SANDALS Royal Caribbean gave a royal welcome to the first over-the-water suites guests, Anthony and Linda Costa, at the much-anticipated grand opening on Friday, December 2.

Sandals said butlers and other members of staff eagerly awaited the arrival of the three-time Sandals repeat guests as they disembarked the Royal Duffy — the private luxury boat transfer.

The first of its kind in the Caribbean, these brand new over-the-water villas boast a new level of innovation for the luxury-included company. Each suite is inspired by the Feng Shui elements — wood, water, fire, earth and metal — and is accompanied by around-the-clock butlers, trained by the Guild of Professional Butlers.

Guests can experience a direct connection to the sea through expansive glass doors, an infinity pool, a large over-the-water hammock, floating beach deck, and glass floor panels that allow guests to peek into the marine life of the Caribbean Sea.

Next year 12 additional bungalows are expected to be added to the over-the-water village, Sandals said.