Royal Caribbean acquires stake in resort operator Sandals for $3 billion

Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) will buy a 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for $3 billion, forming a joint venture. The deal values the resort business at 10x forward EBITDA and is expected to close in early 2027, adding to earnings in 2026. The partnership aims to expand resorts and integrate cruise and resort experiences. RCL secured financing from Morgan Stanley.

Royal Caribbean Group is reportedly in talks to acquire Sandals Resorts International for over $6 billion. The deal, which could close soon, would give Royal Caribbean its first major land-based asset. Sandals' Stewart family would retain a stake. Royal Caribbean shares dropped 6% on the news. The acquisition would combine two travel industry suppliers with strong advisor relationships.

Royal Caribbean is in talks to acquire a 50% stake in Sandals for $3 billion, valuing the resort chain at $6 billion. The deal aims to boost growth for both companies, but talks are ongoing and may not finalize. Royal Caribbean shares fell 6% on the news, down 25% over the past year due to reduced European sailing demand. The cruise company seeks to diversify into land-based vacations, while Sandals offers all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.

Royal Caribbean Group's stock fell 6.99% on September 22, 2026, amid reports of advanced talks to acquire a majority stake in Sandals Resorts International for over $6 billion. Investors expressed concerns about valuation, leverage, and execution risks, as well as potential capital redirection from other initiatives. Despite the drop, the company reported strong operational fundamentals, with annual revenue of $17.93 billion and net profit of $4.27 billion.

Royal Caribbean (RCL) is in talks to acquire a majority stake in Sandals Resorts International for $6 billion, aiming to diversify into all-inclusive resorts. The deal, not yet finalized, would give RCL control of 17 Caribbean resorts. RCL's stock fell 14 points to $236.03 on Sept. 22 following the news.

Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) shares dropped 5% after a Financial Times report suggested it is nearing a deal to acquire a majority stake in Sandals Resorts International for over $6 billion. The acquisition would be RCL's largest, giving it control of 20 resorts and enabling cross-selling opportunities. An agreement could be finalized soon, according to the report.