Royal Caribbean has announced a significant change regarding its cruise itineraries, stating that visits to the popular Haitian beach destination, Labadee, will not resume until at least spring 2026. This decision extends the current suspension of visits that began in April 2024.
Initially scheduled to be lifted in October 2024, the pause has now been officially extended through April 2026. Royal Caribbean had already planned to halt Labadee calls for a period of about six months in 2024, amid ongoing concerns regarding safety in the region. As of March 2024, Haiti has been under a state of emergency due to escalating violence and gang activity.
In response to the itinerary changes, Royal Caribbean Group is proactively communicating with its guests to inform them about the updated plans. The cruise line has emphasized that this decision was made “out of an abundance of caution,” reinforcing its commitment to passenger safety.
According to a recent report by Al Jazeera, the United Nations’ special representative to Haiti highlighted the worsening gang violence in the country, noting the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid. This backdrop of instability has played a critical role in Royal Caribbean’s decision-making process regarding its itineraries.
Labadee, situated approximately 126 miles from the capital Port-au-Prince, has been a long-standing destination for cruise travelers seeking sun and sand. However, the recent security concerns have prompted a reevaluation of safety protocols and traveler routes by major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean.
For more updates on Royal Caribbean’s cruise offerings and changes, guests are encouraged to keep in touch with the company or check their official website regularly. As travel continues to evolve amidst global challenges, Royal Caribbean prioritizes the well-being of its passengers while navigating these turbulent waters.
