MSC to Launch Catalina Sugar Beach Private Destination in November 2026

MSC Cruises has revealed the name and details about its new private destination in the Caribbean.

Situated on Catalina Island, off the coast of La Romana, Dominican Republic, the new destination will be called Catalina Sugar Beach.

It is set to open in November 2026, after it receives the upgrades announced in April. MSC will operate it in partnership with CTL Maritime and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.

Cruise ship guests, including those sailings with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, will be able to visit, as well as guests staying at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.

Highlights include:

• Dining – An open-air beach pavilion buffet will be the central dining hub of the island, offering international dishes and local specialties. An adjacent shaded dining area will offer al-fresco table seating with panoramic sea views.
• Bars – Two bars will be on offer including a tropical open-air palapa bar that will welcome guests with refreshments.
• Water sports center – The central point for guests wishing to explore the surrounding waters, with equipment available to rent.
• Cabanas – The island will be equipped with daybeds and cabanas available for rent.
• Upgraded facilities – Functional facilities across the island will be upgraded, with changing rooms, showers and toilets.
• Picturesque pathway – A winding path through the island leading to a viewpoint, with educational signage and scenic viewpoints along the route.

Shore excursions will offer the opportunity for additional exploration, including a catamaran exploration of the surrounding waters, snorkeling, boat trips to Isla Saona Island or visits to the nearby Cave of Wonders and Altos de Chavón.

MSC will begin sailing from La Romana with stops at Catalina Sugar Beach in November, marking the first time the cruise line has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean.

The MSC Opera will operate weekly departures with seven-night sailings or the option for guests to extend their cruise for a back-to-back 14-night "butterfly" cruise.

Explora Journeys calls to Catalina Sugar Beach on select Caribbean journeys.