positioning Grand Bahama to capture greater cruise activity, higher passenger volumes, and wider economic spillover into transportation, hospitality, culture and small business,” Davis said.

Plans for the Billy Cay development include new cruise berths, a welcome plaza, retail outlets, food and beverage venues, entertainment areas, transport staging zones and supporting infrastructure.

Once completed, the port is expected to host vessels from multiple cruise brands.

Alongside its Grand Bahama plans, MSC Cruises has also confirmed further investment in Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its private island destination in The Bahamas. The cruise line announced that the island’s pier will be extended to allow two ships to dock simultaneously, with completion scheduled for late 2027.

Ocean Cay will also see the introduction of new guest facilities, including additional dining venues and bars, a dedicated adults-only beach, an expanded family lagoon, and an increased number of cabanas.

Four new dining options are planned, bringing the total number of food venues on the island to seven. Family-focused upgrades will include a playground, splashpad, ropes course, and organised activities, while a new adults-only beach area will offer a quieter daytime retreat.

The company also confirmed the development of a new marine conservation experience linked to the MSC Foundation, designed to offer hands-on educational activities focused on coral restoration and ocean ecosystems.

In addition, work is continuing on a second, as-yet-unnamed island adjacent to Ocean Cay, currently known internally as Little Cay, which is expected to follow a similar nature-focused concept.