haitian sailing yacht experience royal caribbean

Top 5 Shore Excursion Options at Labadee - Royal Caribbean's Private Destination in Haiti

Updated: Jul 27

Located on Haiti's north shore, Labadee is one of Royal Caribbean's private destinations, and a popular cruise stop of Royal fans. This day resorts offers pristine beaches, stunning views, delicious dining, and many incredible shore excursions. Whether you want to relax on a beach, or fly high over the water on a zipline, Labadee has many incredible activities that you can book ahead of time. Here are the top 5 shore excursions you can enjoy while at Labadee:

Dragon's Tail Coaster

Duration - All Day Access

High up on the mountain above the Labadee peninsula sits the thrill-inducing Dragon's Tail Coaster. This mountain coaster takes guest from the top, all the way back down to the base of the mountain. You have your own break for speed, so you can control the thrill. You will wind your way through the trees, and along the side of the mountain, with stunning views of the sandy beaches below.

Dragon's Breath Zipline

Duration - 1.25 hours

For the ultimate adventure, harness-up and take on the Dragon's Breath Zipline. You will be taken by shuttle up to the top of the mountain, and then get strapped in for the 2600 foot ride down, across the beaches, and to the very tip of the Labadee peninsula. It is the ultimate adrenaline rush with the best views in Labadee!

Labadee Snorkel Safari

Duration - 2 hours

Enjoy a relaxing catamaran ride out to the snorkel reef. You will be provided with all the equipment you need, and after a quick briefing, a local guide will take you out into the waters to view the incredible coral reef and wildlife under the water. For those who prefer to stay dry, you can enjoy sunbathing on the catamaran while the rest of the group does the snorkel tour.

Haitian Sailing Yacht Experience

Duration - 3 hours

If you want a bit of coastal luxury while on Labadee, consider booking the Haitian Sailing Yacht Experience. Step onboard the 62 foot sailing yacht with a captain and crew and a small number of friends and family. Lounge on the spacious yacht deck, sip on cold beverages, and sail past gorgeous coastlines and small seaside villages. The captain will drop anchor in a secluded bay off a remote island, and you and your group can enjoy a refreshing swim or a nap in the sun. This is the ultimate way to relax while at Labadee!

Amiga Island Experience

Take a scenic boat tour around the majestic Amiga Island. This small island features stunning beaches and beautiful coral reefs. Step off the boat and enjoy a complimentary signature cocktail as you relax on the beautiful beach. Bring your snorkeling gear and head out into the water to discover the colorful reefs and exotic fish living around the island. Amiga Island is the perfect way to spend a beach day away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Labadee.

Booking Your Cruise

Now that you are ready to book your cruise to Labadee, reach out to the experts at Harr Travel. We know the private destinations inside and out, and have an amazing relationship with Royal Caribbean. Our advisors will book the cruise vacation of a lifetime for you, your friends, family, or group at an exceptional rate, and give you the Harr Travel signature service every step of the way.

[email protected]

• Royal Caribbean

Recent Posts

The Boardwalk Neighborhood Vs. Surfside Family Neighborhood on a Royal Caribbean Ship

What is the "Infinite View Balcony" on a Royal Caribbean Ship?

A Closer Look at Chill Island on Perfect Day at CocoCay

Things to Do in Labadee Haiti for the Day

Royal Caribbean’s private cruise port in Haiti is full of beautiful scenery, exciting experiences, and amazing beaches. Whether you’re looking to enjoy your day by lounging on the beach or by participating in adrenaline pumping activities, Labadee is full of fun things to do. Additionally, Labadee features all kinds of activities to enjoy with kids as well as unique places to find the best views.

Regardless of what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something to meet your needs on Royal Caribbean’s private island in Haiti. In this post, we will provide a full guide to Labadee, the beautiful private peninsula that sits on the north coast of Haiti. We’ll give you an overview of the beaches you’ll find on the island, including a full account of the cabanas available to rent on each beach.

This post will also cover available shore excursions in Labadee as well as a list of free things to do on the island. So, continue reading below for everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s private Haitian paradise – Labadee Haiti.

Beaches in Labadee Haiti

Royal Caribbean’s private island of Labadee offers several different beaches for guests to enjoy. If you’re planning to spend your beach day by sunbathing, building sandcastles, or reading a good book, the beaches in Labadee provide the perfect atmosphere. Below, we will provide a brief overview of the various beaches in Labadee Haiti, including the beach cabanas available (at an additional cost) in each location.

Nellie’s Beach

Nellie’s Beach is located about a ten-minute walk from the pier in Labadee, or you can take the free tram to this popular spot. This small beach area offers calm waters and plenty of beach chairs for guests. Nellie’s Beach is centrally located on the Labadee peninsula, which allows easy access to other activities and entertainment.

Guests will need to walk a bit in order to dine at one of the available spots for lunch, though, as Nellie’s Beach is not home to its own cafe. Still, the walk to Columbus Cove Cafe or Cafe Labadee aren’t too far away. If you are interested in booking a cabana on Nellie’s Beach, you have several options. 

• Over the Water Cabana – Priced at around $1500 per cabana
• Waterfront Cabana – $1200 per cabana
• Beach Cabana – $1000 per cabana

Each of the cabanas holds 8 people, and it includes two floating mats and a cabana attendant.

Columbus Cove

Sitting just past Nellie’s Beach, Columbus Cove offers calm water and views of the Royal Caribbean ship docked at the pier. This beautiful beach is accessible via the free tram or by foot with a roughly 15 minute walk from the ship. You may also notice a tender boat available to take you from the pier to Columbus Cove; although, this isn’t always available.

Families visiting Columbus Cove love the easy access to the lunch buffet and the kid-friendly beach area. Beach loungers are readily available on Columbus Cove, or you can reserve a Beach Bungalow ahead of time. These Columbus Cove cabanas typically cost around $500 per bungalow and include bottles of water, floating mats, and a cabana attendant.

Note that you will not reserve a specific bungalow ahead of time like at Perfect Day at CocoCay . Instead, the beach bungalows are first come first serve upon your arrival to Columbus Cove. We recommend snagging one of the beach bungalows that’s located in the middle. While those cabanas at the far end of the beach may offer more privacy, the tide eventually comes up to those bungalows causing little to no beach space.

Adrenaline Beach

Adrenaline Beach is located on the northern side of the Labadee peninsula, and it offers the most beach space of all the Labadee beaches. While Adrenaline Beach can be really windy and rocky, it offers a unique experience and is often less crowded.

Guests visiting Adrenaline Beach can enjoy views of the zipline, and they have easy access to the floating bar. While you’ll find lots of beach chairs available on Adrenaline Beach, you can also reserve cabanas during your stay.

• Beach Lounger for Two – Priced at around $100 per set (NOT per person) depending on sailing
• Beach Bed – Priced at $400 per bed and holds 4 people (These include four bottled waters, beach towels, and two floating mats.)

Note that with all cabanas and excursions, prices can fluctuate drastically depending on the time of year and ship you are sailing.

Barefoot Beach

While the main beaches are free for cruisers to visit, Labadee also features a private beach for suite guests. Barefoot Beach is the private beach in Labadee that’s available for guests in a Grand Suite or higher. Pinnacle members also have access to this exclusive beach.

↓↓ Check Out My Etsy Shop ↓↓

In addition to the private beach, suite guests (and Pinnacle members) also receive access to Barefoot Beach Cabana Club where they can enjoy a private lunch buffet. Barefoot Beach offers several different cabanas that guests can book in advance. The Labadee beach cabanas you’ll find on Barefoot Beach include the following:

• Barefoot Overwater Cabanas – Priced at around $1500 per cabana depending on your sailing
• Barefoot Waterfront Cabanas – Estimated at $1200 per cabana depending on sailing
• Barefoot Beach Hilltop Cabanas – $1100 per cabana depending on sailing
• Barefoot Beach Standard Cabanas – $1000 per cabana depending on sailing

All of the cabanas allow space for up to 8 people. Each cabana includes bottles of water, two floating beach mats, and a cabana attendant. For a full list of benefits that come with a suite, check out our post on Royal Caribbean Suite Perks !

As you exit the ship and walk onto Labadee, you’ll find yourself in Buccaneer’s Bay. This area features live entertainment to greet cruise passengers along with meeting areas for many of the shore excursions. Guests can reserve excursions for Labadee in the Online Cruise Planner prior to their cruise.

Additionally, you can visit the Shore Excursions desk on the ship to book activities as long as they haven’t sold out. You’ll find lots of things to do in Labadee whether you’re looking to cool off from the sun or partake in adventurous experiences. Some of the shore excursions available in Labadee include the following:

• Speed Boat Tour – Board a speed boat for a guided tour of the coastline, which includes lots of interesting and historical information from the tour guide. This excursion typically runs for about 45 minutes and is available for $45 for guests 10 and older. 
• Speed Boat and Snorkel – Similar to the experience listed above, the Speed Boat and Snorkel excursion allows guests to enjoy an informative ride on a speedboat. Riders are then able to snorkel among sea life and coral reefs for a total excursion time of 1.5 hours. This activity is available for guests ages 10 and up, and it costs roughly $65 per person.
• Parasailing – Guests 12 and older can enjoy a 45 minute boat ride along with a 5 minute parasailing adventure on this excursion. Prices run at around $80 per person.
• Wave Jet Tour – Rent a jet ski for an extra exciting experience that includes beautiful views of Labadee. The minimum age for this activity is 16 and the cost is usually around $105 per driver. (Note that you can add a second person onto your jet ski for around $30 as long as they are 10 years old or older.)
• Dragon’s Breath Flight Line – This Dragon’s Breath zipline in Labadee allows  guests to ride feet first. The minimum height requirement is 48 inches with an estimated cost of $100 per person.
• Dragon’s Fire Flight Line – This zip line in Labadee allows riders to zoom headfirst down the zip line. The minimum height requirement is 48 inches. The cost estimate is $110 per person.
• Dragon’s Tail Coaster – This roller coaster allows you to board a cart and slide down a track at close to 30 mph. The minimum height requirement for this attraction is 54 inches, and riders must be at least 12 years old. The price for a single ride is typically $20 per person.
• Labadee Historic Walking Tour – This is an informational walking tour of Labadee, which costs around $20 for the hour.
• Sailing Yacht Experience – This sailing experience allows guests to enjoy 3 hours on a yacht with stops for swimming. It typically costs around $74 per child and $130 per adult.
• Labadee Traditions – This shore excursion features a 2 hour tour of Labadee, including a short boat ride and cultural experiences in the artisan village. It is typically priced at around $50 per person and is available for guests aged 3 and up.
• Coastal Cruise – This is a catamaran cruise of Labadee that’s full of cultural information. It is usually priced at around $50 per person.
• Island Escape – The Island Escape features a boat ride to the beautiful Amiga Island where you can enjoy the private beach. This excursion is priced at around $60 per person.
• Sportfishing – Labadee Sportfishing is a 3 hour fishing expedition for guests aged 8-75. It typically runs at $140 per child and $240 per adult.
• Paradise Cove Escape and Haitian Village Experience – This excursion includes a visit to the beautiful private beach, Paradise Cove, followed by a guided tour of a Haitian village. This 3-hour long excursion typically costs $60 per child and $80 per adult.
• Labadee Snorkel Safari – This is a two hour catamaran ride and snorkeling adventure for guests 3 years old and above. It can be booked for $45 per kid and $65 per adult.
• Labadee Sip and Paint – This excursion includes free cocktails while painting a handmade souvenir. It is available for guests 3 and older and costs around $50.
• Kayak Adventure – Kayak through the waters of Labadee with a tour guide who offers interesting and historical information about the island. This shore excursion is available for guests 8 and older, and it typically costs around $35 per person.
• Arawak Aqua Park – This inflatable water park is available for guests who are 48 inches or taller and at least seven years old. The cost is typically $20 per person for an hour of fun. (Note that these inflatables are quite difficult to climb on from the water and younger kids may have difficulty.)
• Dragon’s Splash Waterslide – Cool off on this 300 ft. water slide in Labadee for roughly $25 per person for the day. Riders must be at least 7 years old and 48 inches tall.

Free Things to Do in Labadee Haiti

If you’re looking for additional things to do in Labadee, the list below includes some fun options.

• Play at Adventure Ocean Oasis – fun splash pad for kids  
• Pick up a Game of Basketball
• Enjoy the Bocce Ball Court
• Play a Game of Volleyball 
• Visit All the Beaches
• Take a Walk around the Island
• Ride the Free Tram

In addition to the activities listed above, guests can enjoy free food in Labadee in the form of a buffet lunch. The cost of this is included in your initial cruise fare.

What to Bring to Labadee

Depending on the activities you have booked for your day in Haiti, you may need different items. We suggest reading the Royal Caribbean overview on their official website for any shore excursions you have booked.

This should explain exactly what types of clothes and shoes to wear as well as any items to bring with you. If you plan to spend your time on one of the many beaches, we like to bring the following items:

• water shoes (Some beaches are rocky.)
• sunscreen (reef safe)
• Seapass cards
• towels (from the ship)
• camera or phone (Ship Internet does not work on Labadee.)
• collapsible bucket with shovels
• refillable water bottles

For additional information on what to pack for a cruise, we recommend checking out our Ultimate Cruise Packing List . This post includes packing tips for your entire cruise vacation. It also features a free cruise packing list that you can print!

These are the most frequently asked questions about Labadee Haiti. If you have additional inquiries, feel free to comment at the bottom of this post.

Where is Labadee Haiti located on a map?

Labadee sits on the northern coast of Haiti just west of the Dominican Republic. Although it’s often referred to as an island, Labadee is actually a private peninsula used by Royal Caribbean.

Is Labadee Haiti safe?

The private peninsula of Labadee is safe to visit. The resort area is gated off and secured from locals except those who are cleared to work there. In addition, cruise passengers are not able to leave the area unless on a shore excursion.

Does Royal Caribbean provide towels?

Yes, you can grab towels to use on Labadee while on the Royal Caribbean ship. Additionally, some of the cabana rentals include beach towels.

Are the Columbus Cove Beach Bungalows priced per person?

No, the Columbus Cove Beach Bungalows are priced per cabana. Even though the Royal Caribbean app and cruise planner may read “per person,” the bungalow rate is for the cabana. The fine print usually explains this; however, the posted price can be confusing.

Do Royal Caribbean drink packages work on Labadee?

Yes, if you purchased a beverage package for your cruise, it will be honored in Labadee and in Cococay.

What is the best beach in Labadee Haiti? 

Labadee’s beaches are all beautiful, and they all offer a different vibe. We recommend visiting each of the beaches if you have time, so you get a feel for the uniqueness of each one.

If you’re looking for the best beach in Labadee, my family and I usually spend our time in Columbus Cove. Since this beach is free of rocks, it’s a great spot for toddlers and kids to splash in the water or play in the sand.

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Labadee Haiti

Overall, Labadee is a beautiful, private spot to visit while sailing with Royal Caribbean. The peninsula is full of unique beaches, shore excursions, and fun activities that the whole family can enjoy. I want to end by mentioning the Artisan Market on the island where locals sell various types of merchandise.

Prior to visiting Labadee, I heard/read lots of reviews stating the people in the Artisan Village were aggressive and manipulative. Our group of sixteen, including seven kids, did not have an issue walking through this area. Yes, the locals yell at you while trying to get your attention to buy things. But, they all seemed friendly about it.

Additionally, security guards keep the merchants in a specific area; so, they weren’t allowed to approach us while walking outside the market. Many of the merchants will stand at the entrance trying to entice you inside, but we politely declined and kept walking. They all had big smiles on their faces and seemed super friendly. They are usually just eager to find interested buyers.

I mention all of this to say – don’t let any negative reviews of the Artisan Market deter you from visiting this amazing destination. Labadee is full of pristine beaches, fun excursions, and cultural experiences. What are your favorite things to do in Labadee Comment below to share with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

Similar Posts

Scoring an Early Boarding Time on Royal Caribbean

Is the Drink Package Worth It on Royal Caribbean?

When Can You Book Shows on Royal Caribbean?

Oasis of the Seas Restaurants – Complimentary vs Specialty

Ultimate Guide to Royal Caribbean Suite Perks

Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Royal Caribbean International

Labadee safe?

By jsf , October 26, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

Recommended Posts

I see the other day that both the US and Canada have sent armored police cars to help  Haiti  with gang problems, are we safe going again? How is the Labadee area protected from crime?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

There are several threads on this, it comes up pretty often. Labadee is nowhere near Port Au Prince, which is where all the unrest happens.  It is a very long drive between the two.  Royal's area is a secured compound in an area where there's not much else.   

Labadee is walled off w/ armed security, from the rest of Haiti and more than 5 hours from the capital city. Labadee is basically on private island on an outcrop of land. 

You probably shouldn't read Haiti news to judge Labadee as they are completely separate worlds.

smokeybandit

Labadee may be geographically in Haiti, but it's definitely not politically/socioeconomically in Haiti.

Was there just last week - as always, a fun and safe day.

PhillyFan33579

I have been there several times this year and felt very safe there. 

I've been there a few times without issue.  That's about all I can say other than Haiti has, for a long long time (decades) been in political and economic chaos.  Take it for what it's worth!  I'd go back, I think I'd look forward to going back more than going to Coco Cay.    

Joseph2017China

1 hour ago, jsf said: I see the other day that both the US and Canada have sent armored police cars to help  Haiti  with gang problems, are we safe going again? How is the Labadee area protected from crime?

We (the USA) is the protector of the Caribbean. So sending supplies is nothing new.  Everyplace you go, may or may not be as safe as your home.  Depends on what news source you read.  

So, stop listening to the news, go on the cruise to Labadee and enjoy it!

1 hour ago, robmtx said: Labadee is walled off w/ armed security, from the rest of Haiti and more than 5 hours from the capital city.

So gangs of marauding war lords couldn't drive 5 hours if they wanted to?  Any place that is encircled by barbed wire fences doesn't exactly scream carefree vacation.

That being said, I've been to Labadee several times over the years and never felt unsafe.  But it wouldn't be high on my list of itinerary places to visit.

I wonder what Royal's reaction would be if people started en mass to not get off the ship at Labadee any longer.  

If you had no idea what Labadee looked like but were familiar with the struggles of Haiti, and someone kidnapped you, blindfolded you and dropped you there in Labadee...you would have no reason to think you're in Haiti.

Labadee is a very safe destination. You are not giving Royal Caribbean any credit if you think they do not monitor the situation. Yes gangs could drive there but the security is very tight and they want the easy targets. I was there this year and it was great.

1 hour ago, TheHawk1 said: So gangs of marauding war lords couldn't drive 5 hours if they wanted to? 

To do what? Rob people of their seapass card and snorkeling gear?

Mum2Mercury

Just now, smokeybandit said: To do what? Rob people of their seapass card and snorkeling gear?

Exactly -- people don't bring more than a couple dollars in cash to Labadee, which is really just a beach.  Gangs could drive to the area, but they'd gain nothing and face armed guards.  

If I was a gang wanting to rob people at Labadee, and I don't THINK this will happen, I'd go directly to the ship, bypass the people on land, board her and start taking people that are on the ship to their cabins and get them to open their safe(s) and go to Guest Services.  Afterall, ships are very very unsecure.  Most don't have arms available (as I've been told) to them.  Even if they are armed, they are so securely stored, it would take too much time to issue them in an effective manor.  

Again, that's not to say that I think this would happen in Labadee.  JMHO

reallyitsmema

23 minutes ago, swingphi said: Labadee is a very safe destination. You are not giving Royal Caribbean any credit if you think they do not monitor the situation. Yes gangs could drive there but the security is very tight and they want the easy targets. I was there this year and it was great.  

Yes, the cruise line does monitor the situation and has actually skipped the stop in the past when there were unauthorized boats in the area.

1 hour ago, jalves said:  

1 hour ago, smokeybandit said: To do what? Rob people of their seapass card and snorkeling gear?

Kidnapping for ransom would be the more likely play. 

But the guys at the fence with the machine guns are certainly enough of a deterrent that they probably would never try it. 

1 hour ago, Mum2Mercury said: Exactly -- people don't bring more than a couple dollars in cash to Labadee, which is really just a beach.  Gangs could drive to the area, but they'd gain nothing and face armed guards.    

A couple dollars goes a long long way in Haiti but I think in the event of a robbery the criminals would be more interested in the jewelry people wear. The port itself is usually safe, however there have been issues from upset locals surrounding the area by boat. In addition I often find the little craft village to be somewhat sketchy with desperate vendors refusing to take no for an answer. That being said, out of all my travels Jamaica is the port stop I usually feel most uncomfortable. 

2 minutes ago, rolloman said: Jamaica is the port stop I usually feel most uncomfortable. 

Totally with you there!

7 minutes ago, fsjosh said:   Kidnapping for ransom would be the more likely play.      But the guys at the fence with the machine guns are certainly enough of a deterrent that they probably would never try it. 

Serious question;

I've been there a few times and I never saw a fence or anybody armed.  To be honest, I haven't really looked either and I haven't gone beyond Barefoot Beach either.  But, my question, have you seen guys with "machine guns"?  

18 minutes ago, fsjosh said: Kidnapping for ransom would be the more likely play.   

Plenty of targets in the cities for the game.

24 minutes ago, fsjosh said: Kidnapping for ransom would be the more likely play. 

Thing is, kidnapping is a whole other level of crime, and the penalties are big-big.  I don't think this is a realistic concern.  

22 minutes ago, rolloman said: A couple dollars goes a long long way in Haiti but I think in the event of a robbery the criminals would be more interested in the jewelry people wear. 

True, a couple dollars will buy a lot in Hati, but I don't think people wear a lot of jewelry at the beach, and jewelry has to be sold -- I wonder if a poor country like Hati has many options for turning jewelry into cash.  

22 minutes ago, rolloman said:  That being said, out of all my travels Jamaica is the port stop I usually feel most uncomfortable. 

I mostly feel sorry for those people, who have so little opportunity to earn money to support their families.  

14 minutes ago, Ret MP said: Serious question;   I've been there a few times and I never saw a fence or anybody armed.  To be honest, I haven't really looked either and I haven't gone beyond Barefoot Beach either.  But, my question, have you seen guys with "machine guns"?  

Royal Caribbean has designed things so that guests stay near the water /don't go near the gate that the connects the peninsula of Labadee to the main portion of Hati -- but they bring in locals to work, so you know they have a gate.  

Overall, I'm just not nervous about getting off the ship at Labadee.  

20 minutes ago, Ret MP said: Totally with you there!

5 minutes ago, Mum2Mercury said: Royal Caribbean has designed things so that guests stay near the water /don't go near the gate that the connects the peninsula of Labadee to the main portion of Hati -- but they bring in locals to work, so you know they have a gate.  

Pretty sure the zipline excursions have to go out the gate to the top of the mountain.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com Summer 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Ask Me Anything About

Victory Cruise Lines!

Ask Your Questions Today;

See answers beginning August 12th

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this photo by member XFrancophileX to share your review w/ photos too!

Parliament, Budapest

Features & News

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 02:31 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:32 AM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 07:31 AM

LauraS · Started August 15

LauraS · Started August 14

Cruise Planning

Find a cruise, popular ports, member reviews.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• The Cruise Blog
• Cruise Lines
• Cruise Destinations
• River Cruising
• Advertise with Us
• Influencers
• Shipping Rates
• WHSmith Store Finder
• GET OUR MAGAZINE
• Login / Register

Royal Caribbean Mourns the Loss of Captain James MacDonald

A favourite captain within royal caribbean has sadly passed way from a heart attack.

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Captain James MacDonald, a revered and beloved figure in the Royal Caribbean family. On 30th April 2024, Captain MacDonald had to disembark from Harmony of the Seas to seek urgent medical attention in Cozumel, Mexico. The ship made an unscheduled stop, and passengers were informed of his departure via the ship’s public address system. Tragically, on Thursday, news of his passing was finally confirmed.

An internal email from Royal Caribbean disclosed that Captain MacDonald passed away while receiving care in a hospital in Miami. The email praised him as “a valued team member for 34 years, Captain James was an exceptional leader known for his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to our company. His contributions have left a lasting impact on our team and the company as a whole.”

Captain MacDonald’s influence extended far and wide. He played a crucial role in the development of thousands of crew members, including many captains. His leadership was instrumental in Royal Caribbean’s success in Texas cruising, where he is deeply missed by both crew and guests.

To honour his memory, all Royal Caribbean ships will fly their flags at half-mast on Friday 17th May. Radiance of the Seas made a special announcement and blew the ship’s whistle as a mark of respect.

Captain James MacDonald joined Royal Caribbean in 1990 and was the first captain of Radiance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, and Brilliance of the Seas. Most recently, he served as the Master of Harmony of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, ships based in Texas.

The entire Royal Caribbean community mourns the loss of a remarkable leader and a cherished friend. Captain James MacDonald’s legacy will forever be etched in the memories of passengers and crew who had the privilege of sailing under his command.

The Latest Cruise News

25 July 2024

P&O Cruises’ Summer Update Falls Flat Amidst Passenger Outrage

0 Comments 4 Minutes

24 July 2024

Strict Rules You Must Follow on a 2000-Person Nude Cruise

0 Comments 5 Minutes

19 July 2024

Family Stranded in Alaska After Missing Cruise Departure

0 Comments 6 Minutes

Inaugural Call of Borealis Celebrated at the Port of Dover

0 Comments 7 Minutes

9 July 2024

Juneau Delivers a Stern Warning to Cruise Ships with Proposed Ban

0 Comments 2 Minutes

29 June 2024

Ambassador Cruise Line Expands to the US

28 June 2024

Amsterdam’s Bold Move to Relocate Cruise Terminal by 2035

26 June 2024

Russell Howard on the Terror of Becoming a Cruise Ship Comedian

17 June 2024

Greece to Restrict Cruise Visitors from 2025 – The New Venice?

Subscribe to Sail Away Magazine!

Sail Away Magazine is not just another publication; it’s a community where the voices of passionate cruisers converge. Featuring exclusive content from the likes of Kathy Taylor of Cruise Lowdown, Dr. Stephen Payne OBE, the naval architect behind the Queen Mary 2 , and interviews with famous cruise lovers like Jennie Bond, former BBC Royal Correspondent. We offer a unique perspective on cruising. Our pages are filled with engaging content you won’t want to miss! Check out our FAQ’s to discover the full perks!

A lovely Captain it was not unusual to see him on his motorbike on his days off RIP

Our favorite captain we traveled with him on Liberty of the Seas and on Harmony of the Seas he had a voice that was so distinctive and once we were on a ship that was supposed to have another captain and he came on the intercom and we asked the crew and they didn’t even know who the captain was but then verified he had filled in for their regular captain. We often saw him at the Captain’s Corner talk and we know he started from the bottom and made his way up. He always walked around and looked over his ship and was just a generally all around nice guy he will be missed by so many. Prayers of comfort for his family and friends and fellow crew members.

I use to live two doors from James an his family they are such great people Hugs to them words never say enough. The funny thing when I would see James I would say Good Morning Captain or what ever time it may be. When I took my very first Cruse with may late husband it was on the Sovereign of the seas Jim treated everyone nice he will be missed.

Add comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

Subscribe today to the Digital Subscription of Sail Away Magazine for FREE!

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Book a Flight
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Required Travel Documents
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia

St. petersburg shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in st. petersburg.

Czars and Saviors

Front of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia

Located near the waterfront and housed in the former Romanov Winter Palace, the Hermitage Museum sits due north along Nevsky Prospekt from the Church of the Savior on Blood, St. Petersburg's other most iconic attraction.

Discover the Unusual

View of Saint Isaac's square in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg's city center is overflowing with history — why not choose museums that offer something a little different? Visit the quirky Faberge Museum, dedicated to the work of Russian jeweler Carl Faberge. Or enjoy an interactive experience at the Museum of Emotions.

Imperial Excursion

Take a drive to some imperial palaces outside the city center. Under an hour away by car lies exquisite Peterhof, whose fountains alone are worth the price of admission. Cruise to St. Petersburg and go by train to the Baroque-style Catherine Palace — can you guess which Russian ruler often stayed here?

Local Cuisine

Russians flock to St. Petersburg because of its cosmopolitan vibe, but use your stop here to discover local cuisine. Head to the restaurant-rich Nevsky Prospect to sample borscht beet root soup (the cold version in summer), dumplings of meat ( plmeni ) and sour cherries ( vareniki ) or hearty beef stroganoff — yes, that's a Russian dish!

St. Petersburg's shopping options are as grand as its architecture. The luxurious Gostiny Dvor mall is an essential stop with your St. Petersburg cruise. If you're looking for a more down-to-earth experience, try your luck (and your Russian language skills) at Udelnaya Flea Market and bargain for one-of-a-kind antique samovars or imperial porcelain.

Best Deals to St. Petersburg, Russia

These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can.

Departs From {{card.portName}}

Onboard {{card.shipName}} of the Seas

{{ card.totalGroups }} Itineraries

We've circled the globe and couldn't find any sailings that match your search. View All Cruises

We're having trouble retrieving these cruises. View All Results

Similar to St. Petersburg, Russia

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.