Royal Caribbean Group has extended the suspension of cruise ship visits to Labadee, Haiti through June 2027 due to safety concerns for guests and crew members.
Safety Concerns and Travel Advisory
The suspension comes amid ongoing gang violence and political instability in Haiti. The US State Department has issued a Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory for the country.
Labadee’s Location and Attractions
Labadee is a private beach destination operated by Royal Caribbean on Haiti’s northern coast, situated about six miles northwest of Cap-Haïtien, Haiti’s second-largest city. It is known for white-sand beaches and the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line zipline, one of the world’s longest over-water ziplines. Labadee is
one of Haiti’s few exclusive cruise stops and plays an important role in the local economy.
Impact on Employees and Passengers
Royal Caribbean is committed to its Labadee team members and has identified positions across its fleets and other destinations to support them during the suspension. The company has communicated directly with guests about the itinerary changes.
Labadee stops have been replaced with cruise calls to Grand Cayman, Grand Turk, Cozumel, and Nassau.
Official Statements
A Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson said, “As we continue to evaluate conditions in Haiti and our ability to deliver the best vacations responsibly, we have decided to extend the suspension of ship
calls to Labadee through June 2027.” They added, “This decision was made with the safety and well-being of our guests and crew members in mind. We have communicated these changes directly with guests.”
Regarding employees, the spokesperson said, “We remain committed to our Labadee team members and are working to ensure they feel informed and supported. We have identified positions across our fleets and destinations to place team members during this pause.” They also stated, “Our connection to the Labadee community extends far beyond our operations there, and we remain proud of the long-standing investments we have made in the
region.”
Humanitarian Efforts
Royal Caribbean continues to support local communities with ongoing humanitarian efforts, including monthly food donations.
