A 3-Night MSC Cruise to the Bahamas: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve
I recently embarked on a 3-night MSC cruise to the Bahamas, which turned out to be an unforgettable journey full of adventure and relaxation. Our trip took us to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, and to MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, offering a perfect mix of cultural exploration and tropical escape.
Our cruise kicked off at Port Canaveral, but not without a slight delay. Due to rough seas, we stayed docked for the first night. While it was a bit disappointing not to set sail immediately, the crew kept us informed and ensured we were safe and comfortable during the wait.
Day 2: On Our Way to Nassau
Early the next day, we finally set sail toward the Bahamas. We awoke to moderate seas. It was an adventure eating breakfast while slowly rocking back and forth. But the anticipation was building as we neared our first stop: Nassau.
Upon arriving in Nassau, we headed out to explore this vibrant Bahamian city. But not before having to visit Starbucks to link to their free WIFI – we needed the GPS! We visited the historic Fincastle which offers amazing views of the city and the surrounding area and climbed the famous Queen Anne’s Staircase. This historic landmark, which has been under renovation, is sure to be even more stunning now. Then, we made our way to one of Nassau’s most beloved attractions—the Rum Cake Factory. We couldn’t leave without tasting the delicious rum cakes, and they did not disappoint! And of course, we made a few purchases! You can even create a six pack with mini rum cakes!
After our sightseeing adventures, we stopped by The Bearded Clam, a sports bar near the port, for a bite to eat. I highly recommend the cheeseburger and the conch fritters—both were absolutely delicious and the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Day 3: Ocean Cay Marine Reserve - Sun, Sand, and a Light Show
On the third day of our cruise, we docked at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, MSC’s stunning private island. We had hoped to snorkel, but unfortunately, the conditions weren’t ideal for that activity. Instead, we spent the day leisurely walking around, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the beauty of the island.
In the evening, we were treated to a stunning light show from the island’s lighthouse. It was an incredible sight, and the perfect way to end a day in paradise.
MSC Pros and Cons
Our waiter and housekeeper were both exceptional, and the entire crew on the MSC Seashore went above and beyond to make our experience enjoyable. We had no complaints about the service—it was top-notch. When it comes to dining, though, the options are a bit limited unless you opt for specialty restaurants. Your choices primarily consist of the main dining room or the buffet, both of which were fine, though nothing particularly memorable. The standout meal was on the last night, which was Italian Night—that one was definitely a highlight. We also dined at the Mexican Specialty Restaurant, which was really good. And let’s not forget the gelato—it was outstanding and definitely worth the extra cost!
As for the entertainment, the shows were solid. While they weren’t large-scale productions, they were definitely enjoyable and a great way to spend our evenings. We especially loved the comedian, who had us laughing the whole time.
