MSC Foundation celebrates the Opening of its Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay

Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the Honourable Philip Davis, marine biologist Dr Sylvia Earle, and MSC Foundation representatives were among those to officially inaugurate the facility

Focus Area: Marine Conservation

The MSC Foundation yesterday celebrated the official opening of its Marine Conservation Center 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 Center will serve as 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 offer educational opportunities for visitors on the importance of the marine ecosystem and the urgent need to protect coral reefs. It will also serve as the hub for the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Programme.

The opening of the Marine Conservation Center represents a significant investment in the future of The Bahamas, reinforcing the nation's leadership in marine conservation and responsible tourism. This facility will not only advance scientific research in line with the parameters authorised 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 Center was officially opened this morning by the Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee and Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, Pierfrancesco Vago, alongside Diego Aponte, MSC Foundation Board Member and MSC Group President; Rick Sasso, MSC Foundation Ambassador and Chairman MSC Cruises (USA); and MSC Foundation Executive Director Daniela Picco, together with the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the Honourable Philip Davis, the Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, and renowned marine biologist Dr Sylvia Earle. 

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

Pierfrancesco Vago, Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee, said:

“The opening of our Marine Conservation Center marks a defining moment in our multigenerational commitment to ocean conservation. It brings to life the MSC Foundation’s concrete plans for restoring coral reefs, advancing science, and creating training opportunities for Bahamian and international students. With the continued support of the Government of The Bahamas and local authorities, our work here is contributing to the circular economy through ecosystem preservation, regeneration and knowledge sharing.”

Dr Sylvia Earle, the renowned marine biologist and founder of Mission Blue, who participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony nearly two years after the NGO designated Ocean Cay as a “Hope Spot” — a site important to ocean health — said: “Bravo to MSC and the MSC Foundation for creating the Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay, a treasured Mission Blue Hope Spot. The Center is a place to discover why the ocean matters to everyone, everywhere, and to inspire actions that can be taken to restore and care for the vast blue realm that makes possible the existence of life — humankind very much included.”

The new facility features a fully equipped Bio Lab and The Aquaria, a dedicated land-based coral nursery housing 22 coral tanks to support restoration efforts. It also includes a 50-seat lecture hall, providing a space for educational programmes and scientific collaboration.

The centre’s Welcome Hub and Discovery Pavilion will also offer immersive experiences for visitors, including guided tours, interactive exhibits and hands-on coral restoration activities, fostering a deeper connection to marine conservation.

Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, stated: “This facility will connect marine scientists, educators and the public, annually supporting up to 30 marine science students from four universities. By strengthening partnerships with Bahamian and international experts, engaging the wider community, and creating a bridge to hundreds of thousands of island visitors, we have laid the foundations for lasting ocean stewardship and meaningful conservation efforts.”