Royal Caribbean has confirmed that it will continue to suspend visits to its exclusive destination in Labadee, Haiti, until at least 2028. This decision follows heightened concerns over ongoing violence and civil unrest within the country, prompting safety measures for guests and crew.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Labadee-Haiti-Royal-Caribbean564-11042026-01b167915c134b1daf0b09c865164e9c.jpg)
The suspension, which began in April 2025, was triggered by a U.S. travel advisory that categorised Haiti as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” location. This alert stems from a significant increase in crime rates, including kidnapping and violent incidents, as well as general instability throughout Haiti.
Labadee, situated on the northern coast of Haiti, is a private resort that Royal Caribbean promotes as a tropical getaway where “beachside meets mountainside.” The site boasts five beautiful beaches and offers various excursions designed to showcase the local landscape and culture. However, the conditions in the country have made it impossible for the cruise line to operate safely in the region.
Initially, the cruise line had resumed trips to Labadee for a brief period in early 2025. However, they quickly reassessed the situation and decided to extend the suspension, citing concerns for the safety and well-being of their customers and staff. Royal Caribbean’s communications department stated that updates have been shared directly with affected guests, illustrating a commitment to transparency during this challenging period.
The travel advisory currently in effect classifies Haiti as a high-risk area, with the U.S. State Department warning citizens to avoid travel due to factors including rampant violent crime, unrest, and limited healthcare resources. Port-au-Prince, the capital, has seen a particularly alarming rise in firearm-related incidents, with gangs and organized crime posing serious threats to safety.
In addition to the travel ban, the Federal Aviation Administration has restricted flights to Port-au-Prince Airport due to the prevailing instability. The ongoing national state of emergency, which began in March 2024, exemplifies the urgent need for caution among potential travellers.
Royal Caribbean has reassured stakeholders that they are continually assessing the situation in Haiti to ensure they can provide enjoyable and safe vacation experiences. They plan to reassign team members usually stationed in Labadee to other roles within the company’s fleet or alternative destinations in the interim.
This long-term suspension underscores the cruise line’s dedication to ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. As the situation evolves, Royal Caribbean remains focused on protecting its guests while abiding by government advisories.
With the suspension extending to 2028, the cruise industry waits to see what implications this may have for travel in the Caribbean. Future operations will hinge on improvements in security conditions in Haiti and reassurances from travel authorities regarding the safety of visiting the island.
As developments continue to unfold in the region, both potential travellers and cruise enthusiasts will be monitoring the situation closely. The hope remains that, in time, Labadee can once again welcome visitors eager for the sun, sea, and cultural richness that the destination has to offer.
About the Author
