Latest news with #RoyalBeachClubs
Business Insider
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Royal Caribbean and Carnival are racing to grow their private islands and resorts. Here's how their new cruise destinations compare.
Large cruise lines are expanding their collections of private islands and resorts. Royal Caribbean has been a leader with its themepark-like island. Now, competitors like Carnival are coming. Here's how Carnival's Celebration Key and Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico compare. Royal Caribbean might need to post a lookout from its theme park-like private island: Its biggest competitor is steaming straight ahead. Carnival is set to open a multi-complex resort, Celebration Key, in July on the Grand Bahama Island. And it'll be packed with amenities that so far have been decidedly Royal Caribbean's turf: water slides, swim-up bars, and pay-to-enter clubs. It's not alone: Almost every major cruise company is rushing to develop its collection of private destinations. Norwegian is building a pier and new resort-like amenities at its Caribbean island, Great Stirrup Cay. And MSC is building a second, smaller island next to its first, Ocean Cay. They all come on the heels of Royal Caribbean's wildly successful island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, which arguably kickstarted the cruise-to-resort boom when it launched in 2019. Royal Caribbean has invested $350 million into enhancing the island with features like a ticketed adult-only lounge. Emphasis on "ticketed" — it's a key reason cruise companies are expanding their resort portfolios. These in-house warm-weather retreats both maximize profits and reduce fuel expenditure due to their proximity to Florida's major ports. Let's look at how Royal Caribbean and Carnival are going head-to-head with their coming destinations. Carnival and Royal Caribbean each have at least one destination scheduled to debut in 2025. In addition to its private island, Royal Caribbean is building two pay-to-enter "Royal Beach Clubs" on Paradise Island, Bahamas, and Cozumel, Mexico. They're set to open in 2025 and 2026. There's also another beach destination on Lelepa, Vanuatu, that's set to open in 2027, and a second Perfect Day that's set for 2027, too. CocoCay, which is the model for these planned Royal destinations, operates less like an untouched island and more like a Caribbean resort with pay-to-enter clubs, waterslides, and upscale lounges. None of Carnival's private ports, including its RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay island, are as flashy or theme park-like as its competitor — that is, until Celebration Key is set to open in July. Celebration Key and Perfect Day Mexico: sisters, not twins. Both cruise-owned resorts are intended to be complimentary to enter. But it's not all free: Guests will encounter add-on fees for different amenities. They'll also each have more than 30 food and beverage options scattered throughout different districts, designed for different travelers. At both resorts, five segments are fairly comparable: an arrivals area, a premium club, stretches of beaches, an adult-only lounge, and a laid-back family-friendly pool. Only Carnival's Celebration Key plans to have a shopping district. The open-air retail center, called Lokono Cove, is set to carry a variety of gift shop inventory made by local Bahamian artists. Royal Caribbean says Perfect Day Mexico will also sell locally made souvenirs, although it's unclear where these stores will be. Similarly, only Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico is expected to have a complete waterpark. Royal Caribbean is recreating Perfect Day at CocoCay's best amenity — its 14-slide waterpark, which can cost about $100 per person to enter — at Perfect Day Mexico. Plans for the new Loco Waterpark span over 30 rides, including a six-person raft slide and two 170-foot-tall, over two-minute-long racing slides. There will also be a kids' section and various pools for the youngest guests. Carnival's Celebration Key isn't expected to have a waterpark, although the company does say its family pool, Starfish Lagoon, will have a children's water play area and two 350-foot-long, 10-story-tall slides. Starfish Lagoon is Carnival's take on a kid-friendly resort pool. In addition to the water amenities, Carnival says Starfish Lagoon will have outdoor games and sports, a swim-up bar, hammocks, and both floating and on-land cabanas — all centered on a large pool. Royal Caribbean's family area, Splash Cove, should look drastically different — and lazier. In addition to a 100,000-square-foot pool and a water playground, Perfect Day Mexico's Splash Cove is said to have the cruise line's first lazy river, dotted with in-water bars, rentable cabanas, and a high-energy path with waves and rapids. Looking for an escape from the kids? Royal Caribbean promises El Hideaway — and Carnival promotes Calypso Lagoon. Calypso Lagoon shares Starfish Lagoon's large pool and sports amenities. To make it grown-up-friendly, its plans also include a bar with 50 swinging seats and an adult-only section marked by a DJ, plenty of lounge chairs, and, of course, rentable cabanas. Both Calypso and Starfish share a mile-long beach. Perfect Day Mexico's beach is set to be about twice as long. Unlike Calypso Lagoon, Perfect Day Mexico's adult-only El Hideaway would require a day pass (likely with a fee) to enter. Once inside, Royal Caribbean says guests will have amenities like a swim-up bar, a DJ, and a rentable 20-person cabana with a private pool and bar. If you want to spend big, pay for the premium beach clubs: Perfect Day Mexico's Costa and Celebration Key's Pearl Cove. Perfect Day Mexico's Costa Beach Club and Celebration Key's Pearl Cove Beach Club are expected to operate as upscale waterfront lounges with high-end restaurants and infinity pools. Carnival's is meant to be adult-only. Both resorts could become the centerpiece of their cruise lines' itineraries. Carnival says it will continue expanding Celebration Key after its July debut, including building a $100 million pier extension to simultaneously accommodate four of its largest ships by 2026. Almost all of the company's vessels are currently scheduled to visit Celebration Key. By 2028, Carnival says the resort will be capable of welcoming 4 million travelers annually. Similarly, Cruise Critic reported that Perfect Day Mexico will be able to accommodate up to 21,000 guests daily. And by 2027, 90% of Royal Caribbean's Caribbean guests will sail to a Perfect Day resort: CocoCay, Mexico, or both.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ROYAL CARIBBEAN GIVES THRILLING FIRST LOOK AT PERFECT DAY MEXICO, PLUS THREE MORE DESTINATION EXPERIENCES TO COME
From record-breaking firsts at the game-changing Perfect Day Mexico to ultimate beach days, vacationers can create the memories of a lifetime in more ways than ever before MIAMI, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The world's boldest vacations are on the horizon as Royal Caribbean is raising the bar with its newly revealed Ultimate Destination lineup – with headliner Perfect Day Mexico* set to break records with never-before-seen features. From all-new thrills and unrivaled ways to chill at the next Perfect Day to unmatched beach getaways across the first Royal Beach Clubs, the vacation brand's growing portfolio of exclusive destinations will deliver more ways for vacationers to experience the best of Royal Caribbean's newest ships alongside shoreside adventures in Mexico, The Bahamas and the South Pacific. "We have spent the last 50 years shattering perceptions around cruising to transform into a global vacation brand for all generations. Now, we're bringing our demonstrated history of unparalleled service and revolutionary innovation – everything our vacationers know and love – into our collection of destinations that offer more locally inspired perfect days and beachfront getaways," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. "Perfect Day Mexico is bigger and bolder than anything we have done to date. This destination will be the ultimate vacation for families, and we cannot wait to welcome adventurers from around the world to Mexico for an experience only Royal Caribbean can provide." Spanning more than 200 acres on Mexico's Caribbean coast, Perfect Day Mexico will raise the bar on vacations with record-breaking experiences, industry firsts and twists on Royal Caribbean favorites when it all comes to life in fall 2027. There's something for adventurers of all ages across seven neighborhoods. Highlights include: Loco Waterpark – Thrill-seekers can conquer more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The more than 170-foot-tall Jaguar's Peak features two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world. Vacationers can scale new heights across the tower's 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once. There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world's first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico's iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there's something for everyone. Splash Cove – The central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world – with a crazy side. Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who dare, an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins. In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool – just one of Perfect Day Mexico's more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields. The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean's largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect homebase for families. El Hideaway – At this adults-only neighborhood, day pass holders 18 years and older can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ. Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas. Costa Beach Club – Guests looking to upgrade their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of Costa Beach Club. And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool. Chill Beach North and South – Vacationers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico. Fiesta Plaza – Where all the festivities begin: a vibrant arrival area transports vacationers straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance. Plus, the world's largest sombrero sits atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming guests with margaritas, cervezas and more. Fueling the thrill and chill all day long are 12 regionally inspired dining options, from sit-down spots to grab-and-go eateries, with nearly all food spots complimentary to guests. Plus, there are endless reasons to toast "¡Salud!" at 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. Mariachi performances, art installations, and local artisans for souvenir shopping further bring the Mexican culture to life. Upon opening in fall 2027, Perfect Day Mexico will welcome Western Caribbean itineraries sailing from Galveston, New Orleans and all Florida homeports. Itineraries featuring Perfect Day Mexico will become available to book this fall. "We're committed to pushing the boundaries of what a modern-day vacation can be – delivering innovative experiences that create unforgettable memories for our guests and value for the communities we visit," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings at sea and on land, our ambition is to offer our guests a diverse range of experiences that grow with them, turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations." To bring Perfect Day Mexico to life, Royal Caribbean is continuing its longstanding partnership with the local government and community to develop a modern, sustainable destination that will bring vacationers from around the world to Mexico. The port will remain open during all phases of the project and beyond, with a new welcome center being built by Royal Caribbean to acquaint guests of all visiting cruise lines with landmark attractions in the Mahahual area and provide transportation throughout the region. The development of the Perfect Day Mexico site, and local community infrastructure projects, is in line with parent company Royal Caribbean Group's SEA the Future commitment to deliver the best vacation experiences in a responsible manner by sustaining the planet, energizing communities and accelerating innovation. "At Royal Caribbean, our ambition is bigger than ever, and so is our lineup of amazing experiences we are designing, all centered on our guests," said Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean. "Vacationers trust us to help them make every moment a memory, which is why we are changing the game with unforgettable experiences at Perfect Day Mexico and beyond." Royal Caribbean delivers the best vacations to more than 7 million people annually and visits 300+ destinations on 28 ships, with four more on order. Over the next three years, the vacation brand will also expand its destination lineup to six locales with the addition of four exclusive destination experiences that redefine what a vacation can look like. Alongside the original game-changer Perfect Day at CocoCay and the next bold adventure, Perfect Day Mexico, Royal Caribbean's new Royal Beach Clubs will deliver the ultimate beach day. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island – Set to debut in December 2025, the first-of-its-kind Royal Beach Club in The Bahamas will combine the stunning beaches of Nassau's Paradise Island with Royal Caribbean's signature experiences. With the purchase of an all-inclusive day pass, vacationers can enjoy unlimited dining, drinks and amenities, from The Floating Flamingo – the world's largest swim-up bar – to three island-style eateries for local fare, Bahamian art installations, and live music. Vacationers can join the official waitlist to be the first to know when bookings become available in just a few short weeks. Royal Beach Club Cozumel – Featuring stunning beaches, pools with swim-up bars, cabanas, snorkeling, kayaking and more, the beach club will complement all the island has to offer when it opens in 2026. The spirit of Mexico will be at the heart of the experience across local touches and a variety of ways to dine and drink, a street market, and hands-on experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes. Adding to the range of experiences for any vibe and mood are Royal Caribbean's exclusive beach destinations in Labadee, Haiti, and, in early 2027, Lelepa in the South Pacific for more ways to bask in paradise. Lelepa – Royal Caribbean is bringing a bold beach experience to the shores of Lelepa, a Vanuatuan island in the South Pacific Archipelago east of Australia. The first exclusive island cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere will offer a locally inspired experience for guests in Australia and beyond, complete with serene beaches, nature trails, water activities and delicious dining. In August 2025, vacationers on the new Icon of vacations, Star of the Seas, will experience the best of Royal Caribbean from beginning to end with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay alongside the world's best family vacation. By 2027, 90% of the brand's Caribbean vacationers will experience a Perfect Day across Perfect Day at CocoCay and Perfect Day Mexico. What's more, vacationers sailing from U.S. Gulf ports are in for the ultimate vacation days starting in 2027 with Royal Caribbean itineraries that visit both Royal Beach Club Cozumel and Perfect Day Mexico. More information about Royal Caribbean's leading vacations and growing lineup of destinations can be found at *NOTE TO EDITOR: Assets and additional information on Perfect Day Mexico can be found at About Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line's game-changing ships and exclusive destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line's top-rated exclusive destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Royal Caribbean International
Cision Canada
15-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
ROYAL CARIBBEAN GIVES THRILLING FIRST LOOK AT PERFECT DAY MEXICO, PLUS THREE MORE DESTINATION EXPERIENCES TO COME
From record-breaking firsts at the game-changing Perfect Day Mexico to ultimate beach days, vacationers can create the memories of a lifetime in more ways than ever before MIAMI, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ -- The world's boldest vacations are on the horizon as Royal Caribbean is raising the bar with its newly revealed Ultimate Destination lineup – with headliner Perfect Day Mexico * set to break records with never-before-seen features. From all-new thrills and unrivaled ways to chill at the next Perfect Day to unmatched beach getaways across the first Royal Beach Clubs, the vacation brand's growing portfolio of exclusive destinations will deliver more ways for vacationers to experience the best of Royal Caribbean's newest ships alongside shoreside adventures in Mexico, The Bahamas and the South Pacific. "We have spent the last 50 years shattering perceptions around cruising to transform into a global vacation brand for all generations. Now, we're bringing our demonstrated history of unparalleled service and revolutionary innovation – everything our vacationers know and love – into our collection of destinations that offer more locally inspired perfect days and beachfront getaways," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. "Perfect Day Mexico is bigger and bolder than anything we have done to date. This destination will be the ultimate vacation for families, and we cannot wait to welcome adventurers from around the world to Mexico for an experience only Royal Caribbean can provide." Spanning more than 200 acres on Mexico's Caribbean coast, Perfect Day Mexico will raise the bar on vacations with record-breaking experiences, industry firsts and twists on Royal Caribbean favorites when it all comes to life in fall 2027. There's something for adventurers of all ages across seven neighborhoods. Highlights include: Loco Waterpark – Thrill-seekers can conquer more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The more than 170-foot-tall Jaguar's Peak features two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world. Vacationers can scale new heights across the tower's 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once. There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world's first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico's iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there's something for everyone. Splash Cove – The central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world – with a crazy side. Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points and plenty of ways to stay hydrated with float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who dare, an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins. In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool – just one of Perfect Day Mexico's more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields. The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean's largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect homebase for families. El Hideaway – At this adults-only neighborhood, day pass holders 18 years and older can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ. Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas. Costa Beach Club – Guests looking to upgrade their beach day to the next level of exclusivity can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of Costa Beach Club. And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool. Chill Beach North and South – Vacationers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier. Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico. Fiesta Plaza – Where all the festivities begin: a vibrant arrival area transports vacationers straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance. Plus, the world's largest sombrero sits atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming guests with margaritas, cervezas and more. Fueling the thrill and chill all day long are 12 regionally inspired dining options, from sit-down spots to grab-and-go eateries, with nearly all food spots complimentary to guests. Plus, there are endless reasons to toast " ¡Salud!" at 24 bars, including six swim-up bars. Mariachi performances, art installations, and local artisans for souvenir shopping further bring the Mexican culture to life. Upon opening in fall 2027, Perfect Day Mexico will welcome Western Caribbean itineraries sailing from Galveston, New Orleans and all Florida homeports. Itineraries featuring Perfect Day Mexico will become available to book this fall. "We're committed to pushing the boundaries of what a modern-day vacation can be – delivering innovative experiences that create unforgettable memories for our guests and value for the communities we visit," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings at sea and on land, our ambition is to offer our guests a diverse range of experiences that grow with them, turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations." To bring Perfect Day Mexico to life, Royal Caribbean is continuing its longstanding partnership with the local government and community to develop a modern, sustainable destination that will bring vacationers from around the world to Mexico. The port will remain open during all phases of the project and beyond, with a new welcome center being built by Royal Caribbean to acquaint guests of all visiting cruise lines with landmark attractions in the Mahahual area and provide transportation throughout the region. The development of the Perfect Day Mexico site, and local community infrastructure projects, is in line with parent company Royal Caribbean Group's SEA the Future commitment to deliver the best vacation experiences in a responsible manner by sustaining the planet, energizing communities and accelerating innovation. "At Royal Caribbean, our ambition is bigger than ever, and so is our lineup of amazing experiences we are designing, all centered on our guests," said Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean. "Vacationers trust us to help them make every moment a memory, which is why we are changing the game with unforgettable experiences at Perfect Day Mexico and beyond." Royal Caribbean delivers the best vacations to more than 7 million people annually and visits 300+ destinations on 28 ships, with four more on order. Over the next three years, the vacation brand will also expand its destination lineup to six locales with the addition of four exclusive destination experiences that redefine what a vacation can look like. Alongside the original game-changer Perfect Day at CocoCay and the next bold adventure, Perfect Day Mexico, Royal Caribbean's new Royal Beach Clubs will deliver the ultimate beach day. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island – Set to debut in December 2025, the first-of-its-kind Royal Beach Club in The Bahamas will combine the stunning beaches of Nassau's Paradise Island with Royal Caribbean's signature experiences. With the purchase of an all-inclusive day pass, vacationers can enjoy unlimited dining, drinks and amenities, from The Floating Flamingo – the world's largest swim-up bar – to three island-style eateries for local fare, Bahamian art installations, and live music. Vacationers can join the official waitlist to be the first to know when bookings become available in just a few short weeks. Royal Beach Club Cozumel – Featuring stunning beaches, pools with swim-up bars, cabanas, snorkeling, kayaking and more, the beach club will complement all the island has to offer when it opens in 2026. The spirit of Mexico will be at the heart of the experience across local touches and a variety of ways to dine and drink, a street market, and hands-on experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes. Adding to the range of experiences for any vibe and mood are Royal Caribbean's exclusive beach destinations in Labadee, Haiti, and, in early 2027, Lelepa in the South Pacific for more ways to bask in paradise. Lelepa – Royal Caribbean is bringing a bold beach experience to the shores of Lelepa, a Vanuatuan island in the South Pacific Archipelago east of Australia. The first exclusive island cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere will offer a locally inspired experience for guests in Australia and beyond, complete with serene beaches, nature trails, water activities and delicious dining. In August 2025, vacationers on the new Icon of vacations, Star of the Seas, will experience the best of Royal Caribbean from beginning to end with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay alongside the world's best family vacation. By 2027, 90% of the brand's Caribbean vacationers will experience a Perfect Day across Perfect Day at CocoCay and Perfect Day Mexico. What's more, vacationers sailing from U.S. Gulf ports are in for the ultimate vacation days starting in 2027 with Royal Caribbean itineraries that visit both Royal Beach Club Cozumel and Perfect Day Mexico. More information about Royal Caribbean's leading vacations and growing lineup of destinations can be found at About Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line's game-changing ships and exclusive destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line's top-rated exclusive destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.
