While Royal Caribbean has now resumed sailings to its private resort of Labvadee on the island of Haiti, it hasn’t given the destination a full vote of confidence – shore excursion options have been limited.
The cruise line marked its return with the arrival of the Adventure of the Seas on 8th October 2024.
Despite the celebratory return, Royal Caribbean has limited the number of available shore excursions, reflecting a cautious approach to the ongoing situation in Haiti.
While the island itself is considered relatively safe, excursions extending beyond the immediate vicinity of the cruise port have been curtailed.
While many of the excursions are listed on the website and can be booked through the app, some guests have since been contacted to notify them that their booked excursions were cancelled.
As we return to visiting Labadee, we’re phasing the rollout of some of our tours and temporarily adjusting our tour offerings. As a result, we’ve cancelled your excursion and issued a full refund to your original form of payment,”
Letter sent to a guest by Royal Caribbean
Labadee, a private island destination managed by Royal Caribbean, is located on the northern coast of Haiti.
Known for its stunning landscapes and exclusive amenities, Labadee is a key highlight in Royal Caribbean’s cruise itineraries. The island offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, attracting a diverse range of passengers seeking a memorable Caribbean experience.
In early 2024, Royal Caribbean suspended visits to Labadee due to escalating safety concerns in Haiti. A significant prison break, involving inmates convicted of serious crimes, along with increasing gang violence and civil unrest, prompted the cruise line to prioritise the safety of its passengers and crew.
Initially, the company cancelled select shore excursions, but the severity of the situation led to a complete suspension of visits by 14th March 2024. This hiatus lasted several months, impacting Royal Caribbean’s operations and its passengers’ travel plans.
The return to Labadee was marked by the arrival of the Adventure of the Seas, signalling a cautious yet optimistic step forward for Royal Caribbean. The cruise line has implemented comprehensive safety measures to ensure the well-being of its guests, including enhanced security protocols and close monitoring of the situation in Haiti.
Labadee is generally regarded as safer than other Haitian destinations, thanks to Royal Caribbean’s vigilant monitoring and operational control.
Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean may adjust its excursion offerings as the situation in Haiti evolves. The cruise line remains committed to providing memorable experiences while prioritising safety.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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