There’s a new name on the cruise map for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys in the Caribbean. Catalina Sugar Beach is the newest private island destination off the coast of La Romana, Dominican Republic.
Set to open in November, 2026, the beach has been upgraded in a partnership with CTL Maritime and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas for day visits by cruise ship guests.
MSC is beginning weekly sailings from its new La Romana homeport in November, with MSC Opera calling at the new Sugar Beach destination on every Caribbean itinerary.
The destination showcases the island’s natural character and beauty as a protected natural monument in the Dominican Republic, MSC says. The island boasts while-sand beaches along with shore excursions that explore nature. Catamaran tours around the island, norrkelling and boat trips to Isla Saona Island or visits to the nearby Cave of Wonders and Altos de Chavón are on menu. Guests can opt to elevate their experience with one of the new cabanas on offer.
Options at Sugar Beach include guest cabanas and buffet
Guest highlights include:
Dining – A signature open-air beach pavilion buffet is the central dining hub of the island, offering international dishes and local specialties. An adjacent shaded dining area offers comfortable al-fresco table seating with panoramic sea views.
Libations–Two bars include a tropical open-air palapa bar that will act as a shaded social pavilion with ocean views.
Water Sports Center – A range of equipment is for rent for guests wishing to explore the surrounding clear waters.
Cabanas – The island will be equipped with comfortable daybeds and cabanas available for rent.
Upgraded Facilities – Upgraded amenities include stylish changing rooms, showers and WC services.
A picturesque pathway winds through the island’s lush natural landscape to a dramatic viewpoint, with educational signage along the route inviting guests to discover and learn more about the island’s diverse tree species. Along the pathway, elevated clearings within the vegetation will offer scenic views overlooking the beach and surrounding island landscape.
MSC Cruises will begin sailing from La Romana with stops at Catalina Sugar Beach in November, marking the first time the cruise line has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean. MSC Opera will operate weekly departures with seven-night sailings or the option for guests to extend their cruise for a back-to-back 14-night ‘cruise.
Explora Journeys also calls to Catalina Sugar Beach on select Caribbean sailings.
Story by Wallace Immen, The Cruisington Times
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