BREAKING NEWS: Royal Caribbean Group Takes 50% Stake in Sandals Resorts for US$3 Billion

Royal Caribbean Group will acquire a 50% equity interest in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for approximately US$3 billion, with the partners saying the joint venture will create new opportunities for continued resort growth while broadening the experiences across Royal Caribbean Group’s vacation platform.

The transaction is expected to close in early 2027, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions.

The partnership brings together two of the travel industry’s most high-visibility vacation companies, pairing Sandals and Beaches’ all-inclusive resort expertise with Royal Caribbean Group’s vacation platform, including the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea brands – a portfolio of private destinations, new river cruising offering, and more.

“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,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. 

“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.”

“My Father Would Be Proud”

Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, said he believes his late father would be proud of the development.

“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.” 

Stewart added: “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.” 

The joint venture will be governed by a board under the shared leadership of Stewart and Liberty. Stewart will maintain a leadership role in guiding the company’s long-term strategic growth as Executive Chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts. 

Existing reservations, loyalty programs, resort operations and cruise operations will continue as usual, with the partnership bringing additional resources to support future opportunities.

“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,” Stewart said. 

“The future has never been brighter, and I know this moment would make my father incredibly proud.”