Royal Caribbean International’s first Royal Beach Club will be built in Antigua along a half-mile of beachfront near Fort James, with its opening scheduled for 2021.

The announcement was made as the cruise line signed an MoU with the government of Antigua and Barbuda.

“The Royal Beach Club Collection is an adventure we cannot wait to reveal to our guests,” said Michael Bayley, President & CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “We have incredible partners in the government of Antigua and Barbuda to bring the first of our collection to life.”

The Royal Beach Club will be developed in Antigua

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“Together, we are designing an experience that will bring more visitors to these idyllic islands and will create significant economic benefits and opportunities for local employment for years to come,” he added.

According to Royal Caribbean, The Royal Beach Club at Fort James will combine the island’s striking beaches with the cruise line’s signature service and amenities, while government officials said it would provide up to US $1-billion in direct and indirect investment in the coming decades.

“The government of Antigua and Barbuda welcomes this multimillion-dollar investment into our tourism product by Royal Caribbean,” said Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Economic Development and Investments, Government of Antigua and Barbuda.

Aerial view of the rugged coast of Antigua

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“The economic impact into our economy is projected to be approximately $80 million USD from direct revenue to the Government over the next 30 years and over $1 billion USD in indirect revenue during the same period,” he said.

The Royal Beach Club concept will offer a more laid-back experience than the thrill-a-minute adventures to be had at Royal Caribbean’s other private destinations such as Perfect Day.

Dining will include regional fare and island-style BBQs with live music, while on-shore and off-shore experiences will include wave runners, paddle boarding, snorkeling, a family splash pad and pool with swim-up bar.

“With Royal Beach Club, we’re starting with a great day at a beautiful beach, and adding even more services and activities,” Bayley explained. “Each location will feature local food and music, family activities and custom attractions to give everyone plenty of options on how to spend their day by the ocean.”