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Labadee (Haiti) Royal Caribbean Cruise Port Guide and Review (2023)

Essential guide to the cruise port in Labadee (Royal Caribbean's private resort in Haiti): where ships dock, the terminal, how to get around, best things to do, how to explore on your own and shore excursions, beaches, cabanas, shopping, lunch, and all must-know.

By: Editor-in-Chief Updated: May 30, 2023

Unlike what you may read in less accurate reviews, Labadee is not an island. The cruise port of Labadee is in an enclosed peninsula in Haiti with a vast area that is, in reality, a gatted resort for the exclusive privilege of passengers of Royal Caribbean.

Cruise passengers are not allowed outside the gated area and cannot access Haiti. Not even on shore excursions.

• Where is Labadee

Where cruise ships dock

• How to get around
• Top things to do in Labadee
• Beaches in Labadee
• Cabanas, bungalows and beach loungers
• Lunch and drinks
• Shops and shopping
• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Must-know: language, currency and more
• Safety, travel advisory and Covid-19

Labadee is a regularly visited port of call on Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries during the Fall-Winter season. Most cruises calling at Labadee depart from Miami or Orlando, visiting one or two other ports like CocoCay, Nassau, Key West, Falmouth, or Grand Cayman. Some 8-night cruises will call at ports like San Juan, St Maarten, and Antigua. In 2019, there were over 160 cruise ship calls at Labadee, with 720,000 passengers visiting the resort.

Where is Labadee and the cruise port

Labadee is on the north coast of Haiti, 32 miles (51.3 km) west of the Dominican Republic. The closest cruise port to Labadee is Grand Turk, around 134 miles (215 km) to the north. However, the Grand Turk cruise terminal is a Carnival Corporation development, and Royal Caribbean cruise ships do not include it in their itineraries. Labadee is 657 miles (1,057 km) southeast of Miami.

The cruise port in Labadee has a 0.25-mile (400 meters) pier extending south into the ocean. More precisely, into Buccaneer's Bay. It has one berth where extra-large ships like Royal Caribbean's Oasis class can dock. At the end of the pier, cruise passengers enter the main gate to the property. You will not find land transportation between the ship gangway and the entrance of the 260-acre private resort.

Cruise terminal services and amenities

There isn't a cruise terminal building as such in Labadee. However, passengers will find all services and amenities near the resort's entrance.

On the right side, in an area known as Buccaneer's Bay, you will find a Trading Post with all sorts of beachwear (t-shirts, sunglasses, hats, and so on) for those that forgot something onboard or at home. And there are also two large desks to book tours and get information for activities such as:

• Parasailing
• Deep-sea fishing
• Speed boat adventure

Behind the shore excursions counters is the meeting point for these activities and also lockers to leave your stuff whilst on tour. Walking 300 feet straight into the resort, your will also find the following:

• Dragon’s Tram Station
• Information Center and Meeting Point
• Dragon’s Café
• Beach wheelchairs

How to get around in Labadee

Although there isn't a shuttle bus in Labadee, most cruise travelers walk the gangway into the pier, not realizing there are a few very convenient ways to explore the resort. Some cruisers may not realize how easy it is to walk around and how Labadee is very accessibility friendly.

Columbus Cove Express the tender boat

A tender boat specially designed by Royal Caribbean docks right by the gangway. This double-decker type of water taxi takes passengers to Columbus Cove, the farthest beach in Labadee. Named Columbus Cove Express, the tender boat service is free and takes a few minutes to sail ½ a mile (800 meters) to Columbus Cove.

There is also a free tram running continuously between the Dragon Tram Station (by the entrance of the resort) and the Columbus Cove Tram Station on the East side of the property. There are a couple of stops along the way: the Barefoot Tram Station and the Town Square Tram Station. Using the Columbus Cove Express to get to the farthest beach and returning with the tram is a great way of exploring Labadee.

Because Labadee is just over ½ mile (800 meters) long and no more than ⅓ mile (400 meters) wide, walking is a comfortable way to get to all and every attraction of Labadee. All paths and trails are paved. There are many shaded places to rest, and there is excellent signage along the way. Paths are well-marked, color colored, and divided into leisure (green), moderate (amber), and strenuous (red).

Acessibility: wheelchairs and scooters

Cruisers with mobility difficulties will find beach wheelchairs right by the resort's entrance. And you can easily take wheelchairs to all food and beverage venues, restrooms, beaches, and all tram stops. Passengers traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter will find it easy and comfortable to explore Labadee.

21 Top Things to Do on a cruise to Labadee

Many if not most of the top things to do in Labadee are offered on shore excursions but there are quite a enjoyable free attractions to enjoy.

• Relax on one of the three free beaches. More about the beaches of Labadee on this page.
• Enjoy adrenaline rush on the Dragon’s Breath Zipline.
• Ride down the Dragon’s Tail Coaster.
• Slip down the Dragon’s Splash Waterslide.
• Jump around the Arawak Aqua Park.
• Rent a cabana, a bungalow or a beach loungers. Keep reading to learn about cabanas.
• Taste a complimentary barbecue lunch. More about dining and drinks on this page.
• Enjoy a Labadoozie, the signature cocktail.
• Visit the shops at the Artisan's Market and the Artisan’s Village. More about shopping on this page.
• Play basketball, volleyball, or soccer.
• Guided snorkeling.
• Go for a high-speed jetski ride.
• Sail on a 62-foot luxury yacht.
• Paddle a Kayak Columbus Cove.
• Sightsee on an speedboat.
• Reel in a trophy on a 25-foot fishing vessel.
• Fly-in tandem on a parasail.
• Getaway to a secluded sandbank.
• Escape to Amiga Island.
• Sightsee the coast of Haiti.
• Walk the scenic trails of Labadee.

The beaches in Labadee

Unlike what you may read in lesser accurate reviews, there are four beaches in Labadee but one of them is for the exclusive use of passengers cruising on the Grand Suites of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

Barefoot Beach

Barefoot Beach is for the exclusive use of passengers cruising on the Grand Suites of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

Adrenaline Beach

Adrenaline is on the north shore of the resort and the largest beach in Labadee. The floating bar is one of the signature features of this beach.

Columbus Cove

On the shore of a southern bay, Columbus Cove is the remotest beach in Labadee. The best way to get there is with the Columbus Cove Express.

Nellie's Beach

On the southern shore of Labadee, Nellie's Beach is small, secluded, and with excellent cabanas. .

Cabanas, bungalows, beach loungers, and beach beds in Labadee

Passengers cruising in Grand Suites and above can access the Barefoot Beach Club with luxurious cabanas and an oceanview spa. All other passengers may book different cabanas categories, beach bungalows , beach loungers , and beach beds . Here are all types of beach retreats and prices.

• Cabana over the water at Nellie's Beach. Price: US$579.00 for eight guests.
• Waterfront cabana at Nellie's Beach. Price: US$579.00 for eight guests.
• Beach Cabana at Nellie's Beach. Price: US$395.00 for eight guests.
• Beach Bungalow. Price: US$263.00 for eight guests.
• Beach Beds. Price: US$175.00 for two guests.
• Beach loungers at Adrenaline's Beach. Price: US$48.00 for two guests.

Dining and drinks in Labadee

Do not expect gourmet cusine in Labadee. In fact, all food is cooked onboard your cruise ship and transported to these venues. Think more of a barbecue lunch in a tropical setting than a seating down serviced experince. All bars in Labadee serve signature cocktails, virgin drinks and beers. Cruise passengers with beverage packages can also use these in Labadee.

Complimentary lunch

Lunch in Labadee is served in three venues well placed along the resort.

• Dragon’s Café. Complimentary buffet lunch close to the pier entrance.
• Café Labadee. Complimentary buffet lunch on Adrenaline beach.
• Columbus Cove Café. Complimentary buffet lunch on Columbus Cove.

Bars, Pub and Tavern

Bars in Labadee have different names and are in diverse settings. All are very similar except for the Floating Bar on Adrenaline beach.

• Dragon’s Breath Pub. Bar near the Pier Entrance.
• Floating Bar. Signature bar on Adrenaline beach.
• Schooner Bar. Bar on Adrenaline beach.
• Nellie’s Tavern. Bar on Nellie’s beach.
• Columbus Cove. Bar on Columbus Cove.

There are three main shopping venues with souvenirs, local crafts, and products. The tradings posts sell mainly beachwear (t-shirts, sunglasses, hats, and so on). The Artisan’s Market is a large covered building with the best shopping in Labadee. The Artisan’s Village is a large open-air area with dozens of local artisans selling handicrafts like wooden carvings, paintings, decorative objects, and souvenirs. Purchases have to be paid in US$ cash.

• Trading Posts: Buccaneer’s Trading Post, Barefoot Trading Post and Columbus Trading Post.
• Artisan’s Market. Among others here are some of the shops in the market. Harry’s (fine carved statues and tableware). Les Ateliers Toggart (tapestries, exotic fabrics, and wall hangings). Connie’s (handmade pottery, jewelry, and paper maché). Rum of Haiti (world-famous Barbancourt rum and liqueurs). Carlos (hand-decorated skirts, dresses, shorts, and shirts). Gallerie Trois Visages (distinctive art by some of Haiti’s best).
• Artisan’s Village. It is great fun to see some of the artisans work on their handicrafts. In particular, those carving wood or painting. Be prepared to haggle with the artisans to get a better deal but have in mind the dreadful life most have on the other side of the fence.

Shore excursions and tours

Celebrity Cruises offers as many 19 shore excursions and Royal Caribbean lists 43 cruise excursions .

Because Labadde is an area for the exclusive use of Royal Caribbean cruise ships and its sister brands, private online services and local tour operators do not offer shore excursions in Labadee.

Must-know: language and currency

Currency and purchases.

The US dollar is the only currency accepetd in Labadee. You will need cash to pay for purchases in the Artisan’s Market and the Artisan’s Village. For all other puchases passengers need to pay with their boarding card.

You may hear french creloe spoken by the artisans in the Village but everyone else speaks english.

Beverage Packages

Passengers with beverage packages can use these in Labadee. All other passages can only pay for beverages with the boarding card.

Fresh Water

Water in the restrooms is NOT intended for drinking. Drinking water is available at all bar locations and cafés, where lunch is served.

Unlike what happens onboard your cruise ship, you will not find towel stations in Labadee. Remember to bring yours from the ship and not leave it behind.

Lounge chairs

Just as onboard your cruise ship, lounge chairs are complimentary. This also applies to hammocks found throughout the beaches in Labadee.

Floating mats

There are floating mats available for rent at Nellie's beach and Columbus Cove. Price: US$ 19.00

Health and First Aid

There is a First Aid Station in Labadee manned throughout the day.

There are designated smoking areas throughout Labadee. In particular close to tram stops.

Safety, US travel advice and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Haiti see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advise for cruises to Labadee (Haiti)

Although the private resort is fenced off from Haiti, 100's of local residents are employed by Royal Caribbean to work at the resort. Surelly, measures to prevent Coronavirus in Labadee will be implemented and enforced prior to cruise ships docking. But it doesn't hurt to have more updated info and travel advice - more about Covid-19 at the bottom of this article.

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Labadee and Haiti visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Haiti . For more Traveler's Health advice to Haiti see the CDC Website travel to Haiti information .

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The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursion of Labadee Cruise Port. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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Labadee Haiti – The Caribbean’s Most Adventurous Port

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 1 February, 2024

Excursions and Things To Do In Labadee Haiti – Royal Caribbean’s Port

Rocket down the hill on the Dragon’s Tail Alpine Coaster in Labadee

Dragon’s Tail Coaster – Labadee’s Alpine Coaster

From 500 feet up to just inches above the water – the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line is a lot of fun

Dragon Breath Flight Line – The World’s Longest Overwater Zipline

Cruising 400′ above beautiful Labadee

Parasailing

Glide 400 feet above Labadee tied to a colorful parachute while visiting the island. You’ll get stunning aerial views of the Labadee port and of the cruise ships parked in the calm bay. From high above you’ll see the true beauty of Labadee with its lush green hills and stunning beaches and colorful water .

Wave Jet Tour – Jet Skiing

Arawak waterpark, relaxing side of labadee haiti, barefoot beach club of labadee haiti.

Drone shot of Nellie’s Beach

Nellie’s  Beach – Labadee

Lounging in the Cabanas in Labadee

Beach Cabanas in Labadee Haiti

Labadee haiti craft market, oceanview spa, next time you’re deciding which cruise to take, make sure it makes a stop at labadee, haiti.

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Pin me for later!

This post was sponsored by Royal Caribbean. Thanks for inviting us on such an epic Caribbean cruise. As always all opinions are our own.

Barbara Richards

Saturday 8th of June 2019

Have been there 4 times and still love coming back there. Labadee is a very relaxing place.

Saturday 1st of July 2017

I swear there are beautiful places on Earth and thanks to you...I and a million plus people have known they exist. Thanks for the photos.

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Thank you for the kind words. The world is full of amazing places and we hope to inspire those to travel to them through our photos.

Nitin Khanna

Tuesday 16th of May 2017

Wow! I just badly love with adventurous spot. It makes me crazy to visit as soon as possible at Labadee Haiti. Great Information and I am going to plan my next trip for Labadee Haiti without any delay.

Pictures are Awesome! Thanks for Sharing.

Tuesday 30th of May 2017

Thanks Nitin, Labadee is a great port in the Caribbean, we had a lot of fun there!

17 Top Things to Do in Labadee Haiti: 1-Day Port Guide

If you’re researching Caribbean cruises that visit Labadee Haiti, you’re in for a treat. There are many great things to do in Labadee, from relaxing at Adrenaline beach to flying over the water on one of the longest zip lines in the Caribbean.

Labadee is one of Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, on a peninsula in Haiti. It has great white sand beaches, a couple thrilling activities, and a ton of natural beauty.

I’ve been on dozens of Caribbean cruises and visited Labadee a couple times. Keep reading for a list of all the free and paid things to do in Labadee and my recommendations for how to spend your port day.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Free Things to Do in Labadee Haiti

1. adrenaline beach.

The number one thing to do in Labadee is spend the day at Adrenaline beach. There are two main reasons this is my top choice: it’s free and it’s the best beach at the resort.

Adrenaline beach is the largest beach, and runs the full length of one side of the peninsula. Since the beach is so long, you can have a completely different experience depending on which part you visit.

I recommend walking all the way to the far end of the beach. Here, you will find a floating bar (pictured above), a couple beach bars, a covered bar, and tons of lounge chairs.

The far end of the beach is also close to a buffet for lunch and the artisan market if you want to do some shopping.

Although some parts of adrenaline beach can be wavy, the far end is in a protected cove which is perfect for swimming. This area is also less rocky than other parts of Labadee.

Finally, Adrenaline beach is directly below the Labadee zipline, so it’s fun to watch people zip by.

2. Nellie’s Beach

My second favorite beach in Labadee is Nellie’s cove. It’s the smallest, but has a ton to offer. This is the most protected beach area, which is good for young kids.

There are also private cabanas on this beach that are perched in the rocks, overlooking the beach. These are an extra charge, but if I were to rent a cabana, I would choose one at Nellie’s beach.

The disadvantage to Nellie’s beach compared to Adrenaline beach is there are less nearby amenities. In addition, I prefer the open ocean view from Adrenaline beach to the view of the port you get at Nellie’s.

3. Columbus Cove

Many people rate Columbus Cove as the #1 beach at Labadee. It’s the farthest from the ship, which leads to the smallest crowds. It also has soft sand and calm water for swimming.

Based on all the other blog posts I read, we initially started the day at Columbus Cove. However, we quickly moved to Adrenaline beach, which I much preferred.

My biggest issue with Columbus Cove is the view. From the beach, you have a view of the ship, waterpark, and a bunch of fishing boats and jet skis. The view felt very cluttered and detracted from my vision of a relaxing beach day.

4. Barefoot Beach (suite only)

From everything I’ve read, Barefoot Beach is the best beach in Labadee. However, it is restricted to Pinnacle Crown and Anchor members and suite guests.

I was neither of those things during my most recent visit, so I can’t speak directly to the quality of this beach.

5. Explore the Nature Trails

One of my favorite things about Labadee compared to other private destinations, like Cococay, is how it incorporates the natural aspects of the destination.

Instead of being industrialized, Labadee is constructed around the hills, jungle, ruins and natural landscape of Haiti.

The best way to explore the natural part of the island is on the paved nature trails. There are three different paths you can take of varying lengths, that are color coded for easy navigation.

However, I prefer to simply wander them, seeking out good views and photo opportunities. I recommend exploring the trails when you first arrive in Labadee, before it gets too hot.

6. Shopping at the Artisan Market

In addition to showcasing Haiti’s natural beauty, Labadee also does a decent job of showcasing the local culture. At many private destinations, you won’t interact with a single local person.

At Labadee, you can visit the Artisan Craft market, which is run by local Haitian people. They sell a variety of handcrafted art and souvenirs.

Many people complain that the vendors are pushy. However, I found them to be very kind and helpful. Remember, you are visiting their home and they are simply trying to make an honest living.

It is standard to barter for goods, so expect to reduce the starting price by around 20-30%. This is a great place to purchase a meaningful memento of your trip.

Excursions in Labadee (extra cost)

1. Dragon’s Breath Zipline

One of the most iconic and unique things to do in Labadee is the Dragon’s Breath Zipline. It’s the longest overwater zipline in the Caribbean, and will reward you with amazing views.

The excursion starts on the practice course where you will learn how to zipline, get a safety briefing, and try out a short zipline.

After practicing, you will be transported up to the big Zipline at the top of the hill. You can either go in a sitting or a superman position and will soar over the Haitian jungle, beach, and Caribbean ocean.

If you like a thrill, this is my top recommendation for a paid excursion in Labadee.

How much does the Labadee Zipline cost?

The cost of the zip line in Labadee is constantly changing and can vary from one trip to the next. To give you a general idea, the zipline typically costs around $100 per person.

In my opinion, this is expensive for a short excursion, but is definitely worth it to some. You can usually save some money by pre-booking the excursion before you cruise departs.

How long is the zipline in Labadee?

2,600 feet (792 meters)

2. Dragon’s Tail Roller Coaster

Another fun and thrilling excursion in Labadee is the Dragon’s Tail Roller Coaster. This is a one-person mountain coaster that zips through the Haitian Jungle.

You control the speed of your ride with a manual handbrake. Most people think they will not use the brake for a more thrilling ride, but often get too scared and end up using it.

Whether you want to go fast or slow, the coaster is a short and fun activity during your day in Labadee.

How much does the Labadee coaster cost?

Approximately $35 per person

3. Arawak Aqua Park

This waterpark is located between Columbus Cove and Nellie’s beach. It has floating obstacles, trampolines, and water slides.

I personally don’t think this is worth your money, but may be a good option for families with children that have extra energy to burn.

4. Dragon Splash Waterslide

Nearby the aqua park is a waterslide that starts in the jungle and ends along the beach. The waterslide is pretty short and nothing special, so I’d skip this one.

If you’re hoping for a fun water park experience, I recommend the thrill waterpark at CocoCay or resorts in Nassau during other port stops.

5. Snorkel Tour

It is possible to rent snorkel equipment in Labadee. You can also bring your own from home.

While there is decent snorkeling in Labadee, I recommend saving it for better snorkeling ports such as Roatan Honduras or Cozumel Mexico . You will see much better sea life in those places.

6. Jet Ski Rentals

I love any excuse to get out on the water and I think Jet Skis are a great way to do it! The Labadee jet ski rentals are for one hour, which is the perfect amount of time to explore the peninsula and get some thrills.

The jet skis also provide a great vantage point of Labadee, with plenty of amazing photo opportunities.

7. Kayak Rentals

For a slower approach to water exploration, you can rent Kayaks in Labadee. This is another great way to explore the water, get great photos, and even get some exercise.

8. Cabana Rentals

For an extra charge, you can rent private cabanas and daybeds in Labadee. They are a splurge, but provide a nice “home base” during your port day.

My favorite cabanas in Labadee, pictured above are at Nellie’s beach and are tucked back into the jungle. They are also only steps from the water, which is very convenient.

Are cabana rentals worth it in Labadee?

There are three main reasons I recommend renting a cabana during a beach vacation. The first reason is to not stress about finding a beach chair. In Labadee, there is only ever one cruise ship in port, so it’s always easy to find a normal beach chair.

The second reason is to have added shade or space. This is a great option with young kids or infants that can’t be in the direct sun all day, and definitely makes the rental worth it.

The final reason is to celebrate a special occasion with a more bougie experience. If you’re looking for an elevated experience, a cabana rental is a great way to do it! The seating is better quality than a beach chair and you will get improved service.

How much do cabanas cost on Labadee?

As with most added charges on Labadee, the cost of cabanas on Labadee varies by sailing and changes often. Expect to pay between $250-$800 for a cabana rental for one day.

Food and Drink in Labadee

There are a couple buffets and many bars in Labadee, so you will have all you food and drink nearby during your Labadee Port day.

All the buffet food is included with your cruise fare. Some of the items on the buffet include jerk chicken, burgers, hotdogs, salads, fruit, and desserts.

Honestly, I didn’t love the food at Labadee and would consider going back on board for lunch. But it’s hard to beat free food only steps away from your beach chair, so the buffet is great for convenience.

Does my Royal Caribbean drink package work in Labadee?

If you purchased a drink package for your Royal Caribbean cruise, it will work at Labadee. It will include the exact same things it would on the ship.

If you don’t have a drink package, you can purchase drinks from the bars a la carte. Expect to pay the same prices as aboard the ship.

Getting Around Labadee

My preferred way to get around Labadee is on foot. There are walking trails all around the resort and it’s not very large. I can easily walk from one end to the other in around 15 minutes.

There are also shuttles that will take you around which are a great option for elderly, people with mobility issues, families with young kids, or especially hot days. The stops are clearly marked and the trams come often, so you won’t have to wait long.

Labadee Versus CocoCay

Royal Caribbean has two private destinations: Labadee, Haiti and CocoCay, Bahamas. You might be wondering which is better.

The unhelpful answer is that both are great. Someone once said that CocoCay is better for families and Labadee is better for adults, and I’d have to agree.

If you want a resort feel, CocoCay wins. If you want a more local beach day, Labadee wins. Below are the ways each destination succeeds:

How Labadee is Better:

Less Crowds – Labadee only ever has one ship in Port, which CocoCay typically has two. This means Labadee is far less crowded and it’s always easy to find a lounge chair.

More Nature – Labadee is surrounded by the natural beauty of Haiti and has nature trails to explore it. CocoCay feels much more commercials.

Better Culture – The artisan market at Labadee is much larger than the craft market you can find at CocoCay.

How CocoCay is Better:

Better Food – I love the shack chicken sandwich and other food options at CocoCay. I was disappointed by the food at Labadee and wish it would adopt the CocoCay menu.

More Activities – CocoCay has more things to do, such as the pool, adults-only area, thrill waterpark, and Coco beach club. If you’re looking to do more than relax on the beach, CocoCay has better options.

Quick History of Labadee Haiti

Labadee, located on the northern coast of Haiti, is a beautiful spot with a unique history. This area, leased by Royal Caribbean International , is a private resort that’s a bit of a hidden treasure in the Caribbean.

Labadee got its name from Marquis de La Badie, a French settler who lived there in the 17th century. I love that the name ties back to the destination’s history.

Today, Labadee is known for its gorgeous beaches and exclusive feel, but it’s also a place that reminds us of Haiti’s rich history.

Haiti was the first country to become independent in a revolution led by black people, breaking free from French rule.

Even though Labadee is now a luxurious getaway, it still holds onto its historical roots. It’s a great place to visit if you want to enjoy stunning natural beauty while also getting a sense of Haiti’s important past.

Summary: How to Spend 8 Hours in Labadee

Whether its your first time visiting Labadee, or you’ve been many times, there are so many things to do I can guarantee you won’t be bored.

Below are my winners for the best excursions based on your travel preferences. You can opt for a free beach day or splurge for a thrilling zip line ride. What activity would you choose?

Best for Relaxation: Adrenaline Beach

Best for Adrenaline Junkies: Dragon’s Breath Zipline

Best for Local Culture: Shopping at the Artisan Market

Before You Go…

If you’re planning a Western Caribbean cruise , you may be wondering what other islands are worth visiting. If you already have a cruise booked, I’m sure you’re wondering what to do in your other ports.

Either way, be sure to read my guide to the best Western Caribbean cruise ports .

FAQ – Royal Caribbean Labadee

The best beach in Labadee Haiti is Adrenaline Beach. The portion of the beach near the floating bar is nearby multiple bars, a buffet, basketball courts, and the mountain coaster. This portion of the beach is in a protected bay with soft sand and calm water for swimming. It also has amazing open ocean views.

Labadee is owned by the Haitian government, but is leased to and operated by Royal Caribbean cruise line until 2050. Royal Caribbean handles all the food, drink, excursions, and staffing on at the resort.

Yes, Labadee is safe. Although there is some unrest in other parts of Haiti, Labadee has private security and gates run by Royal Caribbean, keeping it very safe.

Related Posts:

• Ultimate Royal Caribbean Southern Caribbean Cruise Guide And Itinerary
• Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise Tips And Itinerary
• Best and Worst Caribbean Cruise Ports for Vacationers
• 7 Most Popular Western Caribbean Islands & Cruise Ports
• CocoCay Bahamas Things To Do & One Day Itinerary

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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Royal caribbean cancels cruises to haiti amid ongoing turmoil there.

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Turmoil in the Caribbean has prompted the Royal Caribbean cruise line to “temporarily make adjustments to sailings” to a popular destination in the area.

As Haiti continues to be destabilized by vicious gangs, Royal Caribbean will not sail to the peninsula of Labadee on the country’s north coast in May, the Independent reports .

Royal Caribbean’s travel pause to Labadee began in mid-March, as airports closed and flights were canceled .

At the time, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his planned resignation amid the upheaval.

Royal Caribbean’s “Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti,” a spokesperson for the cruise line told the Independent.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew and communities we visit are our top priority,” the rep added.

Ships and itineraries facing disruption in May include Allure of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, per the Independent.

“We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly,” Royal Caribbean said in its statement.

The US State Department began warning Americans not to travel to parts of Haiti , like the capital, Port-au-Prince, in July 2023 because of kidnappings, crime, civil unrest and poor healthcare.

Earlier this month, private operations were launched by former New York Giant Jack Brewer to get Americans in Haiti out safely .

As the situation worsens, Port-au-Prince has been described as a “battlefield,” where notorious gang leaders are deliberately burning down homes.

Gangs have also stormed a prison and helped about 4,000 prisoners escape .

Millions are struggling with hunger as many ports and supply routes are cut off while more than 360,000 people have been displaced by the violence, according to the United Nations.

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Why is Royal Caribbean Canceling Cruise Stops to Popular Private Island?

R oyal Caribbean has canceled stops to its popular private island, Labadee, in Haiti. This decision was made due to the country’s major violence and instability. 

Royal Caribbean’s Labadee

Labadee is a beautiful resort on the northern coast of Haiti. It has stunning white sand beaches, a 2600-foot zip line over the water, and an aqua park. It has been a popular stop for Royal Caribbean cruise ships for years, but the recent surge in violence in Haiti has made it unsafe for visitors. 

Haiti is on the Do Not Travel List

Haiti currently has the highest travel advisory of Level 4 – Do Not Travel. The US Department of State has advised Americans not to travel to Haiti due to the high risk of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor healthcare infrastructure. The situation has become so dangerous that non-emergency US government personnel and their families have been asked to leave Haiti immediately. 

Kidnapping is a common and widespread occurrence in Haiti, with US citizens often among the victims. Violent crime is also prevalent, with travelers frequently followed and attacked shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince airport. 

When the US Department of State first made Haiti a Level 4 – Do Not Travel destination in July 2023, Royal Caribbean continued to maintain its regular cruise itinerary, making stops at its private island, Labadee. This was because the island is remote, located 130 miles from Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and is only accessible to Royal Caribbean cruise passengers and staff. 

However, with the recent escalation of violence in Haiti, Royal Caribbean has decided to cancel all stops in Labadee temporarily. The company is rerouting many Caribbean cruises that originally had Labadee as a port of call to other cruise ports, such as Perfect Day at CocoCay, another Royal Caribbean private island. 

For now, the cancellation is for April and May cruises. Royal Caribbean will continue monitoring the situation in Haiti to ensure the safety and security of its passengers and staff. Check out the most dangerous cruise ports in the world .

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Travel | Royal Caribbean breaks ground on Nassau beach club

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Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is a 17-acre development in Nassau, The Bahamas set to open in 2025. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Bahamas government and Royal Caribbean executives break ground during a cermony for the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau set to open in 2025. From left to right: Phylicia Woods-Hanna, director of investments of The Bahamas; Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International; Dr. Michael Darville, minister of health and wellness of The Bahamas; Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group; Philip Davis, prime minister of The Bahamas; Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International; I. Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation of The Bahamas; JoBeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport of The Bahamas; Philip Simon Jr., president and general manager, Royal Beach Club and Royal Caribbean International Bahamas; and Russell Benford, vice president of government relations – Americas, Royal Caribbean Group. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Royal Caribbean and the government of the Bahamas broke ground Monday on the joint venture to develop a strip of land in the cruise port of Nassau called Paradise Island.

The government in 2023 gave the OK for the cruise line to develop a 17-acre portion into what will be called Royal Beach Club Paradise Island when it opens in 2025. Cruise line executives and government officials, including Prime Minister Philip Davis, grabbed shovels along the white sandy beaches with turquoise water in the background.

“With the signing of the deal [for] Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, we embark on this project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” Davis said. “Signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry.”

The site is on the western edge of the strip of land that runs alongside the waterway through which ships brought nearly 4.5 million passengers in 2023, making Nassau the world’s busiest cruise port of call.

Royal Caribbean’s site expects about 2,000 visitors a day. They will be ferried over from the port but then return by land going through downtown Nassau.

It’s the first site for the smaller-sized beach club private destination Royal Caribbean plans to build out as opposed to its private island and resort destinations such as Perfect Day at Coco Cay in the Bahamas and Labadee on Haiti’s northern coast.

The Paradise Island spot will play up Bahamian culture alongside traditional offerings such as the beach, cabanas, four food and drink venues and three pools with swim-up bars. The site is being designed by a Bahamian architectural firm, and will give space for local artisan work for sale and live local music.

The project is a public-private partnership under which Bahamians are invited to own up to 49% of it. The plan is for locals to manage the experiences offered at the resort.

The cruise line will own 13 acres of the property while 4 acres go to Crown Land, which is a territorial area owned by the state. The cruise line will also pay a new tourism levy in exchange for the development.

“Marking more than the beginning of the construction process, today’s groundbreaking event symbolizes partnership, momentum and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community,” said Jason Liberty, the cruise line parent company Royal Caribbean Group’s President and CEO. “We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”

The additional attraction to the port augments a $300 million overhaul of the Nassau Cruise Port that had its grand opening last year.

Already the port has expanded its capacity to six ships, including the ability to dock three of the massive Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean at once.

The revamp includes a new terminal building, Junkanoo museum, 3,500-person amphitheater, living coral exhibit plus more entertainment, food, beverage and retail space. Once complete, the port’s capacity will jump to more than 33,000 passengers per day. It had been around 20,000 a day.

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6 Best Cruises Out Of Port Canaveral

By Zachary Laks | Published on April 9, 2024

It's time to start planning your next big vacation. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family-friendly vacation or an extended voyage, you'll find cruises out of Port Canaveral, Florida that tick all your boxes.

When considering one of the cruises out of Port Canaveral, plan extra time before and after your sailing to soak up all the fun that the area has to offer. There's so much to do in Orlando that you could stay for several days and never get bored — music to your ears if you're traveling with children. One of the best things about Orlando cruises is that you have your choice of theme parks to round out your vacation. They're expansive and immersive escapes into playful worlds, not unlike a great cruise. I love tacking on an extra day or two at an Orlando theme park, usually before my cruise departs. I always appreciate the days of racking up thousands of steps traversing a theme park before boarding a cruise, where I know I'll be able to lounge on a deck or relax in a hot tub.

Not far from Port Canaveral, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a great place to spend a day admiring the vast scope of NASA. The center offers one-of-a-kind immersion into space exploration, including the chance to strap into a rocket launch simulator for an adrenaline-pumping thrill.

For those seeking a more peaceful retreat before boarding their cruises out of Orlando, Port Canaveral is near the white sands of Cocoa Beach. Spend the day enjoying calm, low waves — great for year-round swimming, learning to surf and kayaking alongside manatees and dolphins. Or take a seat on an airboat ride through the wetlands for encounters with alligators and, depending on the season, bald eagles, herons and osprey.

Ready to book a cruise to Port Canaveral? Here are the six best cruises from Port Canaveral.

1. Best For A Long Weekend

Set to launch in the summer of 2024, Utopia of the Seas ℠ will be the sixth Oasis Class ship, Royal Caribbean's class of ships packed with adventure and entertainment. The new ship will focus on three- and four-night cruises from its year-round home port in Port Canaveral, with onboard upgrades that include reimagined pool decks, a Giovanni's℠ Italian Kitchen that spans two decks (try the osso buco!) and the new Pesky Parrot tiki bar, serving fruity cocktails on the Royal Promenade. This itinerary  to the Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas ℠ is the best for a long weekend exploring the highlights of The Bahamas, with a day in Nassau followed by a day at Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island destination.

2. Best For Beach Lovers

This exquisite itinerary to the Southern Caribbean on Adventure of the Seas ® routes you to the farthest corner of the Caribbean for some of its best beaches. Sailing on the Adventure of the Seas ® for eight nights from Port Canaveral, you'll stop in ports such as Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; and Kralendijk, Bonaire. Each port will welcome you with easily accessible, powdery sand beaches primed for world-class swimming, snorkeling and diving. You'll have your pick of 86 dive sites at Bonaire National Marine Park with more than 350 recorded fish species known to frequent the waters.

3. Best For A European Adventure

Transatlantic sailings make for such a special vacation, and this 13-night Transatlantic Azores itinerary on Adventure of the Seas ® packs four remarkable ports into the crossing. You'll cruise the Atlantic for the first nine days, living it up on a ship that is packed with ways to play and relax. You'll arrive in idyllic Tenerife in the Canary Islands on the tenth day. Immerse yourself in the local Spanish culture by spending part of your day exploring the Museum of Nature and Archaeology or the Basilica de Candelaria shrine. The cruise continues to Lanzarote, Canary Islands, where picture-perfect colonial mansions line cobblestone streets, then on to the adventurous mountain island of Madeira, Portugal before completing your journey in the charming streets of Lisbon, Portugal.

4. Best For Private Island Getaways

This unique Port Canaveral cruise itinerary  to Bermuda and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Adventure of the Seas ® visits both of Royal Caribbean's private destinations, where paradise is just steps away from the ship. On an eight-night journey, this ship will first cruise to Labadee, the cruise line's private peninsula adventure park and beach. Soak up this private spot by relaxing on the beach, enjoy the destination's signature cocktail specialty, the Labadoozie (a fruity rum cocktail) or opt for a zip line ride that will send you soaring over the ocean. The next private island destination is Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's oasis in The Bahamas. Here you'll port within short distance of pristine beaches, a thrilling water park and countless ways to unwind beneath the palm trees. There's also a stop in Bermuda, home to pink-sand beaches and rum swizzles.

5. Best For Foodies

Foodies will delight in fresh, authentic Caribbean dishes on this itinerary to the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Wonder of the Seas ® . In Cozumel, Mexico you'll find lunch specialties featuring locally caught seafood, often grouper and red snapper fried on a plate with rice and a vibrant salad. In Roatán, Honduras, ceviche is the local favorite, along with fried plantains and baleadas — tacos made with soft flour tortillas. The ship's final port is Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, a charming fishing village where the salbutes  (fried corn tortillas topped with shredded chicken) make a great appetizer to the catch of the day, served hot off the grill.

6. Best For Variety

This seven-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary  on Wonder of the Seas ® is a top choice if you want to change things up and go on a unique adventure in each port. Your first destination is Philipsburg, St. Maarten, where you can tour the island on an ATV, sample rum from a local distillery or end the day with a sunset horseback ride on the beach. When the ship arrives in the U.S. Virgin Islands at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, head straight to Magens Bay, often short-listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Or dive into a snorkeling tour to get face time with some sea turtles and coral reefs. On your final stop, Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, everyone in your group can enjoy a seemingly endless array of activities. If the beach is calling, grab a spot on one of the many cushy beach loungers close to a bar serving up island cocktails that go great with the ocean view. For the adventurous ones, Daredevil's Peak® waterslide is North America's tallest and promises an adrenaline rush.

Encompassing ports of paradise and incredible culture, Orlando cruises are the ideal vacation getaway. Start planning your island escape from Port Canaveral now .

Cruise From Orlando

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PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

FAMILY GETAWAY

WESTERN CARIBBEAN

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