Sandals Montego Bay Vs Royal Caribbean: Rooms, Dining Options And Fun Activities
Key Takeaways
- These resorts are only 3.1 km apart, and a free hourly shuttle connects them.
- Montego Bay’s entry-level rooms begin at $293, while Royal Caribbean starts at $262.
- Royal Caribbean features a private island with Thai dining, swim-up bars, and snorkeling, while Montego Bay has Jamaica’s largest private beach, ideal for parties and long walks.
- Wedding packages at both resorts include venues like an Over-the-Water Chapel or private island.
Sandals Montego Bay Vs Royal Caribbean
With 12 restaurants, a daily DJ at the beach, and access to Jamaica’s largest private white-sand beach, this resort is ideal for those seeking a more energetic vacation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter escape with luxurious amenities like overwater bungalows and British-inspired gardens, then Royal Caribbean may be best suited for you.
Just a short shuttle ride away from Montego Bay, this resort offers a beautiful environment on its private offshore island. It also offers nine restaurants and many other unique features like an Over-the-Water wedding Chapel.
So, it ultimately depends on what type of vacation you’re looking for to choose between these two resorts. In general, if you want endless activities and a smaller crowd, then Sandals Montego Bay is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you prioritize relaxation and privacy, Royal Caribbean offers a tranquil experience with smaller crowds and charming British colonial vibes.
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How Close Are Sandals Montego Bay And Sandals Royal Caribbean?
This short distance offers advantages like saving time when traveling to and from the airport. Montego Bay Resort is just 5 minutes from the airport, so you can relax by the pool more. Plus, you can arrive early or leave late without worrying about long travel times.
A free hourly shuttle runs between the two resorts, making it easy for guests to change their surroundings or try different dining options. And, if you prefer more independence, taxis are readily available for around $10 per trip.
This means you can easily access 20 restaurants and shared amenities like Royal Caribbean’s private island without any hassle.
Price Differences Between Sandals Montego Bay Vs Sandals Royal Caribbean
When considering a stay at either Sandals Montego Bay or Royal Caribbean, it’s important to be aware of the price differences between the two resorts. So, let’s compare them below:
Entry-level rooms at Montego Bay start at $293 per person per night, which is slightly more affordable than Royal Caribbean, where rates begin at $303 per person.
For mid-tier options, Montego Bay’s suites average $1,200–$1,500 per night, while overwater villas at Royal Caribbean start at $2,500 per night.
Remember that both resorts include meals, drinks, and activities, but the exclusivity of Royal Caribbean (private island and butler service) often justifies its higher price.
Moreover, if you want to save on your stay, both resorts offer 20-30% discounts during off-peak seasons (late August to early November). For example, a 7-night stay at Montego Bay can average $4,000–$7,000 per couple during peak season. But, it can drop below $4,000 in September.
To ensure maximum savings, it’s recommended to book your stay 9-14 months in advance or keep an eye out for weekly “7-7-7” deals that offer 7% off select rooms.
This will help you to get more affordable rates and lavish vacations at both these resorts.
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How Do The Rooms At Sandals Montego Bay Compare To Sandals Royal Caribbean?
On the other hand, Sandals Royal Caribbean has 227 rooms across 27 categories, with slightly lower entry-level rates at $262 per person.
While Montego Bay boasts lively and beachfront designs, Royal Caribbean exudes British colonial elegance and exclusivity. Moreover, Royal Caribbean has overwater bungalows with glass-floor panels, infinity pools, and private hammocks suspended above the sea.
On the other hand, Montego Bay offers Millionaire Beachfront Swim-Up Suites, where you can swim from your patio to the pool.
Both resorts provide butler service in their top-tier rooms. Still, Royal Caribbean goes a step further by including perks like private BMW airport transfers for guests staying in their overwater villas.
In addition, Royal Caribbean’s entry-level rooms are slightly cheaper at $262 per person compared to Montego Bay’s $293 per person, which provides more dining and activity options.
What Dining Options Are Available At Sandals Montego Bay And Sandals Royal Caribbean
- 12 restaurants at Sandals Montego Bay featuring Jamaican jerk, Italian, sushi, steakhouse, and Caribbean fusion.
- 9 restaurants at Sandals Royal Caribbean including Bombay Club (Indian), Royal Thai (on a private island), and British pub fare.
Both resorts offer diverse global flavors with exclusive highlights such as Royal Caribbean’s Thai and Indian spots. You can also expect to indulge in fresh seafood, local Blue Mountain coffee, and unique dishes like jerk lobster or coconut crème brûlée.
With a mix of casual and upscale dining options, ranging from buffets to beachside grills to romantic fine dining, guests may occasionally experience some inconsistencies.
What Amenities And Activities Are Available At Sandals Montego Bay And Sandals Royal Caribbean?
- Both resorts offer snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking, with Montego Bay including free scuba dives (12 sites) and Royal Caribbean adding secluded snorkeling at its private island.
- Both resorts offer beach volleyball, tennis, or croquet. Montego Bay has seven lively pools, while Royal Caribbean boasts eight quieter pools with lagoon areas.
- There’s never a dull moment with beach parties, reggae music at Montego Bay, bonfires, and British-style tea at Royal Caribbean.
- You can access Sandals Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island, for Thai dining, swim-up bars, and overwater bungalows with glass floors.
- Montego Bay also offers poolside games, DJ sets, or sunset weddings at the Over-the-Water Chapel.
Overall, no matter if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, both resorts cater to your needs.
Which Has The Best Nightlife, Sandals Montego Bay Vs. Royal Caribbean?
Sandals Montego Bay boasts six vibrant bars, including the famous Overwater Bar with stunning ocean views and hammocks suspended above the water. Moreover, you can enjoy premium liquors like Appleton Estate rum and Robert Mondavi wines at its swim-up pools and beachside spots.
On the other hand, Royal Caribbean offers a more refined atmosphere with 5 bars, including Cricketer’s Pub for British ales and a bar at its private island’s Thai restaurant. Both resorts offer Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee and creative cocktails such as Hummingbirds (strawberry-banana rum blends).
While Montego Bay’s bars close around 2 AM, you can continue the fun at Royal Caribbean’s Cricketer’s Pub with karaoke and pub snacks until late at night.
So, for a more intimate and romantic experience, Royal Caribbean is the perfect choice. Its private island offers bonfires and live saxophonists at sunset, which will amaze your stay there.
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How Do The Beaches Compare At Sandals Montego Bay And Sandals Royal Caribbean?
Sandals Montego Bay is perfect for long walks and vibrant beach parties, and it has Jamaica’s largest private white-sand beach, stretching over 2.5 miles. Some areas may even have seaweed or rocks, which makes water shoes a helpful accessory.
Moreover, Royal Caribbean’s main beach is smaller but calmer. It is located in Mahee Bay, and the crystal-clear water is ideal for snorkeling. The resort’s private island, Sandals Cay. It adds seclusion and a swim-up pool bar to the mix.
So, if you prefer a combination of energy and relaxation while on the beach, then Sandals Montego Bay’s divided sections for lively activities and quieter coves will suit your needs.
On the other hand, Royal Caribbean excels in privacy with its offshore island, which is accessible by a quick 2-minute boat ride. Here, you can unwind without crowds in cabanas or on empty stretches of beach.
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Which Resort Is Better For Weddings And Special Events?
Montego Bay shines with its Over-the-Water Chapel for dramatic vows, while Royal Caribbean’s private island adds exclusivity for intimate ceremonies.
Moreover, Montego Bay offers beachfront gazebos and gardens, and Jamaica’s only traditional chapel has stained-glass windows. Royal Caribbean offers overwater gazebos and a private island with secluded coves.
Montego Bay’s ballroom can hold 200 guests for grand events, while Royal Caribbean’s island suits smaller, romantic gatherings.
Both resorts offer planners, floral arrangements, and receptions, but Royal Caribbean’s Thai-inspired island dinners elevate personalization.
Moreover, newlyweds receive sparkling wine, breakfast in bed, and turndown service with petals in both resorts, which makes their post-wedding even more memorable.
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Which One Should You Choose Between Sandals Montego Bay Vs Royal Caribbean?
However, if you prioritize privacy and luxury with overwater bungalows and a private island experience, then Royal Caribbean would be more suitable.
Moreover, It’s also worth noting here that both resorts offer similar amenities, but Montego Bay does have occasional plane noise due to its proximity to the airport.
So, honeymooners seeking seclusion can choose Royal Caribbean’s secluded villas, while groups looking for spacious venues and a lively nightlife scene may prefer Montego Bay.
Are Sandals Montego Bay And Royal Caribbean Good For Snorkeling And Scuba Diving?
Moreover, both resorts offer free daily snorkeling trips and PADI-certified dives (2 tanks/day) with gear provided. You can also rent wetsuits for $15/day. For more experienced divers, there are even more options for night dives ($80) and certification courses ($350).
Overall, both options are perfect for those who enjoy underwater adventures during their vacation.
Differences In Customer Service At Sandals Montego Bay And Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s butlers are trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers and offer guests a more personalized and attentive experience. They take care of everything from unpacking luggage to arranging private island dinners, providing top-notch service.
On the other hand, Montego Bay’s butlers cater to the high-energy requests of their lively clientele, such as poolside drink service and activity bookings.
Both resorts receive similar ratings on TripAdvisor, with Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean each scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars.
So, although both resorts offer excellent customer service, if you prefer a more personalized experience, Royal Caribbean may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a social environment, Montego Bay’s beachfront is the perfect choice.
Get the latest Sandals Special Offers and Discounts.
What Are The Main Differences Between Sandals Montego Bay Vs Royal Caribbean?
When choosing between these two resorts, it depends on your personal vacation preferences.
How Do The Beaches Compare At Sandals Montego Bay And Sandals Royal Caribbean?
With Jamaica’s largest private white-sand beach stretching over 2.5 miles, Sandals Montego Bay is perfect for vibrant beach parties and long walks. Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean’s smaller but calmer main beach in Mahee Bay is ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
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