Royal Caribbean suspends visits to Haiti amid rising safety threats

Haiti has become a focal point of international attention due to severe safety concerns stemming from rampant crime, including kidnappings and civil unrest. On July 15, 2025, the U.S. Department of State elevated Haiti's travel advisory to 'Do Not Travel,' warning potential visitors against going to the country due to escalating dangers, such as crime, terrorism, and accountability issues in healthcare. This dire advisory reflects the alarming realities faced by American citizens, who have frequently fallen victim to kidnappers demanding exorbitant ransoms, with victims’ families paying tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars for their release. In response to these grave conditions, Royal Caribbean Cruises has announced a significant change to its itinerary. The cruise line has officially canceled all scheduled visits to its private port in Labadee, situated on Haiti's northern coast, until at least April 2026. A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean conveyed that the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” given the current safety risks in Haiti. The cruise company, known for providing travelers with tropical beach experiences, has paused 41 itineraries that included stops at Labadee, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its guests. The ban on visits comes as the travel industry is experiencing a resurgence following the pandemic. Many travelers are eager to return to cruising, with a projection from AAA indicating that 19 million Americans are expected to embark on cruises in 2025. Industry experts, like Stewart Chiron, anticipate a record year for cruising with growing demand in popular destinations like the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. Despite this optimism for cruise travel overall, the situation in Haiti poses a significant risk that cannot be overlooked, causing major cruise lines to reconsider their operations in the region. Royal Caribbean maintains that the beautiful natural environment of Labadee, featuring pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush landscapes, will remain a target for hopeful travelers once conditions improve. The cruise line reassures its customers that it is actively communicating updates directly with guests who may have been affected by the itinerary changes. Conversely, travelers contemplating Caribbean cruises will need to weigh the thrill of experiencing new locations against the realities of travel advisories that highlight safety concerns such as those currently observed in Haiti.