Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is designed as a laid-back beach day, not a high-energy private island packed with attractions. That slower pace is exactly why cabanas appeal to so many cruisers. The idea of guaranteed shade, seating, and a place to settle in for the day sounds perfect.
But Ocean Cay cabanas are often misunderstood.
They are not luxury resort cabanas, and they are not private beach escapes. They work best as comfort upgrades, not premium experiences. Whether one is worth the price depends entirely on how you plan to use it.
How Many Cabanas Are on Ocean Cay (and Where They’re Located)
Ocean Cay has 36 cabanas total outside of the Yacht Club area, spread across three main beach areas:
- Bimini Beach: 11 cabanas, numbered 1–11
- North Beach: 8 cabanas, numbered 12–19
- South Beach: 18 cabanas, numbered 20–37
South Beach has the largest concentration, while North Beach is often considered more central to food, bars, and restrooms. Some repeat cruisers recommend cabanas in the low 30s because they tend to strike a reasonable balance between beach access and nearby amenities.
Cabanas are not in private zones. They are placed directly on public beaches, separated only by a small rope. This means there will be other people near each cabana.
Pricing and Booking Reality
Reported pricing when booked in advance:
- Standard Cabana: $249
- Deluxe Cabana: $349
Prices are typically higher if booked onboard or on the island.
One useful tip: cabanas sometimes go on sale shortly before sailing. MSC occasionally discounts shore excursions, including cabanas, in the weeks leading up to departure. If you are interested but flexible, it can be worth checking the MSC for Me app periodically instead of locking in immediately.
Availability varies by sailing, ship, and season. Some cruises report plenty of open cabanas, while others see them booked in advance. If having a cabana is important to your day, booking early removes the guesswork.
Capacity: The “Max 6 Guests” Rule
Officially, Ocean Cay cabanas are listed for a maximum of six guests.
In practice, many guests report that this rule is loosely enforced. Numerous reviews mention groups of seven, eight, or even more sharing a cabana without any issues. The general consensus is that the limit reflects seating capacity, not active headcounts. With the island offering a variety of activities, some use the cabana for a larger group as a home base, even though the group is larger than the stated limit of 6.
That said, the official rule is still six guests, and MSC can enforce it if they choose. Guests should assume the limit applies, even if enforcement appears light in real-world use.
What an Ocean Cay Cabana Includes
Based on consistent guest reports and video reviews, a standard cabana typically includes:
- A shaded cabana structure with three walls
- Wraparound couch seating that fits roughly 6–8 people
- Four beach loungers
- Two floating beach mats
- A cooler stocked with ice and bottled water
- Power outlets for charging phones or small devices
- Towels available at or near check-in
What is not included:
- Dedicated food service
- Guaranteed drink service
- Private beach or swimming area
- Fans or climate control
The value is in shade, space, and a home base, not luxury service.
Comfort, Condition, and Breeze
Cabanas are functional, but not pristine.
Some guests note cushions that show wear or staining, and airflow can be limited due to the three-sided design. There are typically no fans, and on calm days cabanas can feel warm or slightly stale.
Beach-facing cabanas can be quite windy depending on conditions, especially on the Northern side of the island. Lagoon-side cabanas are often calmer and more comfortable, especially for families with kids.
Several guests have reported that staff were helpful when conditions were an issue, including reassignment to a different cabana when availability allowed.
Privacy Expectations
This is one of the most important things to understand.
Ocean Cay cabanas are semi-private at best. They are located on public beaches, and other guests may set up loungers nearby. Some cabana users report having to clarify that certain loungers belong to the cabana if left unattended.
These are best viewed as reserved seating and shade, not secluded beach retreats.
Distance From the Water
Many cabanas are farther from the water than people expect. Instead of being right next to the ocean, expect a 50-100 step trip to the water. This can be noticeable if you plan to go back and forth frequently, especially with kids or mobility concerns.
Lagoon-side cabanas tend to offer calmer water and a slightly easier experience overall, even if the walk remains.
Service and Food Reality
Standard Ocean Cay cabanas do not include waiter service.
You will walk to nearby bars and food venues for drinks and meals. MSC drink packages do work on the island, but drinks are not delivered automatically to cabanas.
Some guests report bartenders occasionally helping refill coolers, especially if tipped, but this should be considered a bonus rather than an expectation.
When an Ocean Cay Cabana Is Worth It
Cabanas tend to make sense if:
- You plan to spend most of the day on the island
- Shade is a top priority
- You want a reliable meeting spot for a group or family
- You are traveling with kids or multiple generations
- You can split the cost across several people
Guests who used their cabana for six to seven hours often report feeling the value.
When a Cabana Is Probably Not Worth It
You may want to skip a cabana if:
- You plan to do excursions or explore most of the day
- You expect privacy or luxury-level service
- You want seating right at the water’s edge
- You are traveling solo or as a couple
Weather can also play a role. Late arrivals, wind, or shortened port time can significantly reduce the value of a cabana.
Bottom Line
Ocean Cay cabanas are not about luxury. They are about comfort, shade, and convenience.
For families, larger groups, and guests who want a relaxed beach day with a guaranteed place to sit, they can absolutely be worth the money. For more active cruisers or those expecting resort-style exclusivity, they often fall short.
If you go in with realistic expectations and plan to use it as a true home base, an Ocean Cay cabana can be a solid upgrade.