October 28, 2026 — Half Moon in Montego Bay, Jamaica, says its phased return after Hurricane Melissa will be complete by Thanksgiving, when the historic Founders Cove section reopens, about a year after the storm.
What is happening
The luxury resort suspended operations after Hurricane Melissa and has been reopening in stages. Its October 27 update sets out the final steps. Managing Director Shernette Crichton said that “Half Moon comes full circle.”
| When | What reopens |
|---|---|
| Earlier in 2026 | Championship golf course |
| April 2026 | Eclipse at Half Moon (beachfront) and the Villas at Half Moon |
| By Thanksgiving 2026 | Founders Cove: Hibiscus, Ocean Court, West Cottages, original lobby, Seagrape Terrace, The Cedar Bar; Sugar Mill dining also returns (exact date TBA) |
| Festive season | A few more West Cottages |
| December 12, 2026 | Half Moon Founders Cup golf event returns |
What’s new
- Updated furnishings throughout, and newly reconfigured two-bedroom Ocean Court suites
- A new premium-cut menu at Sugar Mill under Chef Christopher Golding
- Chef Omar Gabriele Bernardi leading Delmare, the Italian-influenced seafood restaurant
- Over the Moon shopping area and the Garlandstone Gallery of Jamaican art
- A Guest Instructor Series for golf this fall and winter
What it means for airline travelers
- Airport: The resort is in Montego Bay, served by Sangster International (MBJ), Jamaica’s main tourist gateway.
- Holiday timing: Founders Cove is promised “by Thanksgiving” with no exact date, and Sugar Mill’s date is TBA. If you are booking a specific room category for late November, confirm it is open for your dates before you buy flights.
- Peak demand: Thanksgiving and the festive season are busy at Jamaica resorts and on flights into MBJ, so allow extra time and book early.
- Industry rates: The update did not mention travel-industry or airline-employee rates.
Sources
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