Celebrity Cruises Drops Labadee Stops for 2025–2026 Over Safety Concerns

Celebrity Cruises has announced the cancellation of all stops at Labadee in Haiti on 11 select itineraries across 2025 and 2026, citing guest safety and operational concerns. The decision primarily affects sailings aboard the Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond. Labadee, a private resort destination owned by Royal Caribbean, has been removed from itineraries due to security risks highlighted in a Level Four travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State. In place of Labadee, passengers will visit alternative Caribbean locations, including Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, Mexico.

Safety Concerns and the Level Four Travel Advisory

The U.S. Department of State’s Level Four travel advisory for Haiti was initially issued in March 2024 and reissued in July 2025 with updated guidance. It warns Americans against traveling to Haiti due to widespread issues such as violent crime, kidnappings, carjackings, and civil unrest. Gunfire exchanges have even taken place near the Port-au-Prince international airport. Haiti remains under a State of Emergency, reflecting ongoing political, social, and safety instability.

Both Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean, the operator of Labadee, have emphasized passenger safety as their highest priority in adapting their itineraries. A representative from Celebrity Cruises stated, “To provide you with a better experience, we have made the decision to cancel our visit to Labadee, Haiti.”

Impact on Labadee and Its Operations

Labadee, located on Haiti’s northern coast, has long been a symbol of luxury and exclusivity within the Royal Caribbean Group’s portfolio. Known for its private resort atmosphere, Labadee offered unique Caribbean experiences such as snorkeling, fishing excursions, ziplining, and relaxing coastal tours. Previously, it was a frequent stop on cruises that included other destinations such as Key West and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Before the cancellation, Celebrity Cruises featured 28 distinct shore excursions at Labadee. However, the updated safety advisory has led to a suspension of all visits to the resort, affecting planned activities and causing a drop in cruise line arrivals until at least early 2026.

Alternative Destinations for Affected Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has reassured passengers of high-quality alternatives to Labadee, with replacement stops at popular Caribbean destinations. These include:

• Turks and Caicos: Famous for stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, this destination offers a serene coastal experience.
• Grand Cayman: Known for its eco-tourism opportunities, unique culinary offerings, and cultural experiences, Grand Cayman is an appealing substitute.
• Cozumel, Mexico: A favorite among cruise lines, this island provides visitors with a rich blend of Mayan heritage and scuba diving adventures.

Celebrity Cruises is committed to ensuring that these replacements enhance guest experiences while adhering to enhanced safety protocols. The cruise line clarified that specific replacement ports and stop schedules may vary depending on the sailing and operational considerations.

Royal Caribbean Group’s Broader Adaptation

The decision by Celebrity Cruises aligns with Royal Caribbean International’s earlier suspension of visits to Labadee, announced before extending the pause through April 2026. Royal Caribbean’s statement to Travel + Leisure noted that it acted “out of an abundance of caution” while closely informing passengers of the itinerary changes. Both cruise lines continue to monitor the safety situation in Haiti alongside government-issued travel advisories to ensure guest well-being.

Celebrity Cruises has updated its itineraries on its website, offering affected passengers detailed information and recommendations for alternative activities at replacement destinations. Additionally, the cancellation reflects the broader cruise industry’s strategies for dynamic itinerary adjustments when security risks emerge.

Traveler Guidance

Passengers booked on affected sailings should familiarize themselves with updated schedules and consult Celebrity’s digital platforms for real-time information regarding shore excursion options and replacement ports. These changes may affect previously pre-booked excursions or port-specific plans.

• Review updated itineraries via the Celebrity Cruises website or app.
• Check for new shore excursion options at alternative ports closer to departure dates.
• Contact travel advisors or Celebrity Cruises directly for assistance with adjusting trip plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Celebrity Cruises cancel visits to Labadee?

This decision was based on security risks outlined in the U.S. Department of State’s Level Four travel advisory for Haiti. Reports of widespread crime, including kidnappings, armed robberies, and unrest, prompted Celebrity Cruises to restrict visits to ensure passenger safety.

Which ships are most impacted by these changes?

The updates primarily affect sailings on the Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond, which featured previously scheduled stops in Labadee through 2025 and 2026.

What ports will replace Labadee on affected itineraries?

Scheduled replacement ports include Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, Mexico, depending on the specific itinerary and sailing date. Updates are reflected in the Celebrity Cruises app and online planner.

Are other cruise lines avoiding Labadee?

Yes, Royal Caribbean, which owns Labadee, has also suspended visits through April 2026, citing similar safety concerns.

Where can travelers find updated itinerary information?

Celebrity Cruises has posted a full list of updated itineraries on its official website and is contacting affected guests directly via email and digital notifications.