Labadee, Haiti is Royal Caribbean’s private destination port. It is located on the northern coast of Haiti. Royal Caribbean leases the location. We have to been to this destination many times. It is a lovely place to go and is one our favorite water sport spots. There are many active things to do, or you can just hang out at one of the beaches.
When you are approaching the port the view of large hills is beautiful. You will also notice lots of smoke rising in the hills. Local people are burning fires.
On the dock there will be dancers and drummers welcoming you. They dance all day in the sweating hot sun. Their energy amazes me, but if you have a balcony room by the time you leave the drumming is driving you crazy. They do this for a living, so of course there is a bucket for money.
Lot’s of people elect to do the zip line, which is crazy long over water. If you are not adventurous, just watching them from the beach or bar screaming all the way down can be entertaining. You can rent jet skis which is really fun, if you like to go 50 to 60 miles per hour. I have done the jet skis. It was lots of fun, but once was enough. I am not a thrill seeker. I enjoyed the kayaks more. All of these things do cost extra though.
If you don’t want to incur any extra expense, you can always just lounge at one of the beaches, and eat lunch. The water is super warm and clear. Many fish will come up to you and nibble at your legs and feet.
The different beaches provide different experiences from rough waves, loud music, a swim up bar. to a relaxing gentle lapping palm filled beach.
This trip we went to Discovery Cove. This beach is the farthest from the ship and and has the calmest water. We got off the ship early and walked to the beach. When you get off the ship, be sure and can get as many beach towels as you want for the day. Just remember to return them when you return to the ship. There is a tram that will take you around to the different beaches. I am not sure how far of a walk it is. Maybe a 20 minute walk to discovery Cove. It can be very hot, and walking through the Haitian Market can be very intimidating. This the only beach where you walk through the locals who are selling their wares. Unless you want to buy something it is wise to stick to the road. If you go up on the boardwalks, it is a constant look at my stuff. There is lots of wood stuff if you like, but it is hard to just look. They don’t leave you alone.
At this beach there are 2 beach monitor stands, some cabanas, a water slide, water play area with beach monitors on paddle boards, restrooms, bar, and lunch dining facility. The ship photographers walk around so grab them and they will take professional pictures of you.
The view of the ship, water, and hills in the distance is fantastic. This picture is around noon time. We got to the beach around 9:30am and there were only a few other couples there until about 11 to 11:30am. So nice and quiet.
This beach is very quiet, calm, and water is warm. There are plenty of lounge chairs with lovely palm trees to sit under if you like.
Lunch is brought from the ship and barbecued on the island. It is basic barbecue food. Edible, but nothing special. Hamburgers, Hot dogs, barbecued chicken, barbecued ribs, corn on the cob, coleslaw, salad, fruit, cookies, brownies, etc.
So sad to go back to the ship. Until the next time. Bye Labadee!!