Royal Caribbean International, one of the world’s largest and most popular cruise line, is moving ahead with this 17-acre destination experience coming to the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, will combine the island’s striking beaches with the cruise line’s signature experiences to create the ultimate beach day – The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island.

Overall, the new venture will generate hundreds of jobs across its construction and long-term operation.

“The Bahamas has been a phenomenal partner since the very start, when they became our first port of call more than 50 years ago,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “As we continue to bring millions of visitors to experience attractions throughout Nassau each year, The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island is the next bold adventure in Royal Caribbean’s commitment to both increasing tourism in The Bahamas and delivering memorable vacations to our guests.”

Alongside private cabanas, stunning pools and more, the vibrant Bahamian spirit and culture will come to life throughout the world-class destination experience. Vacationers 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.

The beach club will be made up of 13 acres of land owned by the cruise line and 4 acres of Crown Land. The Crown Land will be contributed as equity in the new venture to ensure a share of the profits return to the government and the Bahamian people in a first-of-its-kind agreement in The Bahamas. This, in addition to a new tourism levy, will go into reinvesting in the local community. The collaboration between the government, the community and Royal Caribbean will continue as the development moves through the stages of planning and completion.

Then in 2026 Royal Caribbean is opening a new beach club experience in Cozumel, Mexico. This fantastic new destination will feature stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of pools for every taste. As part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Collection, the new experience in Cozumel will include swim-up bars, dedicated pools for families, private cabanas, snorkelling, kayaking and beautiful beaches. A variety of dining spots will also be available, including a restaurant, bar and lounge with views, as well as a street market and hands-on experiences like tequila tastings and cooking classes. 

For now Royal Caribbean has A perfect day at CocoCay and Labadee but there is no opening date yet for the destination in Haiti. I have been there once and the water was nice but we didn’t find the beach as pretty as CocoCay or as much to do there, it’s a relaxed chill place for sure.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporally suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” the company said in a prepared statement. “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team,” Royal Caribbean added.

This private bay and port of call is worth a trip if you’re on a cruise that includes Labadee on its itinerary. It’s known for its beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, lively artisanal market, and Dragon’s Breath—the world’s longest over-water zipline. It’s one of the most popular attractions here, so get there early to avoid the lines. There are also plenty of water activities and tours available like fishing charters, luxury sailboat trips, snorkeling excursions, and catamaran cruises. Maximize your day by hopping on the free tram to get around.

Preparing for the Royal Caribbean’s Dragon’s Tail Coaster

With a confirmed reservation, you have to check-in and sign a waiver at the base of the coaster with the staff. Once you have reviewed and signed all of the documentation, it is on to the loading platform.

Here, you will watch a brief introductory and safety video. This provides an overview of how to control the carts, as well as the rules regarding spacing and the various signals used. There is also a communal cubby for guests to store any belongings during the ride. Take a ride on the wild side! Roar down the side of the mountain on a thrilling alpine coaster ride through a series of dips, waves and curves. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Labadee from the beach on Santa Maria’s lookout mountain as you reach 680 feet. Then, swoosh down 30 miles per hour racing through 360-degree turns.

Important details and advisements

• Please enjoy at your leisure between start and end times.
• Minimum age to be a single rider on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster is 12 years.
• Passengers between the ages of 5 and 15 may only ride with their parent/guardian or a responsible adult 18 years or older.
• Total ride time is approximately 3-5 minutes.
• Purchase a ticket and take a person along in your cart for free!
• Coaster Staff reserves the right to adjust maximum weight requirements due to current weather conditions at any time before or during the tour.
• Minimum height to ride alone is 54 inches.
• Minimum height to be a passenger is 38 inches.
• Drivers must have full use of both arms. Ability to operate brakes must be demonstrated successfully to take part.
• All minors must be accompanied onto the island and have the parent or legal Guardian complete the waiver form.
• Under 16 years of age must be accompanied by parent, legal guardian or a responsible adult 18 years or older.
• Pregnant guests should not participate.
• Maximum Combined Weight 375 lbs per cart.
• Long hair must be in a bun. Hair cannot be in a ponytail or loose.
• No loose fluttering clothing.
• This tour is not recommended for guests with pre-existing medical conditions such as cardiac, respiratory, or orthopedic conditions, including joint injuries or disease, or any other serious medical condition. Guests must consider their physical fitness level and medical history when determining whether this tour is appropriate. Guests who have concerns must consult with their personal physician before engaging in any activity that may be strenuous for them, particularly those involving water based activities. Guests should consider their swimming ability when selecting tours involving water based activities.
• Guests participating in these activities do so at their own risk. The nature of this tour includes inherent risks for its participants. All guests must understand and acknowledge that this activity bears certain known and unanticipated risks which could result in serious bodily injury. Make certain you are aware of these risks before purchase.