Today, September 23, 2026, Royal Caribbean Group and Sandals Resorts announced a new strategic partnership that will see Royal Caribbean Group acquire a 50% stake in the all-inclusive resort brand. According to the companies, the partnership is designed to create new opportunities for growth while expanding the vacation experiences offered by both brands.
Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty and Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman Adam Stewart marked the signing of the agreement at Royal Caribbean Group’s new headquarters in Miami.
The partnership brings together two companies with deep roots in the Caribbean and a shared connection to the region and its communities. Together, Royal Caribbean Group and Sandals Resorts say the venture will create an expanded collection of cruise, private destination, and all-inclusive resort experiences.
For Royal Caribbean Group, the agreement also marks an expansion into a new category of vacation experiences, while providing an opportunity to build on the growing demand for Sandals and Beaches Resorts.
“For nearly 60 years, we’ve reimagined what a vacation can be, constantly expanding the ways we inspire our guests to explore, connect and create lifelong memories. We have been building a vacation platform that brings joy to millions of people around the world and creates meaningful relationships that last with our guests. Our partnership with Sandals and Beaches Resorts is an important next step on that journey – bringing together two iconic leading vacation companies to further strengthen and grow one of the most admired resort portfolios in the world. The Stewart family has created powerful and beloved brands, and we are honored to build on that legacy. Together, we see tremendous opportunity to expand the reach of Sandals and Beaches Resorts and continue turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations.”
Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group
“My father, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, founded Sandals Resorts with the belief that a company built in the Caribbean could stand on the world stage alongside the most respected names in hospitality. Today is proof of how far that vision can go. This partnership is the natural next step in building on that conviction. It gives us the ability to grow faster with a partner that shares our values of exceptional hospitality, long-term investment, and the power of enduring brands. Together, we will introduce more guests to Sandals and Beaches Resorts while creating even more extraordinary experiences for those who have made our resorts part of their lives for decades.” Stewart added, “As we continue to grow, we will remain true to what has always defined us: delivering authentic vacations that exceed expectations while creating opportunities for our team members, travel advisor partners and the communities we call home. The future has never been brighter, and I know this moment would make my father incredibly proud.”
Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts
Under the terms of the agreement, the Royal Caribbean Group will acquire a 50% equity stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for approximately $3 billion. The deal is expected to close in early 2027, pending customary regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.
With Royal Caribbean Group expanding further into the all-inclusive resort market, this partnership could mark a significant new chapter for both companies and for the Caribbean vacation industry.
What do you think about the new Royal Caribbean Group and Sandals Resorts partnership? How do you think this deal could impact Royal Caribbean, Sandals, and the overall vacation experience for travelers? Share your thoughts in the comments.
No responses yet