Royal Caribbean to buy 50% stake in Sandals Resorts for $3 bln

Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) is investing $3 billion for a 50% stake in Sandals Resorts, forming a joint venture to expand both companies' vacation offerings. The deal, expected to close in early 2027, aims to accelerate Sandals' growth and broaden Royal Caribbean's vacation portfolio. Both companies will maintain their current operations, with the partnership adding resources for future opportunities.

Royal Caribbean Group agreed to buy a 50% stake in Sandals Resorts International for $3 billion, expanding its land-based vacation offerings. The deal was announced by the cruise operator.

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.