Royalton Hotels and Resorts has pushed back the reopening timelines for its Jamaica properties as the company continues to assess and repair damage from Hurricane Melissa, citing safety, structural readiness and long-term operational stability.
In a letter sent to its global travel partners on Nov. 20, the company said post-storm inspections across guest areas, infrastructure and back-of-house operations revealed the need for additional time before welcoming visitors again. Royalton emphasized that reopening will only occur once each resort is fully safe and aligned with the standards expected by both the brand and Jamaican tourism authorities.
As part of the revised plan, Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril and Grand Lido Negril are now scheduled to reopen on Aug. 25, 2026. Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters are expected to reopen on Sept. 15, 2026.
“These dates are a necessary response to post-storm conditions and reflect our emphasis on safety and long-term stability,” the company said in a message to global travel partners, adding that its timelines may be reviewed should earlier readiness become possible. The message underscored that decisions were driven by a “safety-first approach.”
Royalton acknowledged the impact the delays may have on travel advisors and their clients and confirmed that guests may cancel or rebook without penalty, or move their reservations to any other resort within the Royalton Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Relocated or rebooked guests will receive a welcome amenity and a bottle of wine on arrival as a gesture of appreciation.
The company said its teams in Jamaica continue to focus on restoring full operational stability, protecting staff well-being, and ensuring working conditions are secure and sustainable before reopening. It described its efforts as a long-term vision centered on supporting Jamaica’s continued tourism recovery and reinforcing the island’s position as one of the region’s premier destinations.
Royalton said it will provide further updates as work progresses.
The move comes in contrast to those by several other top Jamaica resort operators, including Sandals, which is already reopening most of its resorts in December, and Montego Bay legends like Half Moon and Round Hill, which are also opening up again in December.
Caribbean Journal Staff
2025-11-23 01:54:00