Royal Caribbean Marks Historic Milestone and Reveals Exciting New Destinations
Royal Caribbean International has reached a monumental milestone—welcoming its 100 millionth guest—while announcing a bold expansion of premium beach destinations in the Bahamas and Mexico. These new developments will further strengthen the brand’s reputation for combining world-class cruising with exclusive land-based experiences.
100 Million Guests and a Legacy of Innovation
This achievement reflects more than five decades of innovation, hospitality, and dedication to memorable vacations. Royal Caribbean’s fleet of nearly 30 ships visits over 300 destinations worldwide, catering to a wide range of travelers. Its itineraries and onboard offerings appeal equally to adventure-seekers, luxury travelers, and families, making it one of the most versatile cruise brands in the industry.
Multi-generational travel remains a key strength for Royal Caribbean, with millions of families choosing its cruises each year. From bumper cars and ice skating to rock climbing and water slides, the cruise line’s activities are designed to entertain guests of all ages. Over the years, these activities have become part of the company’s signature appeal.
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island – Bahamas (Opening December 2025)
The first new addition in the expansion plan is the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, opening in December 2025 in Nassau, Bahamas. Located on a scenic 17-acre stretch of Paradise Island, this all-inclusive retreat will feature two white-sand beaches, three inviting pools—including the world’s largest swim-up bar—and exclusive cabanas.
Guests can expect Bahamian-inspired cuisine, live entertainment, and water transport to and from the cruise port. With a day-pass model, this beach club is designed to offer a private, premium experience that enhances any Bahamas cruise itinerary.
Royal Beach Club Cozumel – Mexico (Opening 2026)
Following the Bahamas launch, Royal Caribbean will open Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026. Situated just a short distance from the cruise pier, this 42-acre destination will feature a pristine beach, two pools with swim-up bars, shaded cabanas, and authentic Mexican dining experiences.
The concept is to provide cruise passengers with a luxurious, culturally rich escape that blends relaxation and local flavor in a controlled, high-quality environment.
Perfect Day Mexico – Costa Maya/Mahahual (Opening Fall 2027)
The most ambitious of the upcoming projects is Perfect Day Mexico, scheduled to open in fall 2027 on the Caribbean coast of Costa Maya, near Mahahual. Spanning over 200 acres, this mega-resort will be divided into themed “neighborhoods,” each offering a different atmosphere and pace.
Key features will include:
- Loco Waterpark with more than 30 waterslides, including record-breaking attractions and family play zones
- Jaguar’s Peak, a towering 170-foot water slide structure offering panoramic coastal views
- The world’s longest lazy river, winding through wave pools, rapids, and float-up bars
- 141 cabanas, including family-friendly Splashaway Cabanas
- Adults-only El Hideaway, a lively beach club with DJ performances, a massive swim-up bar, and a private 20-person party cabana with its own pool
- Costa Beach Club with an infinity pool, beachfront dining, and direct ocean access
- Fiesta Plaza, a cultural hub with live music, dancing, and vibrant décor
Perfect Day Mexico will also host more than a dozen restaurants and two dozen bars, ensuring guests can enjoy a wide array of food and beverage options throughout their visit.
Economic Impact and Regional Growth
Royal Caribbean’s investment in these destinations is significant, both financially and in terms of job creation. The developments are expected to create thousands of jobs in construction and ongoing operations, while also drawing more international visitors to the Bahamas and Mexico.
In the Bahamas, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is anticipated to boost Nassau’s appeal as a cruise destination, adding a premium option for travelers. In Mexico, both Cozumel and Costa Maya are set to benefit from increased tourism spending, infrastructure improvements, and greater global exposure.
The Strategy Behind the Expansion
The move toward exclusive, branded destinations is a strategic response to growing competition in the cruise market. By controlling the guest experience both at sea and on land, Royal Caribbean can ensure consistency, safety, and high standards of service. These destinations also encourage passengers to spend more time and money within the Royal Caribbean ecosystem, rather than relying solely on local tour operators.
The company’s recent ship launches—such as the Icon of the Seas in 2024 and the upcoming Star of the Seas in 2025—complement this destination strategy. These ships are designed to seamlessly integrate with the new shore experiences, offering tailored itineraries that maximize time at these exclusive locations.
Looking Ahead
Royal Caribbean’s timeline for the new developments is as follows:
- December 2025 – Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opens in the Bahamas
- 2026 – Royal Beach Club Cozumel opens in Mexico
- Fall 2027 – Perfect Day Mexico launches in Costa Maya
Each of these destinations is set to raise the standard for cruise-line-owned resorts, blending thrilling attractions with cultural authenticity and natural beauty.
In Summary
Royal Caribbean’s celebration of its 100 millionth guest is more than a milestone—it’s a springboard into a new era of cruise travel. With premium beach clubs in Nassau and Cozumel and the record-setting Perfect Day Mexico on the horizon, the company is redefining what it means to cruise. By pairing innovative ships with exclusive destinations, Royal Caribbean is ensuring that its guests experience not just a voyage, but a complete, unforgettable journey from ship to shore.
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