Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Review: Free Beach Day Tips
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What Is Ocean Cay Marine Reserve?
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, designed as a tranquil beach escape with a focus on nature and sustainability. I love to cruise the Caribbean and the Bahamas. I love the beach! When looking for a cruise in the Caribbean, I love finding great beaches that require me to spend little or no money. My goal is to have a relaxing day on the beach. Ocean Cay makes that dream a reality!
🌴Check out my reviews of other Private Islands/Resorts
Virgin Voyages Bimini Beach Club
How to Get the Best MSC Cruise Deal
I recently took an MSC cruise to Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. I booked this 4-day cruise for $250 a person. Click here to see how I got this deal! I was then able to use points and miles to fly free to Ft Lauderdale. Top that off with a free room at Hyatt, and you have a deal for a quick vacation.
Free Things to Do on Ocean Cay
Since Ocean Cay is an MSC private island, you only need to take your room card when you exit the ship. They will scan it when you get back on. Everyone needs their room card to get off the ship. I see a lot of confusion about this when getting off the ship, so be prepared!
Once on Ocean Cay, you can take a tram or walk to different areas. The tram lines up to the left of this lighthouse. The tram is free to ride! There are a few shops in this area, including a coffee shop!
MSC Divina from Ocean Cay
One of the things I love most about Ocean Cay is that you can spend a day here without spending any money. Chairs and loungers are free. We ended up renting the umbrella. When you pop that umbrella up, someone will come over to charge it to your room. It was around $30 for the umbrella for the day. Our room had a discount offer the night before, so if you get that, bring it with you. It saved us $10.
I love all things free, and Ocean Cay has lots of those! Your drink package and Wi-Fi package work on Ocean Cay. Also, lots of free food options. You can visit the buffet area. They have ribs, burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. They also have desserts such as cookies, brownies, and rum cake. We ended up on the other side of the beach this time, so I just walked up to one of the food trucks (pictured above) and ordered a burger and fries.
🏖️Don’t miss my guide with the Best Cruise Ports for a free beach day -> Best Cruise Ports in the Caribbean
My recommendations for Ocean Cay:
All the pictures are clickable links!
If you bring nothing else bring a float. These are cheaper than the ones they rent. They are quick to inflate and deflate. I take these on all my Caribbean cruises.
Water pouch for Cell phone! These are way more expensive there and on the ship!
I love these water shoes when I travel to the Caribbean. I can wear them in and out of the water.
Final Thoughts
If you're sailing with MSC, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is more than just a beach stop — it's a peaceful escape that feels like a reward for savvy cruising. With free beach access, drink package perks, and no pressure to spend extra, it’s one of the few cruise ports where you can truly relax without reaching for your wallet.
Whether you're chasing points, cruising on a casino offer, or just looking for a low-cost family getaway, Ocean Cay delivers a perfect beach day with zero stress. Pack your sunscreen, grab a float, and enjoy the kind of island day that makes cruising feel magical.
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