Royalton pushes reopening of resorts in Jamaica to 2026, cites safety concerns after Hurricane Melissa
Published:Friday | November 21, 2025 | 6:41 PM
Royalton Resorts has pushed back the reopening of its Jamaican properties to mid-2026, saying extensive post-Hurricane Melissa assessments have made it impossible to resume operations earlier without compromising guest and staff safety.
In a letter sent to its global travel partners on November 20, the hotel chain said the storm left “significant operational challenges” across Jamaica, prompting a full review of structural integrity, guest areas, and back-of-house operations at its five local resorts.
Following the evaluations, Royalton Negril, Royalton Hideaway Negril, and Grand Lido Negril are now scheduled to reopen after Jamaica’s Emancipation and Independence holidays on August 25, 2026.
Royalton Blue Waters and Royalton Hideaway Blue Waters have been given a revised reopening date of September 15, 2026.
“These dates are a necessary response to post-storm conditions and reflect our emphasis on safety and long-term stability,” the company stated, noting that the decision was driven by a “safety-first approach” and that timelines may be reviewed if conditions allow for earlier readiness.
Royalton acknowledged the impact the extended closure will have on guests and travel partners but promised flexibility.
Clients may cancel or rebook without penalty, or relocate to another resort within the Royalton Hotels & Resorts portfolio.
Those who choose to move or reschedule will receive a welcome amenity and a bottle of wine upon arrival “as a gesture of appreciation.”
The company stressed that its commitment to Jamaica “has only strengthened” in the wake of the storm, calling the island an essential part of its story and long-term strategy.
“Reopening responsibly also means protecting the safety and well-being of our staff and ensuring that working conditions are stable, secure, and fully prepared for normal operations,” Royalton said.
It added that the investment of “time, resources, and expertise” in the recovery effort is aimed at ensuring that when the resorts eventually reopen, they do so at a standard that “uplifts the destination and inspires travellers to return.”
Royalton positioned the decision as part of a broader long-term vision tied to Jamaica’s continued growth as “one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after places for visitors seeking natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and world-class tourism.”
The company committed to providing ongoing updates to partners as recovery work progresses, adding that it looks forward to welcoming guests back “as soon as it is safe and responsible to do so.”
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