Holland America’s Oosterdam Returns with Major Upgrades & MSC Cruises Plans New Bahamas Island

🚢 Holland America Line’s Oosterdam Returns with Extensive Upgrades

After a two-week dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas, the Oosterdam has re-entered service with a suite of enhancements aimed at elevating the guest experience.

Key Enhancements:

• Casino Expansion: The former Gallery Bar has been integrated into the casino, adding 34 new slot machines and a digital table game, providing guests with more gaming options in a spacious environment.

• Effy Jewelry Lounge: A new Effy Lounge and retail shop has been introduced, replacing the previous movie theater. This boutique offers a luxurious shopping experience reminiscent of Effy’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City.

• Public Spaces Revitalization: Over 215,000 square feet of new carpet have been installed across various areas, including the Atrium, Rolling Stone Lounge, and Greenhouse Spa & Salon. The Rolling Stone Lounge now features a revamped bar, new furnishings, LED lighting, and updated flooring.

• Greenhouse Spa & Salon Upgrades: The spa now boasts a co-ed sauna, a couple’s massage therapy room, and a rebuilt Thermal Suite with a Laconium thermal room, steam room, and experiential rain shower. The salon has been expanded with new manicure stations and pedicure chairs.

• Crow’s Nest Transformation: This space has been redesigned to include an Arts Studio for crafts classes, a dedicated Games Room, and a Puzzle Area, all furnished with new furniture and updated signage.

• Neptune Lounge Enhancements: Suite guests can now enjoy updated carpet, drapes, light fixtures, and new dining and lounge furniture in the exclusive Neptune Lounge.

Following these upgrades, the Oosterdam embarked on a transatlantic crossing from Fort Lauderdale on April 19, 2025, and will spend the summer season cruising the Mediterranean.

🏝️ MSC Cruises to Develop a Second Private Island in the Bahamas

MSC Cruises has announced plans to develop a new private island in the Bahamas, tentatively named “Little Cay,” located near its existing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

Project Highlights:

• Size and Location: Little Cay will be approximately one-third the size of Ocean Cay and is being developed on a natural sandbank adjacent to the existing island.

• Luxury and Nature Integration: The new island aims to offer an exclusive luxury experience that connects guests to nature, featuring pristine beaches, upscale facilities, and water features.

• Sustainable Development: MSC is working closely with Bahamian authorities to ensure the project aligns with sustainable and environmentally mindful practices.

This development reflects MSC Cruises’ commitment to enhancing guest experiences through exclusive destinations while emphasizing environmental sustainability.