MSC Expands in the Caribbean as Royal Caribbean Pauses Labadee Visits Amid Travel Alert
The cruise industry continues to shift with new regional strategies and destination changes. From MSC’s major move into the Southern Caribbean to a developing travel alert impacting Royal Caribbean’s private destination in Haiti, here are the top stories making waves this week.
MSC Cruises Expands Southern Caribbean Presence
MSC Cruises is reinforcing its commitment to the Southern Caribbean by expanding operations in the region. Beginning in November 2026, MSC Opera will homeport in La Romana, Dominican Republic, providing year-round sailings that explore vibrant ports in the Southern Caribbean.
In addition, two more MSC ships are expected to serve the region during the winter season, creating more itinerary variety and reinforcing the cruise line’s ambition to become a major player in Caribbean cruising. This strategic move comes as part of MSC’s broader initiative to offer more localized embarkation options and unique itineraries beyond the traditional Eastern and Western Caribbean routes.
While these sailings will target the Caribbean market geographically, MSC is expected to retain its signature European flair onboard — from Mediterranean-inspired cuisine to Italian-style entertainment and decor. This may appeal to European cruisers seeking familiar touches but could feel less culturally tailored to American guests accustomed to U.S.-based cruise experiences.
Travel Alert Issued for Labadee, Haiti
A travel advisory has been issued for Labadee, Haiti, a private beach destination regularly visited by Royal Caribbean cruise ships. This action follows rising gang violence and civil unrest in Haiti, prompting Royal Caribbean to temporarily remove Labadee from upcoming itineraries.
The U.S. State Department currently lists Haiti under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory due to threats including crime, kidnapping, and political instability. Royal Caribbean has stated that it is pausing visits to Labadee “out of an abundance of caution” and has already begun notifying affected guests.
This marks the second time in a year that visits to Labadee have been suspended. Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean’s sister brand, also removed Labadee from its schedule earlier this year.
Travelers are advised to:
- Monitor updates from their cruise line.
- Check U.S. State Department travel advisories.
- Consider cruise-sponsored excursions in affected regions.
Cruise lines continue to adapt based on real-time safety evaluations, and more information is expected as the situation develops. Royal Caribbean has been substituting Labadee with alternative ports such as Nassau, Grand Turk, Puerto Plata, or CocoCay, or occasionally adding an extra sea day depending on the itinerary.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to track how cruise lines adapt to new opportunities and evolving global conditions.
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