Stewart expanding AC Marriott brand to Montego Bay with new EP hotel
Published:Saturday | June 7, 2025 | 9:09 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, has signed a major franchise deal with AC Marriott to construct a new AC Hotel in Montego Bay, St James.
The hotel will be the second such property under his leadership and the first European Plan (EP) hotel of its kind in the nation’s tourism capital.
The 168-room development will be built on the site of the former Sandals Carlyle on Kent Avenue, which Stewart plans to demolish. The new property is expected to help spearhead the revitalisation of Montego Bay’s famed Hip Strip.
Positioned as a stylish business hotel just four minutes from Sangster International Airport, the property will offer structured parking, a conference facility for up to 200 people, and uninterrupted views of what Stewart describes as “the prettiest water ever in Montego Bay”.
Airport shuttles will also be available, making it one of the most conveniently located accommodations for both local and international travellers.
“This will be the world’s best AC,” Stewart told The Gleaner. “From the double-vaulted lobby to the sky deck and bar overlooking that turquoise water, we’re creating a product that embodies the spirit of Montego Bay while elevating the guest experience.”
The EP model, Stewart explained, is a strategic move designed to align with the evolution of the Hip Strip, offering guests flexibility in dining and entertainment while fostering partnerships with surrounding businesses.
“The Hip Strip has long needed an EP hotel that blends business with leisure,” stated Stewart.
The new property is expected to generate employment for approximately 400 people during its development and operational phases. Demolition of the existing structure will commence later this year, with construction slated to begin by the end of 2025. The hotel is projected to open in the summer of 2027.
Stewart noted that the hotel will feature ocean-view rooms throughout, thanks to a strategic design shift towards the adjacent Dennis Morgan property. The architecture will mirror the sleek, contemporary AC aesthetic seen in Kingston, with a Montego Bay twist, coastal tones will move from cobalt to teal, reflecting the vibrant blues of the Caribbean Sea.
Guests can also expect a signature AC Lounge in the lobby, a hallmark of the brand, alongside a sky deck and rooftop bar that overlooks the mesmerising coastline.
MID-RANGE OPTION
With pricing estimated at US$185 per night, the hotel will serve as a mid-range, full-service option, catering to both leisure and corporate markets, including travellers from Kingston, Mandeville, Atlanta, and beyond.
Stewart also emphasised the appeal of “sexy international brands” like AC Marriott in elevating Jamaica’s global hotel offerings.
“This is going to be a true airport hotel on the ocean – accessible, beautifully designed, and ready to support events like Reggae Sumfest, festivals, and corporate functions.”
Just last week, Stewart restructured the leadership of the AC brand in Jamaica by appointing respected tourism professionals Wayne Cummings and Omar Robinson to the AC Jamaica board, a move that signals a deeper commitment to Marriott’s expansion and Jamaica’s hospitality growth.
The AC Montego Bay project aligns with broader rejuvenation efforts along Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, where cultural investments such as the new mural installations at S Hotel are already drawing foot traffic and renewed interest. Stewart expressed a desire to collaborate with fellow stakeholders, stating, “We’re working together to create a world-class product that benefits all Jamaicans and visitors, local and international.”
While the local architectural firm has yet to be announced, Stewart confirmed that the design will be executed in partnership with Marriott’s overseas design studio, supported by a Jamaican architect.
A formal project launch took place on Monday, with the attendance of Marriott’s Senior Director of Development Paula Cerrillo, government senators Delano Seiveright and Charles Sinclair, Opposition Senator Janice Allen, and Deputy Mayor of Montego Bay, Dwight ‘Debo’ Crawford.