Exclusive: Adam Stewart and Jason Liberty on the Royal Caribbean-Sandals deal
Royal Caribbean Group confirmed a roughly US$3 billion investment to acquire a 50 per cent stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts. The deal establishes a joint venture to expand Royal Caribbean into the all-inclusive resort sector and support growth for Sandals and Beaches across the Caribbean. While a Sandals Director of Sales in Canada described the move as "Freaking awesome," the market reacted negatively. Royal Caribbean stock plummeted 12% following the announcement. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027.
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- ✓ Royal Caribbean is investing roughly US$3 billion for a 50 per cent stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts.
- ✓ The deal is expected to close in early 2027.
- ✓ Royal Caribbean stock dropped 12% after the deal announcement.
What changed
Royal Caribbean confirmed the investment terms and provided a closing timeline of early 2027.
Live updates
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Royal Caribbean acquires 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for $3 billion
Royal Caribbean Group confirmed a roughly US$3 billion investment to acquire a 50 per cent stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts. The deal establishes a joint venture to expand Royal Caribbean into the all-inclusive resort sector and support growth for Sandals and Beaches across the Caribbean. While a Sandals Director of Sales in Canada described the move as "Freaking awesome," the market reacted negatively. Royal Caribbean stock plummeted 12% following the announcement. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027.
Why it matters
This move diversifies Royal Caribbean's portfolio by adding land-based all-inclusive assets to its cruise operations. It represents a significant capital commitment to the Caribbean region. The immediate stock decline suggests investor concern over the deal's valuation or strategic direction.
What is confirmed
- Royal Caribbean is investing roughly US$3 billion for a 50 per cent stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts.
- The deal is expected to close in early 2027.
- Royal Caribbean stock dropped 12% after the deal announcement.
What to watch next
- Official closing of the deal in early 2027
- Further commentary from Adam Stewart and Jason Liberty regarding the partnership
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (7)
- CNBC — Royal Caribbean nears $3 billion deal to take 50% equity stake in Sandals
- Barron's — Royal Caribbean Stock Loses Steam on Report of Sandals Deal
- Reuters — Royal Caribbean acquires stake in resort operator Sandals for $3 billion
- forbes.com — Royal Caribbean Stock Plummets 12% After $3 Billion Deal With Sandals Resorts
- Travel Weekly — Exclusive: Adam Stewart and Jason Liberty on the Royal Caribbean-Sandals deal
- www.paxnews.com — Royal Caribbean confirms $3B deal for 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts
- openjaw.com — "Freaking Awesome": Sandals Exec on Royal Caribbean Deal
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