MSC Foundation Celebrates the Opening of Its Marine Conservation Centre at Ocean Cay

The MSC Foundation celebrated the official opening of its Marine Conservation Centre at Ocean Cay, marking a key milestone in its commitment to coral conservation and marine research in The Bahamas.

The MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Centre will be a base for biologists, scientists, students and island visitors alike, and will feature interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, a Bio Lab, and a land-based coral nursery.

The new research facility will also provide educational opportunities for visitors on the importance of the marine ecosystem and the critical need to protect coral reefs and will be the hub for the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Program.

Launched in 2019, the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Program has been driving efforts to help restore coral reefs in the 64-square-mile area around Ocean Cay with coral species that are more resilient to environmental stressors such as rising ocean temperatures.

The opening of the Marine Conservation Centre represents a significant investment in the future of The Bahamas, reinforcing the nation's leadership in marine conservation and sustainable tourism. This facility will not only advance scientific research in line with the parameters authorized by the Bahamas Department of Environmental Planning and Protection and in alignment with national priorities of the Ministry of Education, Technical, and Vocational Training, but also provide invaluable educational opportunities for Bahamian students, researchers, and conservationists. Through our partnerships with institutions such as the University of The Bahamas, The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute, and the Perry Institute for Marine Science, the MSC Foundation is helping to equip the next generation of Bahamian environmental stewards with the knowledge and tools needed to protect our oceans.

The Marine Conservation Centre was officially opened on April 10 by the Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee and Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, Pierfrancesco Vago, together with the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the Honourable Philip Davis, and renowned marine biologist Dr Sylvia Earle.

Key Cabinet ministers from The Bahamas, local Bimini Council members, other dignitaries and key stakeholders from The Bahamas were also in attendance, alongside MSC Foundation partners.