THE world-renowned Montego Bay Hip Strip will be the host for the newly announced AC Marriott Montego Bay, the second after Kingston, Jamaica, according to Sandals Resorts International (SRI) Executive Chairman Adam Stewart.

“A bold new vision set to transform Montego Bay’s hospitality landscape” was how Stewart described the next “exciting chapter in tourism”, during a formal meeting with State officials, Marriott International leadership, AC Hotel Jamaica board members, and executives of AC Hotel and Sandals Resorts.

Stewart presented the plans for the 165-room AC Marriott Montego Bay which will be a lifestyle hotel rising majestically from the site of the former Sandals Carlyle, or ‘Baby Sandals’, marking a transformational shift from all-inclusive to a modern, European Plan (EP) model.

The meeting culminated in the official signing of the franchise agreement with Marriott International, represented by Paula Cerrillo, senior director of development for the Caribbean region.

“Conceptualised by lead design firm Baskervill, this sleek, oceanfront property is expected to begin construction at the end of 2025, with a projected opening in 2027,” the SRI executive chairman said.

“Rising on structural piles with convenient parking underneath, the hotel’s architecture is inspired by the rich ecosystems of the Caribbean reef, reflecting a tranquil, sensory interplay of sun, sea, and coastal textures.

“This is a magical piece of property, just half a mile from the airport with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and we saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary. We’re taking it to the next level, just as we did in Kingston, creating a hotel that locals and visitors alike will want to experience,” he added.

According to Stewart, AC Marriott Montego Bay is envisioned as “sleek by nature, shaped by the shore, blending the fluidity of the reef with contemporary elegance — a soothing palette of shimmering metallics and coastal greens evoking the clarity and mystique of underwater life, while light-filled spaces and tactile finishes invite exploration and connection”.

In other features, the hotel will boast a sky terrace bar, poised to become a standout destination with ocean view rooms, conference and banqueting space, an open, pedestrian-friendly design, with ease of accessibility, including affordable pricing and inclusive amenities.

“Jamaica needs more EP products — hotels that allow guests to explore, support local businesses and access city life,” Stewart added. “This is not just a hotel for visitors, it’s for Montego Bay and Montegonians.”

Stewart also emphasised the collaboration with local leadership to make the hotel an accessible urban hub for events, business and relaxation.

“This has the potential to change the face of the Hip Strip,” Stewart said. “It’s a showpiece — where design meets purpose and where hospitality meets community,” he explained.

Government Senator Charles Sinclair, who was in attendance, voiced his strong support for the environmental aspects of the project, while the city’s Deputy Mayor Dwight Crawford lauded the plans’ consideration for local access and parking solutions.

AC Marriott Montego Bay is expected to be a catalyst for urban renewal, signalling a powerful shift in Jamaica’s tourism economy — one that elevates lifestyle, celebrates local culture, and opens the door to a new way of experiencing Montego Bay.