Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises' private island, and it takes a notably different approach from Royal Caribbean's CocoCay. Instead of waterparks and zip lines, it's going for a more natural, eco-conscious vibe — a marine reserve with coral restoration, a lighthouse, and seven beaches.

The island is less developed and more peaceful than CocoCay, which is either a pro or a con depending on what you want. Food and drinks are included (a significant advantage over CocoCay's upcharge model), and the beaches are gorgeous. The evening experience, when the ship stays late, includes a fire pit show and stargazing.

The tea: Ocean Cay is the most "chill" of the private islands, and the marine reserve angle isn't pure marketing — there's actual conservation work happening. It's a better value than CocoCay because fewer things cost extra. MSC's growing US presence makes this a port worth knowing about.