THE MSC Meraviglia will inaugurate MSC Cruises’ private Bahamian island destination when it makes its first call, slated for November 9. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve will be offered on all four MSC ships sailing out of Miami. Ross Volk, md of MSC Cruises South Africa, says: “We have made the ship an integral part of the experience, as we have built a pier so that guests can go easily back and forth between the ship throughout the day, making full use of both the shore and on-board facilities.” The site has six beaches, a lagoon and a nearby Bahamian village. There are beaches dedicated to families and Yacht Club guests, as well as an adjacent smaller island that can be privately rented. Activities include a range of water sports, snorkelling and scuba diving. Guests who are nature enthusiasts can learn through lectures about the environment and the importance of protecting coral reefs. The island is surrounded by 166 sq km of protected waters, and a coral nursery is being established to encourage and sustain the growth of new coral. Other attractions include seaside restaurants and tiki bars, and guests can get massages and beauty treatments in sea-view cabanas from the staff of Aurea Spa. There is a specially designed retail concept offering guests souvenirs and vacation essentials. A self-service food venue will be offered at a nominal cost in addition to food carts at each of the beaches, in an effort to minimise the environmental impact with a minimum of food preparation and rubbish. Beverage services will also have a small add-on cost to the beverage packages offered on board. Other charges include WiFi and cabana and water-sports equipment rentals. Walking from the ship to the furthest point of the island will take about 17 minutes, or guests can use the electric carts available.
