Royal Caribbean International has officially suspended all scheduled cruise ship visits to its private destination, Labadee, Haiti, through April 2026. This significant decision, driven by escalating safety concerns and a dire U.S. Department of State travel advisory, reflects a growing unease over the deteriorating security situation in Haiti and its potential impact on passengers and crew.
Deepening Security Crisis Prompts Precautionary Pause
The cruise line cited an “abundance of caution” as the primary reason for pausing its visits to Labadee. This precautionary measure comes as the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti, warning Americans against visiting due to pervasive risks including kidnapping, violent crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare services. The advisory highlights that crimes involving firearms are common, with a particular emphasis on kidnappings for ransom, where families have paid substantial sums for victims’ release. While Labadee itself is a private, fenced-off destination, Royal Caribbean has stated it is no longer confident in the broader security environment of the country.
Extensive Impact on Itineraries and Travelers
This suspension directly impacts 41 Royal Caribbean itineraries, with many sailings departing from Florida, a major hub for the cruise industry. Several of the cruise line’s largest ships, including Symphony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Adventure of the Seas, are among those rerouting to alternate destinations. To accommodate these changes, Royal Caribbean is substituting Labadee with other popular Caribbean ports such as Nassau, Bahamas; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and George Town, Grand Cayman. Passengers with pre-booked excursions for Labadee will receive full refunds or onboard credits. This marks the second consecutive year Royal Caribbean has had to suspend calls to this popular resort, with previous pauses extending through April 2025 and into October 2025.
Broader Implications for Haiti’s Tourism and Economy
The cessation of visits to Labadee has significant economic ramifications for Haiti. Tourism is a vital contributor to the nation’s economy, and the disruption in cruise traffic, particularly from a major operator like Royal Caribbean, translates into a substantial loss of revenue. Local businesses, vendors, tour operators, and individuals who rely on cruise passengers for their livelihoods face financial hardship and uncertainty. Labadee has historically been a cornerstone of Haiti’s tourism industry, attracting thousands of visitors annually and providing employment for hundreds of Haitians. The long-term impact on Haiti’s image as a viable tourist destination is also a concern, especially in an industry that prioritizes consistency and safety.
A Strong Caribbean Cruise Market Amidst Regional Challenges
Despite the turmoil affecting specific destinations, the overall demand for Caribbean cruises remains robust. AAA projects 19 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2025, with 72% heading to the Caribbean, reflecting a return to pre-pandemic popularity for the region. The Caribbean cruise market is forecast to grow, indicating a strong overall industry outlook. While Royal Caribbean’s decision highlights the challenges posed by regional instability, other destinations continue to offer secure and appealing vacation experiences, ensuring the Caribbean remains a dominant force in the global travel market. The cruise line is committed to monitoring the situation and reassessing its plans for Labadee after April 2026, with the hope of eventually resuming visits when conditions permit.