Sandy Cay Just Broke Ground: MSC’s New Private Island Is Officially Underway

MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys are one step closer to giving passengers an exclusive private island experience at the company’s newest destination.

Today the cruise line dropped a social media post confirming that construction at Sandy Cay is officially underway following a groundbreaking ceremony that took place.

Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division) and Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Edward Davis stood together for the groundbreaking ceremony.

So what exactly is Sandy Cay?

If you’ve been to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, you’ve probably noticed the construction happening just across the water for a while now. We at Cruise Fever noticed it in our last visit to Ocean Cay as you can see in this photo below.

For months it was called “Little Cay” internally. But in April, MSC finally gave it a real name and a debut year: Sandy Cay, opening in 2028.

Here’s the quick rundown of what we know so far:

• It’s located right next to Ocean Cay, sharing those same crystal clear turquoise waters that cruisers always rave about.
• Sandy Cay will be a more secluded, intimate, and dare I say “posh” experience compared to Ocean Cay.
• There will be a strong focus on wellness and relaxation, elevated dining, and private retreats.
• The vibe is quieter and more nature-focused. MSC keeps using words like “serenity,” “elemental escape,” and “connecting guests to the natural rhythms of the ocean.”

So, it looks like Sandy Cay is shaping up to be the calmer, more exclusive sibling next door.

Who gets to go?

According to MSC, Sandy Cay will be available to guests sailing on both MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys.  However, while Explora passengers will almost certainly have access, it’s more likely that only higher-tier cabins (like Yacht Club) on MSC Cruises ships will get to visit the island.

They haven’t spelled out exactly how access will work just yet. Will it be an included option, a paid excursion, or reserved mainly for Yacht Club and Explora guests? Those details still haven’t been released.

But since the new island offers a more exclusive experience, it makes sense that not everyone will be able to hop on over to Ocean Cay’s neighbor.

What’s happening at Ocean Cay at the same time?

While they’re building Sandy Cay, MSC is also pouring money into upgrading the original island. New dining venues, refreshed beach concepts (including a dedicated adults-only area), more relaxation spots, and more marine conservation experiences are all planned.

The pier is also being extended so two ships can dock at the same time by late 2027.

Basically, MSC is turning that little corner of the Bahamas into a two-island destination with something for everyone.

Construction has been visible for a while, but today’s groundbreaking with the Prime Minister makes it official. Sandy Cay is coming in 2028.

I’ll be watching for more renders, updates, and (hopefully) the first real photos from the construction site.