Royal Caribbean Extends Pause on Labadee Visits: What Travelers Need to Know 🌴

Royal Caribbean has officially extended its suspension of visits to Labadee, Haiti, through at least April 2026. What was once a temporary pause has now turned into a long-term adjustment, reshaping dozens of itineraries and leaving many travelers curious about what this means for their upcoming cruises.

What Makes Labadee So Special?

Labadee has long been one of Royal Caribbean’s most beloved stops. Nestled on the northern coast of Haiti, this private beach paradise offers everything from soft white sand and turquoise waters to thrilling activities like the Dragon’s Breath zip line and jet-skiing. For many cruisers, Labadee is the highlight of their itinerary, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Why the Pause Has Been Extended

While Labadee itself is a private and secured resort, Haiti has faced significant political instability and rising security concerns. Royal Caribbean has made it clear that guest safety is the top priority. Extending the pause ensures that travelers and crew members are not put at risk while the region remains unstable.

Which Cruises Are Impacted

The suspension affects more than 40 itineraries across a variety of ships, including some of Royal Caribbean’s most popular classes. Ships like the Oasis of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas have seen their schedules adjusted.

Instead of Labadee, many itineraries are being reworked to include replacement destinations such as Nassau in the Bahamas, Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Cozumel in Mexico, Grand Turk, San Juan, and Falmouth in Jamaica. Some cruises are adding extra sea days, giving guests more time to enjoy the onboard experiences Royal Caribbean is famous for.

What This Means for Booked Guests

If your cruise was originally scheduled to stop at Labadee, here’s what you can expect:

• Direct communication: Guests are notified of itinerary changes by email or through their travel advisors.

• Refunds for excursions: Any shore excursions booked for Labadee are automatically refunded.

• Alternate destinations: Replacement ports or extra sea days are provided to ensure guests still receive a full vacation experience.

It’s a good idea to log into your booking or connect with your travel agent to see the latest updates for your specific sailing.

Looking Ahead

This extended pause underscores the importance of flexibility when traveling. While Labadee remains a favorite destination, it is unlikely to reopen to cruise traffic until Haiti stabilizes and security concerns improve.

In the meantime, cruisers still have plenty to look forward to. The Caribbean is filled with incredible alternatives, from the lively culture of San Juan to the pristine beaches of Grand Cayman. Many travelers may even discover a new favorite port of call they might not have chosen otherwise.

Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean’s decision to extend its pause on Labadee visits reflects a strong commitment to safety while also preserving the guest experience by offering exciting alternative destinations. Though many cruisers will miss the stunning beaches and signature activities of Labadee, the Caribbean continues to deliver unforgettable adventures at every turn.

For now, the best advice is to stay flexible, keep an eye on your itinerary, and embrace the opportunity to explore new destinations along the way.