MSC Cruises has hired Storyland Studios, an attractions and experiences design agency made up of Disney Imagineering, Pixar, Universal, and LEGOLAND alumni, for a new project at its Ocean Cay private destination in The Bahamas.
The project is to design a new 'pavilion' at Ocean Cay's Marine Conservation Center.
Ocean Cay's Marine Conservation Center opened in April this year, and it serves a base for biologists, scientists, students and island visitors.
Storyland will design a pavilion that aims to turn complex science into accessible, guest-friendly experiences and to inspire support for conservation. The idea is to create a hub for the Foundation’s mission, engaging visitors, donors and partners.
"At the vital intersection of Cause and Commerce, we are crafting more than a building – we are giving form to a promise," Storyland senior creative director Johnny Davis said.
"Every path, every vista, every moment is designed to weave a compelling narrative that moves guests from passive observers to active stewards of our oceans.
"This is where inspiration meets action, creating a living destination that embodies conservation and empowers a global community of ocean guardians.”
Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Foundation chair, meanwhile, commented: "We warmly acknowledge Storyland Studios’ generosity in designing this signature pavilion for us.
"Their creativity and dedication will enhance the Marine Conservation Center’s role as an educational hub, inviting tens of thousands of Ocean Cay visitors each year to discover, learn, and engage with corals, while deepening their awareness of the urgency of coral conservation worldwide.”
Part of the project will focus on the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Program - a collaboration between MSC, the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University - focused on identifying hardy species of coral for Ocean Cay.
It is a multi-year restoration of Ocean Cay’s marine ecosystem, including nurseries that are growing high-thermal resilience in some genetic populations of corals.
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Where will the new MSC Foundation pavilion be located?
MSC Foundation’s new pavilion will be located at the Marine Conservation Center on Ocean Cay in The Bahamas.
What facilities does the Marine Conservation Center include?
MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Center includes interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, a Bio Lab, and a land-based coral nursery.
What is the Super Coral Reefs Program aiming to achieve?
MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Program focuses on heat-resilient corals, targeting up to 6,000 annual outplants and reporting 100% nursery survival during 2023’s marine heatwave.
