5 most surprising things revealed about new beach club in The Bahamas

In:
03 Jul 2025

Royal Caribbean has opened bookings for its first beach club, and it has given us our best look yet of what to expect when it opens.

Family pool rendering at Royal beach Club

I've been following the project intently, all the way back to its inception in early 2020.  I think it's an exciting new option in a port that lacks fun things to do that are worth trying.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will open in very late December 2025, and it's essentially a super shore excursion run by Royal Caribbean that takes all of its best ideas from Perfect Day at CocoCay and amps them up.

In looking through what's been revealed, here are the five things that stood out to me the most about this week's announcement.

Two types of day passes

Day pass cost

We knew Royal Caribbean would make the beach club all-inclusive, but I didn't know they'd offer a non-alcoholic option too.

In retrospect, it makes sense to offer a pass without an alcohol component to it. There are a lot of people who prefer not to drink alcohol, or cannot drink alcohol.

There are two passes:

  • Day Pass with Unlimited Open Bar & Dining, starting from $169.99 for guests ages 21+
  • Day Pass with Non-Alcoholic Drinks & Dining, starting from $129.99 for guests ages 13+; $109.99 for ages 4-12; and free for guests ages 3 and under

I'm glad to see the option, especially for my family.  My wife never drinks enough to "break even" on all-inclusive day passes at beaches, so this is a good idea.

I'm going to need to come hungry

Food and drinks infographic

While I knew there would be food included, I didn't know how much new culinary choices would sound so good.

There is complimentary dining at three quick service style restaurants serving fresh handheld options, salads, sides and delicious desserts with a Bahamian twist.

I'm already starting my list of must-try food:

  • Bahamian baked mac 'n cheese
  • Vanilla bundt cake
  • Fire engine fritters

Plus, there are new cocktails to try. The last few batches of new bars that Royal Caribbean has developed have come up with a great assortment of fresh drink ideas.  The beach club will have the Blood Orange Margarita, which sounds like the perfect refreshing drink on a hot day.

Sticker shock with the Ultimate Family Cabana

Cabana infographic

Cabanas at private islands aren't cheap, but I think the price of the Ultimate Family Cabana caught a lot of people's attention.

So far, the going rate for this new type of cabana is $10,000.

To be fair, this isn't like any other cabana Royal Caribbean has made before. It can accommodate up to 12 people and it comes with a private bathroom, reserved beach space, frozen drink machine, a suspended net lounger, spiral slide, and a lot more.

I think they envision this being rented for an extended family gathering to celebrate vacationing together and wanting to go big.

Ultimate Family Cabana

Unlike the Floating Flamingo in Party Cove, I think this is about offering an over-the-top beach day that's more welcoming to younger kids.

Short of an incredible sale, I doubt I'll ever book it, but I bet it's sure to deliver some amazing memories to those that can afford to book it.

The other cabanas are more inline price-wise with cabanas you'd find at CocoCay.  They're right around what you'd pay for similar cabanas at Hideaway Beach, for the most part.

Every pool has a swim-up bar

Ultimate Family Cabana

I didn't know how much I needed swim-up bars until Royal Caribbean added them to bars around CocoCay.

There are three pools, and each one—The Shallow End, The Deep End, and The Floating Flamingo—features a swim-up bar, making this the only Royal Caribbean destination where this is standard across all pools.

In fact, going forward swim-up bars will be common across the new land destinations Royal Caribbean is working on around the world.

Oasis Lagoon

What I like about the swim-up bars is the vibe you get by sitting there.  Even if you don't drink that much, I like the people watching aspect and opportunity to meet people.

Combine that with the fact the pools in the beach club will be heated, I love this idea.

The bundles are an interesting idea

Refreshment bundle

One idea I didn't anticipate at all was offering a combination with the beach club and other add-ons.

You can combine a drink package and the beach club, or go one step further and combine it all with a visit to the water park.

I never considered a bundle as an idea that might work, but I bet a lot of cruisers are likely to want to book them anyway.

I'll have to do the math if it's saving you money. Royal Caribbean claims the price of the bundle at checkout is up to 45% less than those products added to cart individually.

No, the day pass prices didn't surprise me

Day pass prices

If you're wondering, no, I wasn't surprised by the price for the day passes.  Royal Caribbean says it starts at $169, but in practice I've seen the prices closer to $250 per person.  

Even at those prices, it's right around the price of day passes to Atlantis and other resorts in Nassau.  And many of those do not include alcohol.

A day pass to Atlantis resort costs between $190-$255 per person. While that includes admission to Aquaventure, a massive water park, it does not include food or drink.

Baha Mar offers day passes to its Baha Bay waterpark to adults for $160. Once again, it does not include food or drink with that price.

Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island: What you should know before it opens

In:
02 Jul 2025

With multiple beaches, a swimming pool, and private cabanas, The Royal Beach Club is set to be an exciting new option for Royal Caribbean cruise passengers visiting Nassau, and we’re sharing everything you need to know about this exclusive beach day.

Nassau Beach club render

The Royal Beach Club is a new project by Royal Caribbean in partnership with The Bahamas. It’s located on Paradise Island—a narrow strip of land near the cruise port in Nassau—on a 17 acre property.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is available to book now for cruises arriving in Nassau beginning December 2025. Pricing varies by sailing and season. Day passes, cabanas, and premium add-ons can be reserved online or onboard, depending on availability.

Here’s what you should know before it opens.

*Information on this article is subject to change based on new announcements by Royal Caribbean.

What's included with your day pass

Royal Beach Club concept art

Despite its close proximity to the Nassau cruise port, which hosts over 12 different cruise lines, The Royal Beach Club is exclusively for Royal Caribbean cruise passengers. This is with the exception of Bahamian residents along with their friends and family, who can enjoy the beach club's facilities at a reduced rate.

There are two types of passes available:

  1. All-Inclusive Day Pass (with alcohol):

    • Unlimited food and alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks

    • Access to all pools and beaches

    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    • Roundtrip water taxi

    • Entertainment, beach games, beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, restrooms, lockers

  2. Day Pass (non-alcoholic only):

    • All of the above, minus alcoholic drinks (available à la carte)

Both passes include live music, DJ entertainment, and family-friendly beach activities.

Prices

  • Day Pass with Unlimited Open Bar & Dining, starting from $169.99 for guests ages 21+
  • Day Pass with Non-Alcoholic Drinks & Dining, starting from $129.99 for guests ages 13+; $109.99 for ages 4-12; and free for guests ages 3 and under
  • A bundle including the day pass and a beverage package, or paired with exclusive experiences at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Three areas

Poolside rendering beach club

Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is divided into three main areas: Family Beach, Party Cove, and Chill Beach.

Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect in each zone.

Family Beach

Family area rendering

Family Beach is perfect for guests who want to relax in a more casual, kid-friendly atmosphere with easy access to food, drinks, and private spaces.

The Shallow End Pool & Swim-up Bar
A zero-entry pool designed for effortless access, this spot features a swim-up bar where you can enjoy a cocktail or mocktail without leaving the water.

Beach Bars
Grab a refreshing beverage and enjoy the beach vibes from a shaded seat or a lounge chair in the sun.

Paradise Grill
Refuel with a variety of satisfying meals and snacks prepared with a Caribbean twist—everything from salads to local specialties.

Treehouse cabana

Ultimate Family Cabana (Additional cost)
This two-story cabana offers a private retreat with luxury amenities for families or small groups. It’s the most premium experience available on the island.

Beach & Pool Cabanas (Additional cost)
Reserve a private shaded space with attendant service, plush seating, and upgraded amenities. Available in both beachside and poolside locations.

Party Cove

Party Cove rendering

Party Cove is the social hub of the beach club. With nonstop music, drinks, and energy, this area is designed for adults and groups looking to celebrate.

The Floating Flamingo Pool & Swim-up Bar
This two-level swim-up bar is the largest of its kind in the world. Sip handcrafted cocktails while enjoying DJ sets and sweeping ocean views.

Bars
Enjoy a wide selection of drinks from multiple bars conveniently located throughout the cove.

Paradise Grill
Offering the same great menu as other sections of the beach club, this location ensures you’re never far from a delicious bite.

Day Beds (Additional cost)
Rent a cozy day bed complete with beverage service, an umbrella, beach towels, and a private storage area.

The Party Deck (Additional cost)
Elevate your celebration with a private poolside space featuring exclusive drink service, comfortable seating, and unmatched views of the action.

Chill Beach

Pool and beach views in artist rendering

For those in search of quiet and comfort, Chill Beach lives up to its name with a relaxed atmosphere and peaceful oceanfront spaces.

The Deep End Pool & Swim-up Bar
A serene setting for sipping cocktails or mocktails directly from the pool while soaking in the tranquil island scenery.

Beach Bars
Find your favorite tropical drink and enjoy it under an umbrella or from your lounger.

Paradise Grill
Conveniently located to serve beachgoers, this grill offers a wide array of fresh and flavorful dishes.

Beach and Pool Cabanas (Additional cost)
Upgrade your day with a private cabana that comes with comfortable seating, a personal attendant, and scenic views.

Dining around the club

Paradise Island pool

All dining is included in your day pass and is served at three Paradise Grill locations throughout the property. These casual, quick-service spots offer freshly prepared dishes with a Bahamian flair.

Must-try items include:

  • Fire Engine Fritters (corned beef and cheese)

  • BBQ Black Bean Burger

  • Pinwheel Shrimp Skewers with guava glaze

  • Tropical Salad with pineapple, feta, and candied walnuts

  • Bahama-style baked mac & cheese

  • Vanilla bundt cake with guava sauce

Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available throughout, though kosher meals are not offered at this time.

Cabanas, Day Beds & The Party Deck

Ultimate Family Cabana render

For those seeking upgraded experiences, Royal Beach Club offers a wide variety of private spaces for rent:

Cabana Options (all include a personal attendant)

  • Pool Cabanas (248–310 sq. ft.) – Shaded lounge with in-water loungers and Bluetooth speakers

  • Beach Cabanas (248 sq. ft.) – Four loungers and ocean views at Chill or Family Beach

  • Spacious Pool or Beach Cabanas (395 sq. ft.) – Up to 10 guests; includes wet bar, TV, mini fridge, hanging chair

  • Ultimate Family Cabana (2,000 sq. ft.) – A two-story, top-tier retreat for up to 12 guests, with premium amenities and privacy

Other Premium Rentals

  • Day Beds (Party Cove) – For two guests; includes umbrella, cooler, towels, and dry storage

  • The Party Deck (720 sq. ft.) – Private poolside area for up to 12 guests overlooking The Floating Flamingo bar; includes mini fridge, exclusive beverage menu, charging station, and more

All rentals are available to book in advance via the Cruise Planner or onboard at the Shore Excursions desk. They can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund.

Key Differences from Perfect Day at CocoCay

Paradise Island pool
  • Royal Beach Club is a paid, all-inclusive beach club in Nassau

  • Perfect Day at CocoCay is free to enter and offers more thrill-based attractions (such as water slides and a wave pool)

  • CocoCay is a full private island; Royal Beach Club is a shore excursion on Paradise Island

  • Royal Beach Club emphasizes premium beach leisure, food, and drinks rather than waterpark-style fun

Frequently Asked Guest Questions

Family pool render

Is there a capacity limit?
Yes. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island has a capacity that varies seasonally.

Who is allowed to purchase admission to the club?
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is open exclusively to Royal Caribbean Group guests (on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea) and Bahamian residents.

Are there any age restrictions to enter Royal Beach Club Paradise Island?
All guests are welcome to enter Royal Beach Club and are welcome to enjoy their day pass in all areas.

Nassau Beach club render

What identification is required?
Bring your SeaPass card and government-issued ID when disembarking.

Can I bring my own bag or backpack?
Yes. Complimentary lockers are available on-site.

Do I get a discount on a day pass if I already purchased a Deluxe Beverage Package?
No. Guests must book a bundle that combines a beverage package with a day pass. Otherwise, beverages are included based on the pass type purchased.

Is Royal Beach Club Paradise Island wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Water taxis and the destination are both accessible.

Royal Beach Club at Paradise Beach what you should know before it opens

Royal Caribbean opens booking and reveals pricing for its first beach club

In:
01 Jul 2025

Royal Caribbean's first beach club will open in December and you can now make reservations.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island rendering

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will open in late December 2025, and we now know how much admission will cost.

This is the first of its kind offering by the cruise line, where Royal Caribbean passengers have exclusive access to a beach that is designed to be the ultimate beach day.

Unlike Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, admission costs extra.  There's a limited capacity, and it's meant to be an optional choice for cruisers who want to indulge in its offering.

The earliest day passes are available to book for all Nassau stops on or after Saturday, December 27, 2025.

How much Royal Beach Club Paradise Island costs

Party Cove aerial render

There are multiple admission types to get you into the beach club.

Royal Caribbean offers dynamic pricing for all of the beach club admission.  I found the pricing for Utopia of the Seas December 26, 2025 sailing to attempt to find exemplary prices to give a ballpark idea.  

Keep in mind this is the week of Christmas and New Years and it's on a brand new ship, which means these prices are likely on the high end of the spectrum.

Pools render of Paradise Island Beach Club

There are two types of day passes available, which includes purely admission into the club and access to the facilities, including chairs, umbrellas, food and drinks

DAY PASS WITH UNLIMITED OPEN BAR & DINING
Includes:
Starting from $169.99
Guests ages 21+
  • Full day access
  • Unlimited alcoholic beverages
  • Non-alcoholic beverages
  • All-day dining
  • Beach day amenities
    including beach chairs, umbrellas, showers, & more
  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi
  • Transportation
DAY PASS WITH NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS & DINING
Includes:
$129.99
Guests ages 13+
$109.99
Kids ages 4–12
(Ages 3 and under are free)
  • Full day access
  • Non-alcoholic beverages*
  • All-day dining
  • Beach day amenities
    including beach chairs, umbrellas, showers, & more
  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi
  • Transportation

*Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase à la carte with this day pass option.

  • Day Pass (Unlimited Open Bar & Dining): Starting from $169.99
  • Day Pass (Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks & dining): $129.99 guests 13+, $109.99 guests 4-12 (ages 3 and under are free)

All admissions include unlimited dining, unlimited beverages, free Wi-Fi, round-trip transportation and all general amenities.

Pool cabana

If you'd like to bring the whole family with friends, try a cabana.

Cabana rentals come in a few different sizes, with some of Royal Caribbean's biggest (and most expensive) cabana rentals ever.

  • Ultimate Family Cabana: $9,999.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 12 people
  • Royal Pool Cabana: $2,999.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 10 people
  • Royal Beach Cabana: $2,999.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 10 people
  • Beach Cabana: $2,199.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 8 people
Ultimate Family Cabana

The Ultimate Family Cabana gets you a cabana attendant, welcome amenity, dining area, private bathroom, private shower, private changing room, wet bar, reserved beach space, heated whirlpool, spiral slide, wooden swing, cozy hammock, loungers, suspended net lounger, frozen drink machine, TV, Bluetooth connection, charging outlets, lockable storage, and mini fridge.

Those looking to party all day might consider renting the party deck.

Party Deck

Located on the second floor of The Floating Flamingo (the world’s largest swim-up bar), it includes dedicated food & beverage service, lounge seating, mini fridge, cooler table, charging station, beach towels, ceiling fan, shoe cubbies and lockable storage.

For larger parties, you can reserve both east and west sides of the Party Deck.

Concept art for Royal Beach Club

For parties larger than 12 guests, entry to The Party Deck for up to 6 additional guests can be purchased separately. 

  • Party Deck: $4,999.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 12 people

Located at Party Cove, the Day Bed comes with day passes for up to 2 guests, complimentary dining, unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), free Wi-Fi, roundtrip transportation, and all general amenities.

Day bed
  • Day Bed: $649.99
    • Includes day passes for up to 2 people
  • Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $139.99 per adult, per day
  • Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Royal Beach Club Combo: $84.99 per adult, per day / $69.99 per child, per day
  • Deluxe Beverage Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $159.99 per adult, per day
  • Refreshment Package (Full Cruise) + Thrill & Chill Combo: $109.99 per adult, per day / $99.99 per child, per day
Refreshment bundle

If you want to experience the best of fun in the sun at both the beach club and Perfect Day at CocoCay, there's a bundle option.

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island Refreshment Package + Thrill & Chill Combo includes:

  • Royal Beach Club Day Pass
  • Thrill Waterpark Day Pass
  • Refreshment Package

It's priced per day of the cruise, rather than a flat fee like the other options. Royal Caribbean says the price of the bundle at checkout is up to 45% less than those products added to cart individually.

Ultimate Beach Day offering

Pool cabana

Looking over the prices, you should know that the concept is to offer the very best beach experience.

Royal Caribbean has two goals: offer an unparalleled beach experience and give passengers a high quality shore excursion choice in Nassau.

Located on 17 acres at the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, there's a mix of party and family time. 

Paradise Island pool

Regardless of which zone you end up spending most of your time, expect high energy throughout the club.

Royal Caribbean did a lot of research from its customers, and they want a day with music, drinks, and a fun vibe.  It's not meant to be a quiet spot, even if you're in Chill Beach.

"It's going to be one of the, I would argue, it will be the most amazing beach day in essence," said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's chief product innovation officer, earlier this year when he spoke to use about the big plans.

Pool rendering at Royal Beach Club

"Chill is not quiet… It is relaxed, but there is a little bit of energy built into what our guests expect out of Chill," Schneider said.

Family Beach is designed for what Royal Caribbean calls “relaxed energy” because it's a space where families can play, swim, and unwind together without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

Second club opening in Mexico

Cozumel beach club pool render

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is the first foray into the exclusive beach spot arena, and Royal Caribbean has plans for more.

A second club will open in Cozumel, Mexico in 2026.

Guests will find great views, access to the water, and likely something that builds upon the success and lessons of the beach club in Nassau.

Pool at Royal Beach Club Cozumel

Full details and a layout have not been revealed for the Cozumel beach club, but it's likely related to the fact the cruise line wants to take some feedback from the Bahamas club to then use in Mexico.

Plus, the Cozumel club has more space and a different perspective to build upon.

Both beach clubs are meant to outflank other cruise lines by offering superior shore excursions that are unrivaled.

Beach at Royal Beach Club

While private islands are common among the major cruise lines, beach clubs are new and extend the highly rated ship experience to land because it's managed by Royal Caribbean.

Offering passengers high guest satisfaction choices that inherently create memories is the core DNA for these new beach clubs, which the cruise line feels will translate into more bookings and higher revenue.

Royal Caribbean's first beach club is closer to completion, and "it will be the most amazing beach day"

In:
19 Jun 2025

Royal Caribbean is making significant progress towards opening its first ever beach club.

Beach club render with Utopia of the Seas

Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island is going to open in December 2025 in the heart of Nassau, Bahamas, and it will be a cruise line project never before attempted.

"It's going to be one of the, I would argue, it will be the most amazing beach day in essence," said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's chief product innovation officer.

Unlike Royal Caribbean's private islands, this is an all-inclusive, extra cost admission area.  That means only Royal Caribbean cruise ship passengers can visit, but they must pay to enter.

Nassau Beach Club construction

RoyalCaribbeanBlog reader David Sigmund shared photos of the progress being made at the construction site in The Bahamas.

The land it's being built on is located opposite of where ships dock in Nassau, and it's going to be a high-end beach day that aims to fix an issue cruise passengers have with Nassau.

For years, Nassau has been poorly rated by passengers and this beach club is an attempt to improve.

Beach club construction progress

"The brand of Nassau's worn down, we've been very blunt with everybody in Nassau and the Bahamas and the government and the media," explained Mr. Schneider.

Royal Caribbean believes with the combination of this new beach project, a massive revitalization of the Port of Nassau, and improvements downtown.

Nassau Beach club render

The beach club is a massive joint venture with the people of The Bahamas, where nearly every aspect of the operation of the club will be done by Bahamians.

"Every aspect of the operation will be done by a Bahamian operator. There isn't any aspect that we're reserving, with the exception of things like corporate cybersecurity," he said.

Relying on guest research, the plan is to open a three zone layout of fun in the sun.

  • Chill Beach
  • Party Cove
  • Family Beach
Royal beach Club construction

The largest area will be Chill Beach, while Family Beach is perfect for those with children.  Lastly, Party Cove infuses music and celebration into the fun.

To get to the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, guests hop on a short water taxi from the pier.

There are two arrival areas to make it easier to get to either end, "This property is so long, we don’t want you to have to walk the length of it back and forth."

Pool rendering at Royal Beach Club

At Party Cove, there is going to be the world's largest swim-up bar.  It has 110 seats, eclipsing the current record holder in Dayton, Ohio.

The Floating Flamingo is the name of the giant structure where partying is going be centralized, "we'll end up being an engineering marvel that you will see as a beacon throughout much everywhere in Nassau."

The top floor of the bar will be where the DJ sits, with a VIP wing on both sides.

Beach club construction progress

Unlike the other two zones, Party Cove has no beach.  The fun here is all held poolside.

Family Beach is all about balancing kid-friendly fun with grown-up comforts.

At the heart of Family Beach is a large, zero-entry pool, "The family pool [is] zero entry on both sides with, of course, a beautiful swim up bar right in the heart of it," said Mr. Schneider.

The pool is surrounded by cabanas, lounge chairs, shaded seating, and nearby bathrooms. And the layout has been carefully planned so families don’t have to walk far to get from the beach to the pool or from the food huts to their chairs. 

Family area rendering

Family Beach will feature quick-service dining spots. Royal Caribbean plans to serve a 50/50 mix of American classics and Bahamian-inspired food. While there won’t be a full sit-down restaurant in this area.

In keeping with the local theme, Bahamian artists will contribute custom work throughout the club—including murals, sculptures, and building facades. “We had about 75 artists raise their hand and submit briefs,” Schneider said. “There are about 15 to 25 different places where you’ll see Bahamian-created art throughout the site.”

All in all, Family Beach is designed for what Royal Caribbean calls “relaxed energy” because it's a space where families can play, swim, and unwind together without sacrificing convenience or comfort.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island construction

At Chill Beach, you'll find a laid back area for anyone that wants to kick back in a tropical setting. It's about relaxed energy, offering an alternative to Party Cove.

"Chill is not quiet… It is relaxed, but there is a little bit of energy built into what our guests expect out of Chill," Schneider said.

It's located on the east side of the property, and if you disembark the ferry at Chill Beach, the view will stand out immediately. 

Beach club construction progress

"You walk from a plaza, you see amazing views, you see great beach," Schneider explained. The beach here has been reshaped to create a gentler slope, improving both safety and comfort for lounging and swimming.

Central to Chill Beach is a long, beautifully designed pool with built-in seating, loungers, and a full swim-up bar—a must-have, according to Schneider. "Every pool has a swim-up bar. Our brand DNA changed when I took this job," he said.

Nassau Beach Club construction

Architecturally, the zone is designed to blend with the surroundings. "You will never find a concrete wall," he emphasized. "You will find Bahamian stone walls everywhere… we are going to great lengths to make sure that this feels like it’s always been part of the fabric and DNA."

Royal Caribbean reveals massive plans for Perfect Day Mexico and beach destinations

In:
14 May 2025

Royal Caribbean revealed what it has planned for its private destination push that is going to go well beyond what any cruise line has ever dreamed.

Closer look at Perfect Day Mexico

Royal Caribbean is poised to open four different projects over the next few years, each with its own way to give vacationers exactly what they want: an idyllic day in the sun, surf, and shore.

The developments crisscross the Caribbean, and even extend to the Pacific.  It's all part of Royal Caribbean's master plan to offer the very best destinations that are second to none.

At an event in New York, the cruise line showcased what it has planned at each of its private beaches, along with opening dates and what we can expect.

Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island

Nassau Beach club render
  • Opens: December 2025
  • Capacity: 4,000 guests
  • Paid, All-Inclusive

The first of these new beaches to open will be the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island, located in Nassau, Bahamas.

Scheduled to open in December 2025, the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island is an all-inclusive, beach club you'll need to pay to access.

It's like a super shore excursion that Royal Caribbean curates to cater to exactly what its passengers want: a high-end beach day experience with a focus on local authenticity and upscale amenities.

Royal Beach Club concept art

Royal Caribbean relied on extensive guest research and feedback to come up with the experience.

Guests will be transported via custom-built water taxis that depart from the port area, with two arrival points to make getting where you want to go easy.

Royal Caribbean says "bookings become available in just a few short weeks."

There are going to be three zones, each with a different approach to enjoy your time.

Chill Beach

Rendering of the new beach club

You'll find both a pool and a beach here, and it's meant to be the most relaxing area of the club. 

There is a long pool with a swim-up bar (in fact, every pool has a swim up bar within the club), and plenty of space to enjoy quiet, ambient Caribbean music.

Party Cove

Concept art for Royal Beach Club

Party Cove is going to be the spot to go to if you want a pool party vibe.

You'll find the world's largest swim-up bar, known as "the Floating Flamingo". It features a dedicated DJ area, and VIP “party wings.”

It's two stories with the DJ at the center of it at the top level. There's going to be integrated compressed air to elevate the party atmosphere.

Party Cove rendering

The party wings allow guests to actually rent the entire wing for your group, similar to how you might rent a cabana elsewhere.

The pool is actually broken up into three areas, with the largest swim up bar having over 100 seats.

Family Beach

Beach club rendering

Catering to guests with kids, Family Beach will have a zero-entry pool and this is really the focus of this zone. 

It's a long and shallow pool for families to enjoy together, but there's a swim-up bar here too.

Ultimate Family Cabana render

This is also where you'll find the debut of the first-ever land-based Ultimate Family Cabana, which promises an over-the-top experience for families.

It has equal access to beach and pool, and the cabana is going to have just about everything you'd want for a splurged up kind of day.

Your own slide, dining area, lounge space, and more.

Partnership with The Bahamas

Paradise Island pool

The operation will be run in partnership with Bahamian stakeholders (under a 51/49 joint venture), ensuring that the service and food authentically reflect local culture.

You'll find Bahamian art, architecture, and locally-sourced food seamlessly blending into the guest experience.

A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability through initiatives such as zero waste to landfill practices and advanced wastewater recycling systems.

Perfect Day Mexico

Wide angle render of Perfect Day Mexico
  • Opens September 2027
  • Included, with multiple premium upgrades available

Royal Caribbean's biggest land project ever will open with Perfect Day Mexico.

It's located in what's now Costa Maya, Mexico. When Royal Caribbean is done, the old Costa Maya and region will be uplifted and redeveloped with significant investment in the community and the amenities throughout.

Costa Maya in 2024

The cruise line bought the port and surrounding land, and it's going to be an epic exclusive for Royal Caribbean passengers  that builds upon the success they've had with Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Admission is included in your cruise fare, but there are opportunities to spend on extras like cabanas, waterpark and excursions.

When passengers get off the ship, they have the choice of entering Perfect Day Mexico or walking to the nearby Transportation and Tourist Center to pick up a shore excursion or other form of travel out.

The first itineraries you can book that will feature a visit to Perfect Day Mexico will become available this fall.

There will be five key zones to explore:

Fiesta Plaza

Perfect Day Mexico bridge

This is where you'll enter Perfect Day Mexico, and it's decked out in bold, colorful Mexican décor, and acts as the social hub and introduction to the destination.

You'll notice quickly the world’s largest sombrero bar and vibrant street-style signage.

It's an engineering marvel, and started out as an idea to build the world's largest sombrero, but Royal Caribbean decided to turn it into a bar.

Arrivals

You can walk into Perfect Day Mexico on foot, or opt to take one of the trajineras, which are colorful, flat-bottomed boats that you'd find in the canals of Mexico City. 

The river that runs through the entrance helps set the scene, and Royal Caribbean thought offering boat rides would be a really fun way to move people.

Chill Beach

This is the primary and quite large beach area guests that spans the shoreline. The entire area is almost 2 miles in length.

This is where you'll go for a beautiful and relaxing beach day, complete with lounge-friendly areas with palm-lined shorelines.

Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico.

Royal Caribbean will also offer cabanas to rent, including ones that have little plunge pools attached to them. There will be land cabanas, water cabanas, and plunge cabanas.

Costa Beach Club (extra cost)

Costa Beach Club

Based on the Coco Beach Club, this will be the upscale beach club experience with elevated dining, exclusive pools, and luxury cabanas.

You'll find white sand beaches, a heated infinity pool, and dedicated restaurant.

There are cabanas to rent here as well, which come with a dedicated pool.

El Hideaway (extra cost)

El Hideaway render

The adults-only area is an inland pool zone with massive party pools, swim-up bars, and DJ entertainment.

Encompassing eight acres, it has a pool that is going to be 50,000ft², whereas the Hideaway Beach pool today is only 17,000ft².

Either side will have the "chill" zones, while the center will be all about the party atmosphere.

Fun fact: it will be home to the world's largest bottle of tequila!

You'll find here the Party Cabana, which can handle up to 20 people. It has its own dedicated bathroom, its own bar, and it'll have its own bartender.

Splash Cove

Splashpad

A new concept, Splash Cove is 30 acres in size. It has a pool that is a little over three times bigger than the Oasis Lagoon.

This entire neighborhood will be included in your cruise fare.

Surrounding the pool will be the world's longest lazy and crazy river.

Pool

The lazy river will be between a 45 and 60 minute journey, but it has multiple stops along the way where you can tie up your raft at a bar to take a "break".

There will be three of these bars, known as "Tubes and Tequila", and you'll clip your tube to the bar for a stop.

Lazy river

There will also be the largest Splashaway Bay for kids, along with more seating than you'd find at the CocoCay version.

Speaking of young kids, there will be a bubble up activity, which is describe as an experience that inflates with water jets coming off of it, and then it deflates and kids climb up it and fall down. It's a super fun young kid thing

Loco Waterpark (extra cost)

Water slide tower at Perfect Day Mexico

Spanning 15 acres, it's three times the size of Thrill Waterpark, and will have 31 slides across five towers.

One big theme is you'll find a lot of raft slides, as they resonate the most with Royal Caribbean's guests. There will still be drop slides or body slides, but many more raft slides.

You'll find the tallest water park in the Americas, eclipsing the one in Brazil that's at 160ft.

Sombrero Tower view at Perfect Day Mexico

There's a Jaguar head tower (170ft tall), along with Sombrero Tower (100ft tall), and the launch tower

The launch tower has hydro launches and drop slides. These are the ones that fly you through the air and then drop you down. 

Royal Caribbean has an idea to put a bar near the launch tower so guests can have a drink and watch people flying through the air and give them ratings, like an Olympic competition.

Mega slides

There's a wave pool that will be about twice the size of the one on CocoCay.

Dining in Perfect Day Mexico

Royal Caribbean will have 12 regionally inspired dining options throughout the resort.  There will be sit-down restaurants, quick service entries, and almost all the food will be included in your cruise fare.

There are also 24 bars spread across Perfect Day Mexico, including six swim-up bars.

Royal Beach Club Cozumel

Royal Beach Club Cozumel aerial render
  • Opens: December 2026
  • Paid, All-Inclusive

The second beach club will be in Cozumel, and its focus is offering guests a day filled with fun centered around the pool, beach, sun, food and culture.

Pool at Royal Beach Club Cozumel

It'll be located where Playa Mia beach resort is currently, as Royal Caribbean will take it over. They've also acquired the properties on both sides of Playa Mia.  

The last day of Playa Mia's operations is May 20th, and then construction will begin. Just like Costa Maya, Royal Caribbean will demolish everything that existed there before to introduce their own vision.

It's about a ten minute drive south from where Royal Caribbean docks its ships.

Cozumel beach club pool render

There are 5 main areas: Main pool, North Beach, The Mercato, South Village, and South Beach.

Just like the beach club in Nassau, Royal Caribbean wants it to offer three vibes: chill, family and party. It's a work in progress as to how they're going to achieve it here, but they have a few ideas.

As you arrive, you'll be surrounded by lush landscaping. As you walk in, you'll start to see the vibrancy of Mexico with art and amazing views ahead of you.

Food hall in Beach Club

There will be a pool with a swim-up bar, along with a side that's toes in the sand that stretches over to the beach.

There'll be in water music experience, but it remains to be seen if it's a DJ or not.

At the Mercato, you'll find the central food experience. Royal Caribbean wants to offer a 50/50 blend of local inspired classics, as well as American food.

So you'll find tacos, fresh guacamole, fresh salsa, fresh tortillas, margaritas, quesadilla, tortas and churros. But you'll also have a chicken sandwich, burger, fries, etc.

Lelepa

Lelepa aerial
  • Opens: Early 2027
  • Included

Located in Vanuatu, Royal Caribbean has its first private destination outside of North America with the Lelepa. This isn't a beach club, but not a Perfect Day either.  It's a different kind of product that doesn't fit into the other destinations mold.

It's not very far from Port Vila, and Royal Caribbean has essentially leased the entire northern part of the island

Ships will tender here, as there will be no pier.

Beach render in Lelepa

One key difference is Lelepa will have no thrill factor.  Instead, they've doubled down on the chill, which is described as "gorgeous."

The team is taking the essence of the beach club product, but making it inclusive in the cruise fare.

There will be a number of villages to break up the layout of Lelepa:

  • Welcome Village
  • Beach villages
Arrival bar in Lelepa render

When you arrive, you'll see a local retail village and a welcome bar.

The private beach flanks both sides of the island, with a walkway in-between. Each side has beaches, restaurants, sports activities, and playgrounds.

They're also working on an adults-only area that doesn't cost extra. It's essentially a quieter, unmanaged area away from everything else for adults.

Lelepa floating bar

Something else being added are walking trails throughout the property, as part of a curated nature trail.

Photos show new Bahamas beach club is inching closer to completion

In:
15 Feb 2025

Royal Caribbean's first ever beach club is actively moving forward in its construction.

Beach club construction progress

Located in Nassau, Bahamas, the cruise line is working to open something it's never done before with a pure land operation that goes beyond a private island experience.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will open in December 2025 and is sort of like Royal Caribbean's owned and operated shore excursion available exclusively for its customers.

The cruise line doesn't share many construction updates, so we took our own photos.

We have a new update on how progress is going on the ground, thanks to photos taken of the construction site on February 15.

With the grounds cleared of debris and previous buildings, active construction is underway to lay the foundations of the beach club's structures.

Construction site

According to Royal Caribbean, site construction began in September 2024 after the official ground breaking in April.

The beach club is located on a 17-acre piece of land on the western end of Paradise Island near Nassau.  It's basically across from where all the cruise ships dock in Nassau.

Guests can get to the beach club via a new water taxi system that Royal Caribbean is also working on, which departs from the pier.

Construction progress at Beach Club

Admission is all-inclusive, which is another first for Royal Caribbean to offer such an amenity.

A day pass will include:

  • Access to all amenities
  • Water taxi ride between pier and beach club
  • All food and beverage, including alcohol
  • Beach chairs
  • Umbrellas
Party Cove aerial render

The beach club has beaches and pools, three swim-up bars, seven beach bars, and more than 40 cabanas.

There are going to be different zones to encapsulate the vibe they want to provide passengers.

Party Cove, Family Beach, and Chill Beach all offer a different take on how to spend your day.

Construction work

According to Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley, approximately 1 million guests are expected to go into the Beach Club in the first full year of operation.

Mr. Bayley also said tickets will go on sale sometime in April 2025.

About 2,000 people will be able to purchase a pass each day. 

No word yet on how much it will cost to go in, but day passes to other Nassau resorts aren't cheap.

Construction aerial

The nearby Atlantis resort charges $255 for adults to use its Aquaventure waterpark.

Margaritaville Beach Resort charges $125-145 per adult, and Baha Mar resort has a $160 admission cost for its waterpark. 

None of those day passes are all-inclusive.

Construction area

Royal Caribbean wants to offer something no other cruise line can compete with, and not just in Nassau.

All cruise lines have struggled for years with low guest satisfaction rates in Nassau because of a lack of things to do its customers want.

Building a beach club for cruise passengers by the cruise line is a way Royal Caribbean hopes to solve that problem.

Pool and beach views in artist rendering

Moreover, their strategy is to combine a beach club day with a day at its award winning private island in nearby Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The idea is to offer visits to places no other land resort or cruise line can possibly top.

Behind Royal Caribbean's Next Big Bet: Private Islands and Beach Clubs

In:
28 Jan 2025

By 2027, almost every Caribbean cruise will visit one of Royal Caribbean's beach clubs or private islands.

Beach club render with Utopia of the Seas

In fact, Royal Caribbean said 90% of Caribbean passengers will visit one of their private destinations in 2027.

The company plans to grow its portfolio of private destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas. The expansion will kick off with the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025. Additionally, a second private beach club in Cozumel, Mexico, is slated to open sometime in 2026. 

That's not all, either. Last year, Royal Caribbean Group announced Perfect Day Mexico in Costa Maya to compliment the wildly popular Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. 

"With the introduction of Star of the Seas and Celebrity Xcel in the second half of the year, we continue to differentiate in the Caribbean market with our incredible ships and private destinations driving very strong performance," said Naftali Holtz, Royal Caribbean Group's Chief Financial Officer, during RCG's Q4 earnings call on Tuesday, January 28.

CocoCay

"Over 70% of guests on these itineraries sailing with the Royal Caribbean Brand will visit a private destination this year, and that percentage will increase to 90% in 2027."

Other lines simply can't match Royal Caribbean's private island experience and innovative ships

People in a hot tub

It's hard to believe that it has been over one year since Icon of the Seas welcomed her first paying guests onboard. That's right: Icon officially set sail on her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024. 

Icon of the Seas redefined the average family cruise with amenities like the Category 6 Waterpark, AquaDome, Surfside Neighborhood, and more. 

Currently, Icon sails exclusively from Miami, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay weekly. This means that once the private destinations in Mexico are complete, guests will have three exclusive destinations to choose from on their cruise vacations. 

Star of the Seas

Star of the Seas will follow in Icon's footsteps, making her debut later this year and further expanding Royal Caribbean's fleet of innovative ships sailing to a range of private islands and beach clubs. 

"The greatest weekend in the history of cruising"

Pool deck on Utopia of the Seas

Additionally, Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas takes a unique approach to cruising, offering short voyages on a brand-new ship to Nassau and CocoCay. 

In essence, it's designed to draw in new cruisers by showcasing the best of what Royal Caribbean has to offer, whether immersive dining experiences or the company's private island. 

When the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opens in December, Utopia's experience will be even more valuable because guests will finally have a new way to explore Nassau, a less-than-desirable destination that ranks in the bottom 10% of cruise ports. 

"It's going to be a great guest experience. [Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is] also incredibly complimentary with CocoCay because we'll have a lot of short product that goes to Perfect Day on one day, and the next day it'll be in the beach club, so it's like the greatest weekend in the history of cruising," said Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley during RCG's Q4 earnings call. 

Celebrity Cruises adding to the hype

Wonder-Celebrity-Reflection-Docked-CocoCay-2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay's $250 million renovation has proved to be successful. The demand for the private island is so high that RCG began to deploy Celebrity ships to CocoCay. 

Traditionally, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity attract different clientele, with Celebrity focused on providing an upscale experience. In comparison, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are packed with jaw-dropping amenities like FlowRider surf simulators, record-breaking waterparks, and more. 

With Celebrity now calling at CocoCay, guests who want to enjoy the premium experience while also visiting the award-winning private island can do so. 

Tickets for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island go on sale in April

Pools render of Paradise Island Beach Club

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is one of the most anticipated additions to Royal Caribbean's portfolio. Details about the new experience have been revealed over the past few months; however, during the Q4 earnings call, Bayley said guests can expect tickets to finally go on sale in April. 

"We'll be launching the product into the market, opening for sale in April, so we'll be able to talk about our pricing in about two months time," he remarked. 

Though the pricing hasn't been revealed yet, we do know that the beach club is all-inclusive, meaning that everything from the first water taxi ride to food and drinks is included. Other amenities include at least two food halls, three Snack Shack locations, a zero-entry pool, the world's largest swim-up bar, and plenty of beach space. 

Family area rendering

Bailey added, "Our expectation is in the first full year of the operation of the beach club, we'll have approximately 1 million guests going into the beach club for the experience." Compartively, Royal Caribbean expects around 3.5 million passengers to visit CocoCay in 2025. 

Perfect Day Mexico is expected to be a smash hit

Perfect Day Mexico teaser

Perfect Day Mexico and the Royal Beach Club Cozumel are expected to become a major draw for passengers cruising from Galveston, Texas. 

The combination of easy access and new amenities will expand Royal's presence in the Western Caribbean even further, with Royal Caribbean thinking that the passenger volume will eventually surpass CocoCay! 

"We think that, ultimately, the volume that we will take to Perfect Day Mexico will far exceed what we're taking into CocoCay," said Bayley. 

Royal Caribbean just announced the opening date for its dreamy all-inclusive Bahamas beach club

In:
12 Dec 2024

When Royal Caribbean opens its first beach club experience, it will be unlike anything they've offered to date.

Royal Beach Club Nassau opening in 2025

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is currently under construction and will be a new kind of experience blending water access, service, and Bahamian flare.

The big Royal Caribbean announcement today was revealing that admission will be an all-inclusive pass with an opening date of December 2025.

Passes and cabana rentals will go on sale starting in the spring of 2025.

Located on 17 acres at the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, guests will have the choice of spending their day enjoying the pools, beaches, live music, island-style barbecues and more.

What a day pass includes

Party Cove aerial render

Unlike a private island day, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island requires an extra cost day pass to get in. We first reported in April 2023 that the beach club would be all-inclusive, and that's so that it can be "the ultimate beach day," according to Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider.

A day pass will include:

  • Access to all amenities
  • Water taxi ride between pier and beach club
  • All food and beverage, including alcohol
  • Beach chairs
  • Umbrellas
Royal beach Club water taxi

To access the beach club, you'll need to disembark your cruise ship and walk to the ferry area within the newly revamped Nassau cruise port.

From there, you can take one of the new water taxis to get you to the beach club.

Ultimate Family Cabana render

The beach club has beaches and pools, three swim-up bars, seven beach bars, more than 40 cabanas – including the one-of-a-kind
Ultimate Family Cabana with personal attendant service – and more.

One thing you won't find at the beach club are big thrills. 

Unlike the cruise line's private island elsewhere in The Bahamas, there's no waterpark and according to Mr. Schneider, that's because there really isn't space for it and those wanting thrills can find it elsewhere in Nassau.

Royal Caribbean did not share how much admission will cost and/or the cabana rentals.

What you can do at the beach club

Beach club rendering

There are three zones to choose from when you arrive at the Royal Beach Club.

Party Cove

Party Cove rendering

If you prefer more dancing, singing, and celebrating as part of your beach day, head to Party Cove.

Royal Caribbean is building the world’s largest swim-up bar, called The Floating Flamingo. This is where you'll find a DJ playing lots of music all day long.

You'll also find a VIP space within Party Cove, where you can get personal poolside service and incredible views.

Family Beach

Family pool render

Royal Caribbean is a family cruise line, and the beach club will be an extension of that by offering an entire zone for families to enjoy.

Family Beach is near the The Shallow End zero-entry pool.

You'll also find beach games of all kinds from tug-of-war to paddle ball in this area.

Ultimate Family Cabana render

This is also where Royal Caribbean will offer its Ultimate Family Cabana, which is a brand new elevated concept.

While beach cabanas to rent are not a new concept for Royal Caribbean, but this one will have two levels and include a thrilling slide, dedicated whirlpool, frozen drink machine and more.

Chill Beach

Poolside rendering beach club

Borrowing the name from Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Beach Club will have the perfect area to relax and enjoy a day in The Bahamas.

There's the choice of The Deep End pool, or Chill Beach.

This is also where you can find shopping opportunities a the local artisan huts that are staffed by Bahamians. Similarly, there are areas to grab a bite to eat and enjoy food such as grilled shrimp skewers or fire engine fritters.

Exclusive retreat

Rendering of the new beach club

If the new beach club sounds different, it's because it is.

Cruise lines have traditionally offered either a private island beach day or sold shore excursions operated by third parties. Nothing on this scale has been attempted before.

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley thinks this will be appeal to just about everyone, "The Royal Beach Club Collection is designed for every type of family and vacationer to get everything they want out of their ideal beach day – no matter the vibe they’re looking for."

Beach render

That's important because Royal Caribbean is relying on these beach clubs to be the cornerstone of its bold strategy to attract more new cruisers than ever before.

In short, Royal Caribbean wants to offer more than any other cruise line, and only to its customers.

Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty talked about the importance of exclusivity during the company's first quarter earnings call this year, "One of the incredible things that we’re seeing out of destinations like Perfect Day — and we’ll see this in the Royal Beach Club in Nassau — is how it’s drawing in new-to-cruise (passengers) and millennials."

"A one of a kind, unique project"

Pools render of Paradise Island Beach Club

Helping bring this vision to life is Philip Simon, President of Royal Caribbean Group Bahamas.

"To me, this is such a one of a kind, unique project," he said in an exclusive interview with Royal Caribbean Blog.

From day one, Royal Caribbean has designed this beach club to be a partnership with the people of The Bahamas. There's a revenue sharing agreement that gives up to 49% equity. New jobs have been created, and there will be a new tourism levy that will fund reinvesting in the local community. 

Pol bar beach render

"I've never seen anything like it, and I'm not just saying that to kind of pump ourselves up."

"We call it a unicorn type of partnership that we're very proud of."

Mr. Simon believes the final product will show off just how economically and environmentally beneficial the new club will be. 

Beach club construction progress

Royal Caribbean faced public backlash initially when the deal was announced, with critics concerned about the impact developing this land would have.

Mr. Simon said his team has helped improve the 17-acre site, removing derelict buildings, and improving the landscaping. Plus, there are strict environmental policies in place.

In fact, he wants to invite those detractors to see it for themselves, "You will have a product within the heart of downtown Nassau that is just going to be so amazing. So I look forward to next year, and I look forward to sending invites to everybody."

More beach clubs coming soon

Cozumel beach club

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is the first beach club, but there are two more coming as well.

There are two more beach clubs set to open in the next few years.

The next beach club to open will be in Cozumel, Mexico when Royal Beach Club Cozumel begins operations. That will open sometime in 2026.

Cozumel beach club render

The exact site has not been shared, but it will be somewhere on the west coast of Cozumel, and just like Nassau, the exclusive club will combine great views, beaches, pools, and food.

A third beach club will be on the island of Vanuatu in the South Pacific. No name or details have been shared, but it could open in 2026 or 2027.

Royal Caribbean's new beach club in The Bahamas is a kind of super shore excursion. What their plans reveal

In:
03 Dec 2024

Opening in 2025 is Royal Caribbean's first ever beach club, and it's going to take your beach day to a new level.

Rendering of the new beach club

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is going to open in late 2025, and it's being built on a 17-acre site that is just about the most prime real estate in all of Nassau.

The plan is simple, but the promise is enormous. Offer an unfiltered beach day experience that hits every important factor for any tourist, while making it an unforgettable experience exclusively for Royal Caribbean cruisers only.

While Royal Caribbean has built private island experiences, it's never tried a limited-capacity and extra cost beach offering.  It's a lot like building its own shore excursion that is designed, built, and operated with the cruise line at the helm.

Royal Beach Club master plan

The proposed site masterplan is available online, and it shows a variety of experiences tourists can expect. It's clear they want to offer a little of everything, so no matter how much chill, swim, beach, pool, or adventure you want, there's going to be something for you.

There will be two different beaches

Nassau beaches

The heart of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is a beach day experience, and you'll find two different spots to enjoy the beautiful Bahamian waters.

Located on both ends of the property, you'll find a sprawling beach that features chairs and umbrellas, along with upgraded spots for your day.

Each beach faces the north shore, so it's nothing but the open ocean views in front of you.

Beach render

There are beach cabanas, hammocks, and bungalows available. Of course, the beach bar is not very far away either.

You'll also find a snack shack at each beach when you need something a bite to eat.

Three pools for another lounge choice

Pools sitemap

A tropical getaway can include a dip in the ocean or pool, and there are three different pools to choose from.

Each pool has a swim-up bar, and they're big too. This not only spreads people out, but each has its own vibe.  One pool has a DJ and swim-up bar combo, similar to the Hideaway Beach experience at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Pools render of Paradise Island Beach Club

Another pool flanks the kids' water play area, and the other pool is located towards the end of the property.

There are also cabanas you can rent near the pools, so you don't have to go far from the fun.

New restaurants

Pol bar beach render

Food is a big draw for any cruise experience, and there will be four different places to eat.

Royal Caribbean hasn't said what exactly the food offerings will be, but there will be "four island-style spots for quick bites and local fare."

One thing is for certain, Royal Caribbean wants to lean into the Bahamian culture as much as they can, so there will be a good mix of familiar and local options.

Artisan market

Bahamas Flag

The sitemap shows there will be shopping opportunities that tie into the people of Nassau.

The artisan huts are in the center of the property, and it's an opportunity to highlight local crafts and businesses.

Fixing a problem cruisers have had for decades

Royal Beach Club in Nassau

A major reason Royal Caribbean is building its first beach club is to address a need its customers have told them for a long time.

Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ports, with Royal Caribbean pulling in around one million visitors each year. However, it ranks poorly among cruise ship guest surveys.

According to Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley, cruise ship passengers have, "come here many times before and there’s nothing new, fresh or innovative."

"There needs to be more product, more experience, more uniqueness, more options."

Paradise Island pool

The result is a beach club that the cruise line thinks will solve problems across the board. It will give tourists the exact beach day experience they want, based on in-depth research.  That will improve the perception cruisers have of Nassau too.

For The Bahamas, they get a piece of the action as well. Royal Caribbean is creating an unique public-private partnership in which Bahamians will own up to 49% equity.

Individual Bahamians will have the opportunity to buy equity in the beach club and benefit from the profits. That's unheard of with a tourist beach day operation.  Certainly no hotel resorts around Paradise Island are offering that opportunity.

On top of all of that, 1% of gross revenue of the beach club will be invested in a new fund to develop other attractions around The Bahamas.

The big question for cruisers is the cost

beach club render

If looking at the sitemap gets you excited, you're probably equally interested to know how much it will cost you to get in.

Royal Caribbean hasn't said anything about prices yet, and haven't put admission on sale yet. 

Almost certainly the admission cost will have variable pricing, which means the price will fluctuate based on which ship is in port and demand. That assumption is based on the fact that's how Royal Caribbean charges for all of its extra cost add-ons at its private islands.

The projected opening date is sometime between October - December 2025, according to a comment Mr. Bayley made recently.

Royal Caribbean’s new Bahamas Beach Club looks ready to start building

In:
05 Oct 2024

We're about a year away from the potential opening of Royal Caribbean's first ever beach club.

Royal Beach Club concept art

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is an ambitious new project that will introduce a pay-to-play option for cruise ship passengers in the heart of Nassau, Bahamas.

While visiting Nassau on Saturday, construction progress shows land that's been cleared of the old buildings and looks to be in the prep stages for construction to begin.

Royal Caribbean doesn't provide construction updates with any regularity, but work has been underway for months to get the project moving.

Future Beach Club area in May 2024

Beach club construction progress

Future Beach Club area in September 2024

The cleared ground is prepared for what will be multiple structures that make up the beach club.

Although no actual building has begun, there's not much left to impede that progress.

Beach club construction progress

The narrow strip of land is located near where the cruise ships dock in Nassau, and once complete, will be Royal Caribbean's first beach club that will be open exclusively to its customers.

Royal Beach Club in Nassau

It's a 17 acre site that will cost extra to access, and be limited to Royal Caribbean cruise ship passengers.

There is no official opening date, but Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley said last month he expects the opening to occur between October-December 2025.

Beach club construction progress
Beach club construction progress
Beach club construction progress

One of the goals of the beach club is to address a need among passengers who consistently rank Nassau poorly.

The extra-cost, exclusive club will offer access to three pools with swim-up bars, live music, two beaches, and four restaurants.

Additionally, the club will have three distinct zones: a family zone, a party zone, and a chill zone.

Pool and beach views in artist rendering

In fact, Mr. Bayley confirmed the beach club will have the largest swim up bar in the world.

"Next year we'll be opening the Royal Beach Club in the Bahamas," Mr. Bayley said at a meeting with members of the press on Utopia of the Seas. "We're kind of hoping we're going to have the largest swim up bar in the world. Can you imagine that?"

About 2,000 people will be able to purchase a pass each day. No word yet on how much admission will cost.

Family area rendering

After the beach club in Nassau, Royal Caribbean will open a second beach club in Cozumel.

The goal is to offer something no other cruise line can match, with a series of unparalleled experiences around the Caribbean.

Paradise Island Beach pool render

Royal Caribbean announced that cruisers who visit the private club "will be welcomed by local architecture that complements the exceptional views of The Bahamas’ turquoise-blue waters and white sand beaches, along with experiences that feature Bahamian fare, island-style barbecues, live music, and local artisans."

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