On September 22, 2026, Royal Caribbean agreed to acquire a 50% equity stake in Sandals Resorts for $3 billion. This transaction values Sandals Resorts at $6 billion and represents a significant expansion into the Caribbean resort market.
Royal Caribbean’s Diversification Amid Market Challenges
Royal Caribbean’s stock declined roughly 25% over the past year prior to the deal announcement. The company trimmed forecasts for revenue growth, citing softer demand for European sailings, as it seeks to diversify beyond cruises and become a leader in the broader vacation market.
Caribbean Properties and Cruise Ventures
Sandals Resorts and its Beaches brand operate more than a dozen properties across the Caribbean region, providing all-inclusive resort
options. Royal Caribbean operates several private destinations for its cruise passengers and is investing to expand into land-based vacation offerings through this stake acquisition.
The transaction is expected to close early in 2027. Both companies anticipate the deal will boost growth for Royal Caribbean and Sandals Resorts in their markets.
