🇧🇸 Ocean Cay, Bahamas — Cruise Port Guide
A reclaimed sand islet turned marine reserve — a former industrial site transformed into coral-fringed beaches with a conservation story behind every dune.
Updated September 2026
Quick facts
Getting ashore
When to visit Ocean Cay
Best December-April for calm, dry weather; hurricane season runs June-November.
Getting back to the ship on time
Keep track of time if you wander to the far side of the island, since it's about a 20-minute walk back and the free tram stops running before all-aboard.
All-aboard is ship's time — check it in the daily programme, and set your watch to it.
Things to do in Ocean Cay
Marine reserve snorkeling
Snorkel around a protected reef and coral nursery.
Lighthouse Beach relaxing
White sand beach anchored by the island's lighthouse.
Coral restoration exhibit
Learn how damaged reef is being regrown nearby.
Paddleboarding
Paddle the calm, clear water around the marina.
Sunset Beach
A quieter stretch of sand on the island's west side.
Island bike ride
Cycle a loop trail around the small island.
Popular excursions
Lighthouse Bay Beach Day
Powder-soft sand and Bimini-blue shallows just steps from the ship.
Evening Lighthouse Light Show
The island's lighthouse erupts in a synchronized music-and-light finale.
What to eat
- Grilled seafood platters
- Bahamian conch salad
- BBQ favorites
- Tropical fruit bar
- Island cocktails
Weather by month
Best time to visit: Dec–Apr (dry season)
| Month | High | Low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 78° | 64° | 1.9" |
| Feb | 78° | 64° | 1.7" |
| Mar | 80° | 66° | 1.9" |
| Apr | 83° | 69° | 2.5" |
| May | 86° | 73° | 4.8" |
| Jun | 88° | 76° | 7.8" |
| Jul | 90° | 77° | 5.8" |
| Aug | 90° | 78° | 6.3" |
| Sep | 89° | 77° | 6.9" |
| Oct | 86° | 74° | 6.2" |
| Nov | 82° | 70° | 2.8" |
| Dec | 79° | 66° | 2" |
Local phrases
A little history
Ocean Cay was once a working sand-mining islet; the cruise line transformed it into a marine reserve starting in 2017.
A coral restoration nursery on the island helps regrow reef damaged elsewhere in the Bahamas.
A working lighthouse anchors the island's design, giving it a nautical, working-port aesthetic rather than a typical resort look.
The island is designated a Marine Protected Area, with rules in place to safeguard its surrounding reef.