Despite the U.S. State Department’s Level 4 Travel Advisory urging against travel to Haiti due to escalated gang violence and a recent mass prison break, certain cruise ships are maintaining their scheduled stops at Labadee, a private resort destination owned by Royal Caribbean. This secluded peninsula, situated about 130 miles north of the tumultuous capital, Port-au-Prince, remains a beacon for cruise visitors seeking the beauty and tranquility of Haiti away from the unrest.
Royal Caribbean assures that the safety of its guests and crew is paramount, emphasizing that Labadee is an exclusive destination for its passengers and staff. The resort is designed to ensure a secure environment, with travelers arriving directly by ship and staying within the confines of the private property throughout their visit. All shore excursions take place within this controlled area, maintaining the scheduled activities without disruption.
The cruise line’s global security teams are on high alert, constantly monitoring the situation to ensure that the safety measures in place are adequate. Guests are reminded to stay vigilant and adhere to all travel advisories issued by the State Department. Any necessary changes to itineraries would be communicated directly to the travelers, ensuring their well-being is never compromised.
Scheduled visits to Labadee in the upcoming weeks involve several of Royal Caribbean’s major vessels, including Independence of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, among others. Celebrity Cruises, a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group, also lists Labadee as a port of call for some of its ships later in the year.
This continued patronage of Labadee raises questions about the safety of disembarking in Haiti, given the country’s current security concerns. However, Cruise Critic’s Editor-in-Chief, Colleen McDaniel, describes Labadee as a “Royal Caribbean’s insulated private destination,” highlighting its accessibility exclusively to cruise ship guests and its operation as an extension of the onboard experience. For those apprehensive about shore visits, staying aboard the ship remains an option.
Guests who recently visited Labadee report feeling safe and enjoying the well-managed resort, seemingly unaffected by the events unfolding in other parts of Haiti. With activities ranging from snorkeling to catamaran trips, Labadee continues to be a highlight for many travelers, showcasing the cruise line’s commitment to offering a safe and enjoyable experience despite the broader challenges facing the country.
