MSC Launches Ambitious Plan to Turn Catalina Island Into a Caribbean Showpiece

Cruise guests are always interested in new and unique destinations, particularly in popular sailing regions like the Caribbean. A partnership between CLT Maritime, part of the MSC Group, and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas is now planning to re-develop Catalina Island in the Dominican Republic for a new, luxury experience.

Catalina Island is located just off the coast of La Romana on the island nation’s southeastern coast, 60 miles east of Santo Domingo. La Romana is a lesser-known port destination, typically offered on longer Caribbean itineraries.

Several ships also homeport from La Romana, including MSC Opera beginning in November 2026. This is the first time MSC Cruises has offered year-round Southern Caribbean itineraries, giving travelers even more diverse itineraries to explore.

The 50/50 collaboration to further develop Catalina Island is planned to create a “premier leisure destination” that cruise guests will enjoy.

Already known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning natural beauty, Catalina Island could easily become an amazing beach destination for all visitors. The island is already designated as a Natural Monument and all upcoming development work will be done in compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability in mind.

Visitors will include not only guests on MSC Cruises, but also the company’s luxury division, Explora Journeys. Other cruise lines will also be able to visit the destination.

The Dominican Republic is rapidly growing into a top cruise destination, with more than 3.7 million tourists arriving so far in 2026. Of those, 1.1 million were cruise passengers.

What Updates Are Planned?

Exact details of the new development have not been released, but Catalina Island will feature new dining venues, including an open-air beach pavilion for buffet meals, with both international and local dishes on the menu.

Ample seating will be located nearby in a shaded, al-fresco area with panoramic sea views. Another shaded, thatched-roof pavilion will provide tropical libations for the ultimate island vibes.

Guests who want to enjoy water sports during their visit will be able to rent equipment from a water sports center. The exact types of equipment have not been specified, but are likely to include snorkeling gear and perhaps jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, or other options.

For the ultimate in luxury, guests will be able to rent daybeds and cabanas with upgraded amenities. These types of features are exceedingly popular in other destinations, including on private islands.

The practical needs of guests visiting Catalina Island are not being overlooked. Infrastructure updates to changing areas, showers, and restrooms are part of the overall development plan.

Read Also: MSC’s Newest Ships and What’s On Order

No date has yet been confirmed for when the updates will be complete and guests will be able to enjoy the new amenities and features of Catalina Island.

In the meantime, along with ships from MSC Cruises, vessels from TUI Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Marella Cruises, Costa Cruises, and more have visits planned for Catalina Island in 2026.

More Luxury Options for MSC Cruises Guests

The news to re-development Catalina Island comes just days after MSC Cruises announced Sandy Cay in the Bahamas. Located near MSC Ocean Cay, the new island destination is focused on serenity and luxury for the ultimate beach experience.

Like Catalina Island, Sandy Cay will also be visited not just by MSC Cruises, but also by Explora Journeys sailings. As a true private island, however, Sandy Cay will not be open to other cruise lines.

Both Sandy Cay and Catalina Island appear not to be individual, standalone destinations, but may instead be options for guests to visit when they go to MSC Ocean Cay and La Romana, respectively.

Opening dates and itinerary options for both destinations will be announced in the months to come.