Royal Caribbean has extended the suspension of ship calls to its private port Labadee on the northern coast of Haiti through June 2027. Originally, visits to Labadee were set to resume on January 14, 2027, following a suspension through 2026. The cruise operator cited ongoing safety and security concerns as the reason for prolonging the halt in visits.
Safety and Security Concerns in Haiti
The U.S. State Department maintains a Level 4 – Do Not Travel advisory for the entire country of Haiti as of July 10, 2026. The advisory warns of rampant violent crime, increasing gang activity, organized crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, and restricted healthcare
availability. Furthermore, U.S. government policies prohibit employees from bringing family members to Haiti and ban U.S.-based airlines from operating flights to and from Port-au-Prince International Airport (PAP), Haiti’s primary airport.
The State Department stated, “Violent crime is rampant in Haiti, especially in Port-au-Prince. There has been an increase in gangs, organized crime, and terrorist activities.” These security issues remain central to Royal Caribbean’s decision to extend its suspension of port calls to Labadee.
Labadee Attractions and Passenger Impact
Labadee offers a range of activities for cruise passengers, including exploring coral reefs and a half-mile-long zipline over the ocean. Additional attractions include Buccaneer’s Bay, featuring parasailing,
jet skis, speedboats, a rollercoaster, basketball, pickleball, and an on-site waterpark with a 300-foot-long waterslide. Beach bungalows are also available for guest relaxation.
With the extension of the suspension through June 2027, passengers booked on Caribbean itineraries with Royal Caribbean will not visit Labadee until after that date. Royal Caribbean has informed guests directly about these itinerary changes.
Official Statements and Travel Policies
A Royal Caribbean 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.” The spokesperson 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.” Royal Caribbean’s terms allow the company to postpone or cancel any scheduled port of call and replace it with alternative stops when necessary.
The U.S. State Department strongly encourages travelers to register their trips with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which offers safety guidance, emergency notifications, and connects travelers with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
