Two Caribbean Icons, One Big Announcement: Sandals and Royal Caribbean Join Forces
If you've ever stood on a Royal Caribbean deck watching an island come into view and thought, "I wish I could stay here a few more days," this news is for you.
On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, Royal Caribbean Group and Sandals Resorts announced they had signed an agreement to form a partnership in the all-inclusive resort space, with Royal Caribbean Group investing in a 50 percent share. As a Certified Sandals Specialist who loves a good cruise, I couldn't be more excited to share what this means for you. Jamaica Observer
What Is This Partnership?
Put simply, two of the most beloved names in Caribbean vacations are now teaming up. Royal Caribbean Group will acquire a 50 percent ownership stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for approximately US$3 billion. That makes Royal Caribbean Group, which is the parent company of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, a partner in the all-inclusive resort business for the first time. Jamaica ObserverCaribbean Journal
This isn't a takeover of the Sandals you know and love. The joint venture will be run by a board led jointly by Sandals' Adam Stewart and Royal Caribbean's Jason Liberty, and Stewart will continue guiding the company's long-term growth as executive chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts. The Stewart family's vision, the one that gave us butler service, overwater villas and "Luxury Included," stays at the heart of the brand. Jamaica Observer
Will My Upcoming Trip Change?
No, and that's the best part. Existing reservations, loyalty programs, resort operations and cruise operations will all continue as usual. If you're booked at Sandals Montego Bay this winter or sailing on Icon of the Seas next spring, nothing changes. Pack your sunscreen and enjoy. Jamaica Observer
When Does It Begin?
The agreement is signed, but it isn't official yet. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions. So think of the rest of 2026 as the "engagement period." The partnership formally begins once the deal closes next year. Cruise Critic
What Could the Future Hold?
This is where it gets fun. The companies haven't announced specific new products yet, but they've said they will explore opportunities to broaden distribution, deepen guest engagement and make it easier for travelers to discover vacation experiences across both portfolios. Sandals
Reading between the lines, here's what I'll be watching for:
Cruise-and-stay packages. Imagine a seven-night Caribbean sailing followed by four nights at a Sandals resort, all planned together.
Loyalty perks across brands. Royal Caribbean already offers an industry-first loyalty program. Connected rewards between cruises and resorts could be a game changer for loyal guests. Royalcaribbeangrouppresscenter
Family options on land and sea. Beaches Resorts' family-friendly style pairs naturally with Royal Caribbean's family cruising.
More resorts, faster. The investment is meant to help Sandals and Beaches grow. One project already underway is the former Sandals Royal Caribbean, which is being transformed into Sandals Caribbean Cay and reopens this December with 291 rooms, an expanded private-island experience, new SkyPool Suites and new dining concepts. Caribbean Journal
Again, these are possibilities, not promises. But the direction is clear: more ways to experience the Caribbean you love.
Why This Matters to You,
For years, travelers have had to choose: cruise or resort. This partnership hints at a future where you don't have to pick. You'll be able to sample several islands by sea, then settle into barefoot luxury on land.
As your travel advisor, I'll be following every development closely. Once new packages and perks are announced, you'll hear about them here first.
Ready to plan your next Sandals escape or Royal Caribbean adventure? Visit As You Wish Luxury Travel both at the Lorain County Chamber Business Expo at Tom's County Place in Avon between 3:30 and 6:15 pm on November 5 2026. It's FREE to attend. We will make your Caribbean dreams come, and at no extra cost for our services.
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