Royal Caribbean has announced the suspension of all cruise visits to its private island in Haiti, Labadee, through April 2026. This decision comes amid escalating safety concerns in the country, including increased gang violence, crime, and civil unrest.
U.S. Travel Advisory and Safety Risks
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti, the highest warning level, due to life-threatening risks to U.S. citizens. Key risks highlighted in the advisory include:
- Kidnapping: Heightened risk for both foreigners and locals.
- Crime: Violent incidents such as armed robberies, carjackings, and sexual assaults are prevalent.
- Terrorist Activity: Threats from terrorist groups exist throughout the country.
- Civil Unrest: Frequent demonstrations and violent protests disrupt daily life and pose safety hazards.
- Limited Healthcare: Medical facilities and supplies are severely limited, making emergencies difficult to manage.
In response to these conditions, U.S. citizens are strongly advised to leave Haiti as soon as possible and to avoid crowds, monitor local news, maintain emergency plans, and have evacuation strategies that do not rely on government assistance.
Impact on Cruise Itineraries
The suspension affects over 35 scheduled visits to Labadee, including stops by ships such as Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas.
In place of Labadee, Royal Caribbean is rerouting cruises to alternative destinations, including Nassau (Bahamas), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Grand Turk (Turks and Caicos), and Falmouth (Jamaica). Some itineraries may also include additional sea days.
Economic and Social Implications
Labadee has been a significant economic driver for Haiti, providing employment opportunities and generating revenue through tourism. The suspension of cruise visits is expected to impact local vendors and businesses that rely heavily on cruise tourism.
Royal Caribbean’s Commitment to Safety
Royal Caribbean emphasized that the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” to prioritize the safety of its guests and crew. The company continues to monitor the situation in Haiti and has communicated directly with affected passengers regarding itinerary changes.
While the suspension is set through April 2026, Royal Caribbean has not specified when or if visits to Labadee will resume. Decisions will continue to be guided by the safety and security of passengers and crew.
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