In response to the escalating turmoil in Haiti, Royal Caribbean International has temporarily suspended all calls to Labadee, a picturesque port to the north of the country.
The decision comes amidst growing concerns for the safety of cruise passengers amid heightened unrest and violence.
Royal Caribbean, a prominent player in the cruise industry, emphasized that the suspension is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the well-being of its guests.
The move follows the recent mass escape of nearly 5,000 inmates from the national penitentiary and Croix-des-Bouquets prison, exacerbating the already volatile situation in the country.
Aurora Yera-Rodriguez, Assistant Vice President of Royal Caribbean International, stated, “Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporarily suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet. We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team.”
The decision affects numerous cruise itineraries, with Royal Caribbean taking proactive steps to inform customers who have booked cruises featuring visits to Labadee.
Passengers are being contacted to be informed of the suspension of port visits and any necessary adjustments to their travel plans.
The last ship to dock at Labadee prior to the suspension was the Freedom-class vessel “Liberty of the Seas,” which made a stopover on Wednesday.
However, upcoming visits by the “Oasis of the Seas,” “Symphony of the Seas,” and “Adventure of the Seas” are among those affected by the cancellations. These cancellations span Thursday and the upcoming weekend.
Labadee, a private destination owned by Royal Caribbean International, is renowned for its stunning beaches and recreational activities, making it a popular stop for cruise ships navigating the Caribbean.
However, in light of the deteriorating security situation in Haiti, the cruise line has opted to prioritize passenger safety above all else.
The decision underscores the challenges faced by the tourism industry in regions marked by political instability and civil unrest.
While Labadee has traditionally been a highlight of Caribbean cruise itineraries, recent events have prompted Royal Caribbean to exercise caution and take proactive measures to mitigate potential risks to its passengers and crew.
Royal Caribbean’s suspension of Labadee visits serves as a reminder of the broader impact of geopolitical events on the travel sector.
As the situation in Haiti continues to unfold, the cruise industry and travellers alike will be closely monitoring developments, with safety remaining paramount in all decisions concerning travel to affected regions.
While the temporary suspension may disappoint some passengers eager to experience the beauty of Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s prioritization of safety underscores its commitment to ensuring a secure and enjoyable travel experience for all those aboard its ships.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
