Royal Caribbean Suspends Visits to Labadee (Haiti) Amid Escalating Security Concerns

Introduction
On April 27, 2025, Royal Caribbean International announced the temporary suspension of visits to its private island resort, Labadee, in Haiti, due to escalating security concerns in the region. The decision follows a surge in crime, gang activity, and civil instability within Haiti, prompting the U.S. Department of State to issue a Level 4 travel advisory for the country. This precautionary measure has led to itinerary adjustments for approximately a dozen Royal Caribbean vessels, impacting roundtrip sailings from Florida ports such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Port Canaveral. While no alternative port has been announced yet, the cruise line has assured affected guests that they will be directly notified of changes.

Details of the Decision

Reason for Suspension:

• Royal Caribbean cited rising crime, gang violence, and civil unrest in Haiti as primary factors influencing the decision.
• The U.S. Department of State’s Level 4 travel advisory warns against travel to Haiti due to risks of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare services.

Impact on Itineraries:

• Labadee had been a regular port of call for several ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, primarily on Caribbean itineraries.
• Approximately a dozen vessels with Labadee scheduled have been affected, including roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Port Canaveral.
• It remains unclear whether an alternative port will be introduced to replace Labadee on these routes.

Communication with Passengers:

• Royal Caribbean stated that direct communication regarding itinerary changes has been made with affected guests.
• The cruise line emphasized that passenger safety is its top priority and reassured travelers of ongoing support during this adjustment period.

Response and Impact

Industry Reaction:

• The suspension highlights the cruise industry’s sensitivity to regional instability and its commitment to ensuring passenger safety.
• Other cruise lines operating in the Caribbean may reconsider their itineraries in light of Haiti’s deteriorating security situation.

Passenger Experience:

• Labadee was a popular destination among Royal Caribbean passengers, known for its family-friendly amenities, including a rollercoaster, waterslides, and water-based recreational activities.
• The absence of Labadee may impact guest satisfaction, particularly for families seeking beachfront relaxation and entertainment.

Broader Implications:

• This decision underscores the challenges of maintaining operations in regions affected by political and social instability.
• The cruise industry faces pressure to balance operational flexibility with passenger expectations when adjusting itineraries due to external factors.

Key Takeaways:

• Royal Caribbean has suspended visits to Labadee, Haiti, due to escalating security concerns, including crime, gang violence, and civil unrest.
• The U.S. Department of State’s Level 4 travel advisory for Haiti advises against travel due to heightened risks of kidnapping, crime, and limited healthcare services.
• Approximately a dozen Royal Caribbean vessels have been impacted, with itineraries adjusted and direct communication sent to affected guests.
• Labadee was a popular port offering family-friendly amenities, and its removal may affect passenger satisfaction.
• No alternative port has been announced yet, highlighting the logistical challenges of itinerary adjustments.