Royal Caribbean Expands Cancellation of Cruise Calls to Private Island Labadee Through August to Protect Passengers From Heightened Security Threats in Haiti

Published on May 20, 2025

Royal Caribbean International has expanded the cancellation of calls to its private island destination in Haiti, Labadee, extending the suspension of visits through the month of August. This decision follows an earlier temporary halt initiated in mid-April, reflecting ongoing concerns about the security situation in the region. The move affects multiple vessels in the cruise line’s fleet, with scheduled visits to Labadee now officially removed from numerous itineraries over the coming months.

Travelers aboard ships including some of the line’s largest and most popular vessels recently reported that their planned stops at Labadee were cancelled. These changes come as part of a broader strategy by the cruise operator to prioritize passenger safety amid continuing unrest in Haiti, particularly within the capital and surrounding areas.

The cruise line has formally communicated with guests, advising them of the adjustments to their voyage schedules. It explained that evolving conditions in Haiti, including an increase in criminal activities and gang-related violence, have prompted a cautious approach to the port of call. In response, the company has decided to replace visits to Labadee with alternative options, ensuring that passengers can still enjoy a memorable and safe experience on their cruises.

Depending on the specific itinerary, some cruises will substitute the day originally planned for Labadee with an extended day at sea. Others will redirect to different ports in the Caribbean, with popular destinations such as Nassau in the Bahamas, Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the company’s own private resort Perfect Day at CocoCay serving as alternatives. These destinations offer a variety of shore excursions, activities, and amenities to maintain a high standard of guest enjoyment.

For passengers who had previously purchased shore excursions or activities specifically for Labadee, the cruise line has assured that full refunds will be issued promptly. This refund policy aims to minimize disruption and provide financial reassurance amid the itinerary changes.

The cruise operator expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by these itinerary revisions but emphasized that the health and safety of guests and crew remain the company’s top priority. This stance reflects a growing trend within the cruise industry to respond proactively to regional security issues by adjusting routes to mitigate risks.

Labadee, located along Haiti’s northern coast near the city of Cap-Haïtien, has been a private destination exclusively operated by the cruise line since the 1980s. The port and resort were specifically developed to provide a secure, controlled environment for cruise passengers visiting Haiti, distinct from public ports of call. Over the years, Labadee has undergone significant upgrades, most notably a major enhancement in 2009 that introduced several new attractions and amenities.

Today, the resort features a range of facilities designed to cater to diverse traveler preferences. Visitors can enjoy a lively flea market showcasing local crafts, an adrenaline-pumping roller coaster, a scenic zip line traversing the beachfront, and a variety of well-maintained beaches for relaxation and water sports. The entire area is fenced and monitored to maintain security standards, offering a safe environment away from mainland disturbances.

Despite these security measures within the private resort, increasing gang violence and instability in the broader Haitian context have made visits more challenging and riskier. Over recent years, Haiti has experienced a surge in criminal activity, including kidnappings and clashes involving armed groups, particularly in and around the capital, Port-au-Prince. These ongoing issues have led several travel companies to reassess their operations in the country.

Earlier in the same year, another major cruise line also announced widespread cancellations of their Labadee calls, affecting their itineraries for both 2025 and 2026. This underscores the persistent difficulties the destination faces in maintaining a safe environment for international tourism under current conditions.

The extended suspension of cruise visits to Labadee highlights the broader impact of security challenges on the Caribbean cruise industry’s itineraries and planning. Cruise lines depend on stable and safe port destinations to attract travelers and provide seamless vacation experiences. When local conditions deteriorate, companies are compelled to make difficult decisions to protect guests, even if it means removing once-popular destinations from their schedules.

As the situation in Haiti continues to evolve, cruise operators will likely keep monitoring developments closely. Any future resumption of visits to Labadee will depend on tangible improvements in safety and political stability. Until then, travelers can expect their itineraries to include alternative ports and leisure days at sea in place of Labadee calls.

This approach reflects a responsible and adaptable cruise industry that prioritizes customer welfare while maintaining quality travel experiences. By offering alternative destinations and ensuring refund policies for affected excursions, the cruise company aims to balance operational challenges with guest satisfaction.

In conclusion, while Labadee remains a unique and attractive private island destination with a wealth of recreational options, current security concerns have necessitated an extended pause on cruise calls. Travelers planning cruises through the summer and beyond should prepare for adjusted itineraries and explore the diverse alternatives provided by the cruise operator in response to the evolving circumstances in Haiti.