MSC Group has unveiled Catalina Sugar Beach, the new name and redesigned concept for its beach destination on Catalina Island, off the coast of La Romana in the Dominican Republic.
The MSC-exclusive destination is scheduled to open in November 2026. It will serve passengers of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, as well as guests staying at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.
The project is being developed and operated through a partnership between CTL Maritime (corporate subsidiary and port/destination development arm of the MSC Group) and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas (owned by the Central Romana Corporation, with majority control by the Fanjul family).
The upgraded destination will combine the island's existing natural environment with additional guest facilities, including private cabanas, watersports activities, dining venues, bars and improved changing, shower and restroom facilities. Catalina Island remains a protected natural monument in the Dominican Republic, and the development is intended to retain that character while expanding the visitor experience.
Catalina Sugar Beach will also serve as a base for a range of shore experiences. These will include snorkeling and catamaran excursions, boat trips to Saona Island and visits to the Cave of Wonders and Altos de Chavón. A nature trail through the island will provide information about its flora and surrounding landscape.
The opening is closely connected with MSC Cruises' expansion of La Romana as a homeport. Beginning in November, the company will operate weekly Southern Caribbean cruises from the Dominican port, with MSC Cruises' MSC Opera scheduled to call at Catalina Sugar Beach on every itinerary. Explora Journeys will also include the destination on selected Caribbean voyages.
The new beach destination forms part of MSC Group's broader development of its presence in the Dominican Republic. By linking the La Romana homeport with a dedicated island experience, the group is integrating port operations, cruise itineraries and shoreside facilities into a single Caribbean programme.
Catalina Sugar Beach is therefore expected to become a regular component of MSC Cruises' Southern Caribbean deployment from late 2026, while providing Explora Journeys and Casa de Campo guests with access to the same upgraded island facilities.