This Dominican Republic Island Is Being Reimagined as a New Beach Hub, With Cabanas, Reef Access, and a Palapa Bar

The boat ride out of La Romana has always ended the same way: a stretch of white sand, shallow turquoise water, and a protected coastline that feels removed from the mainland. Now, that experience is about to change in a very big way.

A new partnership between CTL Maritime, part of the MSC Group, and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas (a subsidiary company of the Central Romana Corporation) is set to reimagine Catalina Island, the small offshore island just off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, with plans to turn it into one of the region’s newest beach destinations.

A Major Joint Venture Off La Romana

The two companies have formed a long-term 50/50 joint venture to operate and redevelop Catalina Island, combining cruise infrastructure with one of the Dominican Republic’s most established resort brands.

Casa de Campo, which operates under Central Romana Corporation, has managed and developed Catalina Island for more than 25 years. The new agreement brings in MSC’s cruise-focused expertise, signaling a clear push to expand the island’s role in Caribbean itineraries.

The plan is straightforward: upgrade the island’s infrastructure and visitor facilities while maintaining its position as a protected natural area.

What’s Changing On Catalina Island

The redevelopment will focus heavily on guest-facing upgrades, with a clear emphasis on comfort, access, and time spent directly on the beach.

At the center of the project is a new open-air beach pavilion that will serve as the island’s main dining hub, offering a mix of international dishes and Dominican specialties. Nearby, shaded seating areas will provide full-service al fresco dining with direct views of the water.

A new palapa-style bar is also part of the plan, designed as a casual gathering spot for drinks throughout the day.

Beyond food and beverage, the island will see the addition of a dedicated water sports center, giving guests direct access to the surrounding reef system and clear coastal waters. Equipment rentals and guided activities are expected to be part of that offering.

For travelers looking for a more private beach setup, the island will introduce a collection of cabanas and daybeds available for rent, positioned along the shoreline.

Basic infrastructure is also getting a full overhaul, with upgraded changing areas, showers, and restroom facilities designed to support a larger number of daily visitors.

A Blend of Cruise and Resort Guests

Catalina Island will continue to serve cruise passengers, but with a broader mix of visitors than before.

The destination is expected to welcome guests from MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, along with other cruise lines. At the same time, Casa de Campo will bring in its own resort guests, integrating the island more directly into the resort’s overall experience.

That dual approach — cruise and land-based — positions Catalina Island differently from many private cruise destinations in the Caribbean, which are typically limited to a single brand.

Tied to a New Cruise Strategy in La Romana

The timing of the project lines up with MSC Cruises’ expansion in the Dominican Republic.

Beginning this November, the cruise line will launch a year-round homeport operation out of La Romana, marking the first time MSC has based ships in the Southern Caribbean on a continuous schedule.

The new program will include weekly departures, with options for seven-night itineraries or extended 14-night sailings combining back-to-back cruises.

Catalina Island is expected to play a central role in those itineraries, offering a controlled, upgraded beach stop close to the port.

Balancing Development With Protection

Despite the planned upgrades, Catalina Island remains designated as a Natural Monument under Dominican law, which places strict limits on development.

According to the companies, all construction and improvements will follow environmental regulations designed to minimize impact on the island’s ecosystems, including its coral reefs and surrounding marine areas.

That framework will guide how infrastructure is added, from building materials to the placement of new facilities.

A New Model for Dominican Cruise Tourism

The project reflects a broader shift in how cruise destinations are being developed across the Caribbean, with more emphasis on curated, higher-end shore experiences.

In the Dominican Republic, Catalina Island has long been known for its clear water, reef systems, and relatively undeveloped shoreline. The new joint venture signals a move to formalize that experience, adding structure and amenities while keeping the core appeal intact.

Once complete, the island is expected to function as a hybrid destination—part cruise stop, part resort extension, and part protected natural site—anchored just minutes off one of the country’s most established tourism hubs.

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