Location & Transportation
A quick heads-up before you read on: as of my latest update, Royal Caribbean has paused all cruise calls to Labadee. The cruise line stopped visiting the port of Labadee in March 2024, resumed calls in October 2024, and last called in the first quarter of 2025. But for most of the past year, Royal Caribbean ships have avoided the island nation. The suspension has since been extended through June 2027, continuing a pause that began in April 2025 following the deterioration of the country’s security situation. If Labadee is on your itinerary, it will most likely be swapped for another stop, so treat the rest of this guide as a portrait of what Labadee is like when ships are calling — and something to look forward to whenever it reopens.
Labadee is a specially designed and secured resort area where cruise ships, including the large Oasis-class vessels, dock at a modern pier completed in late 2009. The entire resort is fenced, ensuring a safe environment for guests throughout your visit. On arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by local staff hired by Royal Caribbean and find that all shopping and activities are arranged within the secure premises.
A little-known fact: the name Labadee comes from Marquis de La Badie, a French settler from the 17th century. The spelling was later simplified to “Labadee” to make it easier for English speakers to pronounce.
Sightseeing
Labadee itself offers a charming mix of natural beauty and adventure. Even though guests can’t leave the resort area, there’s plenty to explore:
- Enjoy the soft, sandy beaches and sparkling blue waters.
- Float above the peninsula with a parasailing ride that offers a bird’s-eye view of Labadee.
- Discover the vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or kayaking in the calm bays.
- For thrill-seekers, a ride on a wave runner along the scenic coastline provides a unique perspective of your cruise ship from the water.
- Relax on the shore and take in the tropical surroundings or capture some memorable photos.
Tours & Excursions
Even though Labadee is a self-contained resort, there are plenty of on-site excursions and activities to keep you busy:
- Use the free tram service at the Dragon Tram Station to quickly get around, with stops like the Columbus Cove Tram Station at the end of the resort.
- At Buccaneer’s Bay, you can sign up for a variety of Royal Caribbean-sponsored shore excursions. Options include:
- Amiga Island escape
- Snorkeling tours
- Paradise Cove visits
- Cultural experiences and a tour of a local village
- Deep-sea fishing
- Speedboat adventures
Each activity is designed to let you experience a slice of the Caribbean lifestyle while remaining within the secure, guest-only confines of Labadee.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
The Artisan’s Market at Labadee is a great spot to pick up local crafts and souvenirs. Here, a select group of Haitian merchants—hired directly by the resort—showcase a range of handmade items and art. It’s a perfect way to take home a unique piece of Haitian culture.
Dining
Dining options within Labadee reflect the vibrant Caribbean spirit. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual beach snack or a more formal meal, you’ll find a variety of choices featuring local Haitian and Caribbean flavors mixed with international cuisine. As you wander around, keep an eye out for beachfront cafes and pop-up food stands serving fresh, tropical fare.
Culture & Local Events
Labadee offers a taste of Haitian culture right within its secure gates. While the resort is designed exclusively for cruise guests, here are some cultural insights and local tips:
- Even though transactions inside the resort often use a voucher system or credit card, it’s good to know that the local currency is the Haitian Gourde (HTG). Outside the resort, you’ll notice the striking contrast between modern amenities and the traditional way of life in Haiti.
- Royal Caribbean often organizes live Haitian music, dance performances, and cultural showcases on the beach, letting you enjoy the local arts without leaving the property.
- The resort’s design and the controlled presence of Haitian merchants offer a curated glimpse into the local culture while ensuring your safety.
- Safety is a top priority: Labadee is completely fenced and patrolled by a dedicated security team, so you can relax and focus on your day of adventure.
Safety & Awareness
- The entire area is secured, and a professional security force is on hand to ensure a safe environment.
- Even though you are in a protected setting, always keep an eye on your belongings during activities and excursions.
- Bear in mind that Labadee sits within Haiti, which remains under a U.S. State Department Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. That’s the backdrop to Royal Caribbean’s decision to pause calls, and it’s worth keeping in mind when planning any trip that lists Labadee.