On Sept. 23, 2026, Royal Caribbean agreed to buy 50% of Sandals Resorts International for about $3 billion, implying a $6 billion enterprise value and marking its largest land-based hospitality expansion. Its shares fell 6.1% to $230 after the announcement.
Supporters say Sandals’ premium, high-margin resorts could diversify Royal Caribbean beyond cruises and provide steadier earnings. Critics argue the timing is risky amid softer leisure bookings and tighter free cash flow, citing debt concerns and resorts’ exposure to hurricanes. The deal is expected to close in early 2027.
The article says upcoming earnings and booking updates will indicate whether Royal Caribbean’s core cruise business is stabilizing.
