Royal Caribbean Extends Suspension of Labadee Visits

A well-known cruise line has decided to prolong its halt on visits to its private resort for another year. This has left some travelers questioning whether the location will ever reopen.

Royal Caribbean has announced that visits to Labadee, Haiti, will remain suspended until June 2027. Labadee, located on Haiti’s northern coast, is known for its stunning white sand beaches and the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, one of the longest overwater ziplines in the world.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean Group explained that the decision stemmed from ongoing evaluations of the situation in Haiti, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe and enjoyable vacation experience. “The safety and health of our guests and crew are our top priorities,” they stated, noting that passengers had been informed directly about this update.

This announcement follows a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory issued by the U.S. State Department, which highlights the continued struggles with gang violence and political instability in Haiti.

Labadee is roughly nine miles northwest of Cap-Haitien, the country’s second-largest city, and represents one of the few private cruise destinations in Haiti. Many feel that it offers a luxurious escape from the rest of the country.

The spokesperson further added that Royal Caribbean is looking out for their Labadee team members and is committed to keeping them informed and supported during this period. The company also noted they’ve identified other locations to place team members in the meantime.

Currently, cruise passengers do not have the option of visiting Labadee. Many have expressed their disappointment, with some stating destinations like Grand Cayman and Cozumel are now on their itineraries instead. One passenger lamented, “I really wanted to visit Labadee,” while another reminisced, saying, “Labadie was a big highlight on many itineraries.”

Online discussions reveal a mix of disappointment and concern. “It’s so sad. I always enjoyed going there,” one user shared. Others mentioned feeling for the locals dependent on tourism in that area, highlighting the economic impacts such changes have on their livelihoods.

Some travelers remain hopeful, with one stating, “Oh my god… I’m going to Labadee in April 2027.” As the situation continues to unfold, it’s yet to be seen how Royal Caribbean will address the future of Labadee amidst these ongoing challenges.

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson remarked on their long-standing connection to the Labadee community and mentioned an ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts, including regular food donations to local communities.