Royal Caribbean Suspends Haiti Stop Due to Escalating Gang Violence – Here’s What Travelers Should Know

As the summer cruise season heats up, Royal Caribbean has pulled the plug on visits to its private destination in Labadee, Haiti, citing rising safety concerns tied to the country’s worsening gang violence.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we have temporarily paused our upcoming visits to Labadee,” the cruise line told Fox News Digital.

Guests were notified directly of the change. Celebrity Cruises, a sister brand under the same parent company, had already rerouted away from Labadee weeks earlier, according to the Miami Herald.

Why Is Royal Caribbean Avoiding Labadee?

The U.S. State Department currently has Haiti listed as a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory due to extreme crime, kidnappings, and limited access to emergency services. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince also recently warned of “widespread protests with potential for violence” involving gangs and law enforcement clashes.

Security expert Chris Grow told Fox News Digital that conditions can shift rapidly. “One minute everything seems fine, and the next it’s time to get back on the ship,” he said.

Grow urged travelers to always keep digital and physical passport copies, know the location of the nearest U.S. embassy, and stay aware of local conditions. “It’s not about fear — it’s about preparation,” he added.

Royal Caribbean’s Alternative Destination

Fortunately, Royal Caribbean has another exclusive Caribbean destination for its guests: Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. This stop features beaches, the region’s largest freshwater pool, water slides, and family-friendly activities.

“It’s a smart move,” said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Network. “Labadee is stunning and offers economic benefits to locals, but guest safety has to come first.”

What’s Happening in Haiti Right Now?

According to the United Nations, at least 5,600 people were killed by gangs in Haiti in 2023. Another 3,700 were kidnapped or injured. Armed groups reportedly control 85% of Port-au-Prince, blocking roads, surrounding government buildings, and even taking over the capital’s airport in March 2024.

One of the deadliest events occurred in December 2024, when 207 civilians were massacred by a gang in Port-au-Prince after being accused of witchcraft. Victims were mutilated, burned, or dumped into the sea.

While Royal Caribbean has said the suspension is “temporary,” no return date has been announced. Given the current unrest, it’s unclear when — or if — Labadee will return to regular cruise itineraries.

What Travelers Should Do

• Stay updated with cruise line alerts and itinerary changes
• Monitor travel advisories from the U.S. State Department
• Keep emergency contact details and documents backed up

Bottom line: While Labadee remains a beautiful destination, travelers should prioritize safety and flexibility during this turbulent time in the region.

Fox News Digital’s Caitlin McFall, Azhar Fateh, and Sarah Rumpf-Whitten contributed to this report.

For updates, follow Sarah Rumpf-Whitten on Twitter and LinkedIn, or contact her via email.