Sandals delays Jamaica resort reopenings for US$200 million overhaul

Sandals just turned hurricane downtime into a half-billion-dollar glow-up for three Jamaica spots.

Major makeover delays reopenings

• Sandals Montego Bay Royal Caribbean South Coast stay shut longer.
• Hurricane Melissa damage sparked bigger upgrade plans.
• Original May 31 reopening got scrapped for Sandals 2.0 vision.
• Adam Stewart called it a rare blank-canvas chance.

Phased comebacks hit late 2026

• Sandals South Coast targets November 18 return.
• Royal Caribbean Montego Bay follows on December 18.
• Full-scale reimagining skips basic fixes.
• Properties get a total redesign without guest disruption.

Upgrades touch everything

• Arrival zones now showcase Caribbean Sea views.
• Fresh room categories plus revamped pools roll out.
• Social lounges get modern upgrades, too.
• New restaurants and bars expand food and drink lineup.

Other Jamaica spots keep running

• Royal Plantation Ochi Dunn’s River Negril stays open.
• Beaches Negril welcomes guests normally.
• Closures show deep commitment to Jamaica's future.
• Investment locks in next-era luxury vibes.