Labadee, Haiti: Royal Caribbean Suspends Cruises Amid Rising Safety Concerns, Impacting Tourism: All You Need to Know

Published on September 17, 2025

The Caribbean’s tourism industry has been shaken by a significant change as Royal Caribbean announced the suspension of all visits to its private port in Labadee, Haiti. This decision, effective through April 2026, comes in response to escalating safety concerns, particularly due to the recent U.S. State Department travel advisory for Haiti. The suspension is a reflection of growing global unease over the deteriorating security situation in the region.

The U.S. State Department’s advisory, issued on July 15, 2025, has elevated Haiti to a “Do Not Travel” status, warning against visiting due to increasing risks such as kidnappings, civil unrest, terrorism, and inadequate healthcare services. The advisory directly impacts tourists, particularly those planning to visit Royal Caribbean’s Labadee port, which has long been a popular destination for cruise passengers seeking a tropical retreat.

The Rise of Security Concerns in Haiti

Haiti has been grappling with increasing violence and instability for several years. The U.S. government’s decision to issue a high-level travel warning was prompted by a surge in kidnappings, targeting both locals and foreigners. Kidnappers demand large ransoms, ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, putting tourists at serious risk. The situation is further complicated by the limited ability of the Haitian government to maintain order and provide adequate safety measures in certain regions, including Labadee.

Royal Caribbean has been directly impacted by these safety concerns, as it had included Labadee in numerous itineraries. The cruise line, prioritizing the safety of its passengers and crew, was left with no choice but to cancel 41 scheduled itineraries, some of which had already been booked. For affected travelers, this has meant finding alternative vacation plans, as the scenic port of Labadee is no longer an option for many future cruises.

Royal Caribbean’s Response: Ensuring Passenger Safety

In light of the escalating safety concerns, Royal Caribbean acted swiftly. The cruise line has reached out to passengers affected by these changes, offering full refunds or alternative itineraries. Passengers have been given the opportunity to change their bookings for different destinations or cruises, ensuring that their vacation plans can proceed without major disruptions.

The cruise line has emphasized that these measures were taken out of an abundance of caution, underlining that safety is always the top priority for both passengers and crew. This proactive response highlights the cruise line’s commitment to ensuring a positive travel experience, even in the face of unavoidable cancellations. The company is also working closely with authorities to monitor the situation in Haiti, ensuring that any potential future visits to the island will only happen once the safety conditions improve.

The Economic Impact of the Suspension on Haiti’s Tourism Industry

The decision to suspend cruise calls to Labadee will undoubtedly have a substantial economic impact on Haiti’s tourism sector. Labadee, operated as a private destination by Royal Caribbean, has been a crucial economic driver for the local economy, particularly for those involved in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The sudden halt of cruise arrivals to the port means a loss of income for local vendors, guides, and the broader tourism ecosystem in Haiti.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have historically been an important source of income, providing thousands of tourists who spend on local crafts, food, and excursions. As a result, the decision to halt cruises will affect hundreds of small businesses and disrupt the steady influx of international tourists. However, this pause in tourism might also serve as an opportunity for Haiti to reevaluate and prioritize improving its security situation and infrastructure.

Boosting Tourism Beyond Labadee

While the suspension of visits to Labadee, Haiti, presents immediate challenges, it also highlights the broader need for the Caribbean tourism industry to focus on sustainable and secure travel experiences. Tourists are increasingly prioritizing destinations that ensure their safety without compromising on experiences. Haiti, once a beloved stop on Caribbean cruises, may now need to explore new ways to rebuild its tourism sector, focusing on safety and long-term stability.

In the face of such challenges, other Caribbean destinations are well-positioned to fill the void left by the suspension. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Cuba continue to offer enticing alternatives, with their established safety protocols and rich cultural experiences. These nations are likely to see an uptick in cruise bookings as travelers seek destinations that offer both luxury and security.

Tourism’s Resilience in the Caribbean

The suspension of visits to Labadee, Haiti, may have disrupted the region’s tourism industry, but it also brings to light the resilience of the Caribbean’s broader tourism landscape. As travelers become more discerning in their choice of destinations, the region’s emphasis on safety, infrastructure, and sustainability will become key drivers of success.

Despite the setbacks, the Caribbean remains a top global tourism destination. With some careful recalibration of safety protocols and enhanced cooperation among governments, cruise lines, and local businesses, the region is likely to recover from these challenges and emerge stronger. As the industry adapts to new realities, the future of Caribbean tourism will depend on prioritizing both visitor experience and security, ensuring that travelers can once again enjoy the stunning beauty and cultural richness the region has to offer.

A Time for Change and Reflection

For now, Royal Caribbean’s decision to suspend visits to Labadee is a necessary response to a growing crisis in Haiti. As travelers and industry stakeholders reflect on the situation, the hope is that Haiti can use this time to rebuild its tourism infrastructure, address safety concerns, and eventually welcome visitors back with open arms. In the meantime, other Caribbean destinations will continue to offer secure and unforgettable experiences, keeping the spirit of the Caribbean alive and thriving in the global travel market.