MSC Cruises is doubling down on the Bahamas with plans for its first dedicated beach club. The cruise line confirmed a deal with the Bahamas government for part of the site of the iconic Grand Lucayan Resort in Grand Bahama.
MSC aims to develop the 20-acre site which is currently The Reef Village area. Neither the cruise line nor local officials have disclosed what amenities the MSC Beach Club will feature. It will be available to MSC and Explora Journeys guests.
“This agreement represents a defining moment for Grand Bahama and the future of our island,” said Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis. The redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort has long been a national priority, and this step forward speaks to our commitment to restoring Grand Bahama as a leading tourism destination.
Two cruise beach club facilities being developed at the Grand Lucayan Resort
It won’t be the only beach club destination for cruisers at the site. Alongside MSC Beach Club, Ancient Waters Cruise Resort will be locally operated and accessible to various other cruise lines’ passengers.
The 56-acre beachfront Grand Lucayan Resort and 160-acre Reef Golf Course is now owned by Concord Wilshire Capital, which is overseeing a huge resort redevelopment.
“Together, the MSC Beach Club and the Ancient Waters Cruise Resort are projected to welcome more than one million guests annually,” Concord Wilshire President Nate Sirang said. “Combined with the activation of the Mega Marina and Casino Resort, this development will generate substantial economic activity.”
MSC’s new beach club plans are in addition to its already announced $450 million investment to upgrade the Freeport, Grand Bahama cruise port facility. The goal is to expand ship capacity and improve guest services.
Additionally, further upgrades are coming to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve which will add more recreational activities, restaurants, bars and cabanas, as well as an exclusive adult-only retreat area.
