Royal Caribbean to Acquire 50% Stake in Sandals

On October 28, 2026, Royal Caribbean Group announced plans to acquire a 50% stake each in Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts to expand its loyalty ecosystem. The company said its loyalty program currently covers 20% to 25% of guests' annual vacation spending, and with the addition of the all-inclusive resort business it is expected to rise to about 50%. The same report said Royal Caribbean's third-quarter results exceeded guidance and it raised its full-year outlook, mainly driven by stronger-than-expected demand for close-in European sailings. A follow-up report on October 30 disclosed third-quarter adjusted earnings per share of $6.57, with the full-year adjusted earnings per share outlook raised to $17.85 to $17.95; third-quarter total revenue of $5.6 billion and net profit of $1.7 billion, capacity up 8% year over year, and load factor at 112%. That report said the company is advancing a joint venture with Sandals and Beaches resorts, expected to be completed in early 2027. Earlier reports did not mention the transaction amount, completion time or approval progress, while the follow-up report gave an expected completion time of early 2027.