Royal Caribbean Suspends Labadee Visits Amid Ongoing Unrest in Haiti

Royal Caribbean has announced a temporary halt to all visits at Labadee, its private beach destination on the northern coast of Haiti, citing ongoing civil unrest and escalating violence in the region. This marks the second consecutive year the cruise line has suspended calls to this popular resort. In a communication sent to affected passengers, Royal Caribbean emphasized that the measure was taken for “an abundance of caution.”

Reasons for the Suspension

The security situation in Haiti has steadily deteriorated, prompting a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory from the U.S. Department of State. The advisory cites widespread crime, including carjackings, kidnappings, and armed robberies, largely fueled by gang activity. Some reports indicate that over 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, is under gang control, with unrest spilling into other regions. Despite Labadee being roughly 100 miles from the capital and secured by private security forces, Royal Caribbean determined that broader instability warranted a pause in port calls to safeguard guests and crew.

The decision follows a broader pattern of increased caution in Haiti. Multiple armed assaults, including attacks near Toussaint Louverture International Airport, have underscored the heightened risks to international travelers. While Labadee remains geographically distant from many of these incidents, the overall unrest has compelled the cruise line to suspend these stops until conditions improve.

Itinerary Adjustments and Replacements

To accommodate the suspension, several Royal Caribbean ships, including Oasis of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas, have been rerouted. Oasis of the Seas now calls in Nassau, The Bahamas, and Voyager of the Seas visits Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. In some cases, ships will instead add a day at sea or make a call at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private destination in The Bahamas. Passengers with prepaid Labadee excursions receive onboard credits or full refunds for these changes.

While the changes aim to prioritize safety, Royal Caribbean continues to provide alternative experiences that maintain the overall Caribbean cruise appeal. The company has indicated that it is closely monitoring conditions in Haiti, ready to further revise schedules if new safety concerns emerge.

Impact on Cruise Operations and Local Communities

Labadee has long been a highlight of Caribbean itineraries, renowned for its beaches, oceanfront zip-lining, and family-friendly attractions. These visits also generate crucial income for local vendors and workers, making the area a vital economic hub in a nation where employment opportunities can be scarce. The suspension not only affects Royal Caribbean’s bottom line but also poses financial challenges for communities dependent on tourism revenue.

As a private resort area, Labadee typically relies on its own security measures. However, ongoing unrest in the region has overshadowed these efforts, forcing the cruise line to reassess risk levels and adjust operations. The setback reflects the delicate balance between ensuring passenger safety and investing in local partnerships that sustain economic growth.

Broader Industry Implications

This latest move by Royal Caribbean parallels actions from other cruise operators. Celebrity Cruises has also removed Labadee from multiple itineraries through 2026, highlighting a broader industry trend of avoiding destinations deemed too volatile. Increasing geopolitical challenges have made flexibility in itinerary development a critical component of cruise line operations. Some industry experts predict further itinerary modifications for 2025 and beyond, particularly in regions facing similar unrest.

Royal Caribbean’s Position on Future Visits

Although Royal Caribbean views the suspension as temporary, it has provided no definitive timeline for returning to Labadee. Company officials emphasize that safety remains the priority, and any decision to resume port calls will be based on evolving circumstances in Haiti. In the meantime, the cruise line continues to explore alternative destinations to preserve customer satisfaction while adhering to its elevated security protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Royal Caribbean suspending visits to Labadee?

The cruise line cites ongoing crime, civil unrest, and rising gang activity across Haiti, as outlined in the U.S. Department of State’s Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. Despite Labadee’s private security, Royal Caribbean chose to act out of caution for guest and crew safety.

Which destinations have been substituted for Labadee?

Ships such as Oasis of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas now call in ports like Nassau in The Bahamas and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. Some itineraries also include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay or an additional day at sea.

Will guests receive compensation for canceled excursions?

Yes. Guests scheduled for Labadee shore excursions are receiving onboard credits or full refunds to compensate for the change in itinerary.

How does this suspension impact the local economy in Haiti?

Labadee provides substantial employment opportunities and tourism revenue for nearby communities. The suspension poses an economic setback for local vendors and workers who rely on cruise ship visitors for their livelihoods.

When might Royal Caribbean resume visits to Labadee?

Royal Caribbean has not announced a specific timeframe. The company will continue to monitor conditions in Haiti and base future itinerary decisions on developing security assessments.

While Labadee’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture have made it a favorite among cruisers, current conditions underline the complexities of operating in regions facing widespread instability. Royal Caribbean remains hopeful that safer conditions will allow a return to one of its most iconic private destinations in the Caribbean.