MSC Group has revealed the name of its enhanced Catalina Island destination off the coast of La Romana, Dominican Republic: Catalina Sugar Beach. Set to open in November 2026, the beach destination is being developed through a partnership between MSC Group, CTL Maritime and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.
MSC Cruises: New Homeport, New Beach
The site will serve cruise passengers sailing with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, along with guests staying at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas. MSC Cruises will begin weekly sailings from its new La Romana homeport in November, with the MSC Opera calling at Catalina Sugar Beach on every itinerary. The move marks the first time the line has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean. The MSC Opera will run 7-night sailings weekly, with an option to combine two consecutive voyages into a 14-night “butterfly” cruise.
Catalina Island holds status as a protected natural monument in the Dominican Republic, and the redevelopment is built around that setting. Shore excursions include catamaran outings, snorkeling among the island’s marine life, boat trips to Isla Saona Island, and visits to the Cave of Wonders and Altos de Chavón.
Dining options center on an open-air beach pavilion buffet serving international dishes and local specialties, paired with a shaded, al-fresco dining area with sea views. Two bars will operate on-site, including a tropical, open-air palapa bar doubling as a shaded social gathering spot. A water sports center will offer rental equipment for guests exploring the surrounding waters, and cabanas and daybeds will be available for rent across the island.
Facility upgrades include new changing, shower and restroom services throughout the island. A walking path will lead guests through the island’s natural landscape to an elevated viewpoint, with signage identifying tree species along the way and clearings offering views over the beach and coastline.
Catalina Sugar Beach adds a fixed shore destination to MSC’s Caribbean itineraries and gives Casa de Campo Resort & Villas guests a beach outing without leaving the immediate area, ahead of the November 2026 opening.
For more information, visit msccruisesusa.com.
