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Excursions on cruises almost always have a zippy and electrifying element to them. From guided walking tours led by local experts to horseback riding amongst breathtaking sights and devouring aromatic foods — excursions are where it’s at. In particular, Royal Caribbean excursions never lack this exhilarating component.
Ladabee, Haiti is a alluring port-city owned by Royal Caribbean. It’s a popular stop in the Eastern Caribbean by this cruise line. My mom and I docked here on day 3 while aboard the Wonder of the Seas cruise — the largest cruise ship in the world.
In this guide, you’ll find the must-do shore excursion, a quick peep at the weather in Labadee, Haiti to help you prep for your trip and other things to do besides excursions.
But before you head-out to the island, make sure to grab a big breakfast to fuel up for the day! If you’re a cruiser with have food allergies, here’s a some practical tips for a more allergy-friendly cruise.
Feel free to jump ahead!
- Weather for Labadee, Haiti
- Map of Labadee, Haiti and list of Royal Caribbean excursions
- The best paid Royal Caribbean excursions
- Other things to do besides Royal Caribbean excursions
- Rent a cabana
- Lounge at the beach
- Ride the trolley train for fun or to your Royal Caribbean excursions
- Sip on a Labadoozie (in-between Royal Caribbean excursions)
- Dine at the all you can eat buffet
- Buy a souvenir or explore the shops
- Snap photos on the beach swings
- Take a dip in the refreshing ocean
- Play an outdoor sport or sign up for sporty Royal Caribbean excursions
- More wellness travel resources
Weather for Labadee, Haiti
Labadee, Haiti weather is overall really great! Since the island of Haiti is located in the Caribbean, the climate ranges from hot to extremely hot, with high levels of humidity. The hottest months according to Accuweather, are April to October with average temperatures between 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. While the cooler months range from November to March and are around 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Besides, don’t expect the temperature to drop too much during any month around nightfall. Typical night temperature range from 60 -70 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus you’ll probably be were on the boat before nightfall, so shorts, dresses, and short sleeves shirts are all recommended.
All around, it’s safe to expect the weather in Ladabee, Haiti to be decent. However, pack a light raincoat just in case it rains! That lush island didn’t become verdant green from only sunlight.
Map of Labadee, Haiti and list of Royal Caribbean excursions
Here’s a map of the island to help you get your bearings. You can easily find this map on the once you arrive.
The best paid Royal Caribbean excursions
Below you’ll find a list of the best shore excursions on Royal Caribbean. Keep in mind the prices vary depending on the Royal Caribbean excursion. Additionally, some excursions will have longer wait lines depending on the time of day. My advice — get to Labadee early on to make the most of your day.
Dragon’s Breath Zip Line
Dragon’s Breath Zip Line wins the title of being the worlds longest zip line over the ocean. Rated by Trip Advisor as the number one thing to do in Labadee, Haiti — this Royal Caribbean excursion is hands down my favorite. It’s exhilarating, thrilling and offers a panoramic view of the port and lush green mountains. From here the cruise ship looks tiny!
In order to ride Dragon’s Breath, you’ll have to first pass the smaller zip line. Here the staff with go over safety positions and teach you how to brace at the end of the zip line. This zip line is quite smaller compared to the actual Dragon’s Breath Zip Line.
After, you’ll hop on a bus and journey up the mountainside to the zip lining take off area. Five people are allowed to ride together at one time. If you’re planning to take a GoPro, iPhone, or camera, make sure you have a strap. The staff may not let you use it if you don’t, or you run the chances of it falling in the ocean.
Keep in mind this is one of the most popular Royal Caribbean excursions, so if you’re an adventurous spirit, book this asap. If you wait until you dock at the port, you’ll run the chance of not being able to book this experience.
While it’s on the pricier side of excursions on cruises, I highly recommend it! It’s extremely fun with insane views and it goes at a slow to moderate speed.
Dragon’s Tail Coaster
Rated 4.5 on Trip Advisor, this alpine roller-coaster glides down the verdant mountainside showcasing spectacular views of the port-city. It’s another one of my favorite Royal Caribbean shore excursions, along with the zip line.
What’s unique about this tail coaster is it’s semi self-operated. Meaning the crew managing the controls get you to the top, but ultimately you operate the coaster going downhill. You’ll have two brake-handles, one on the left and one on right side. With the handles you’ll be able to control the speed going down.
For the thrillist, push the handles all the way down for a fast cascade down the mountainside. Don’t be alarmed if you giggle and scream as you make your way down the lush forest. The ride is invigorating and amusing with several twists and turns! Also, expect to see gorgeous views.
If you’re planning on riding the coaster get there early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the long lines. I went later in the afternoon and there was absolutely no line! Also if you’re trying to go pedal to the metal, try to not ride behind someone wanting a slower coaster ride. This will cause your coaster to go slower as well to avoid a collision.
Lastly, have fun and bring a wrist strap if you’re planning on taking a video.
Labadee Historic Walking Tour
Another one of the Royal Caribbean excursions is the Labadee Historic Walking Tour. Since I participated in the other Royal Caribbean shore excursions, I wasn’t able to attend the walking tour. However, I’ve heard great things about this tour as you’ll get to learn in-depth facts, the history of this beautiful port-city and the Labadee Village from a local expert.
Additionally, the tour lasts about one hour. If you’re planning on attending the tour, book this ahead of time to secure a spot.
However, if you’re short on time and are an adventure junkie — just stick with the roller coaster and zip line.
Other things to do besides Royal Caribbean excursions
If shore excursions aren’t your speed, don’t worry. There’s plenty to do on the island besides experiencing the thrilling excursions. Below you’ll find a handful of activities to do in Haiti Ladabee.
Rent a cabana
Craving a more private experience after the cruise to Haiti? Then renting a cabana is probably your pace. The cabanas are extremely relaxing and right near the water. Lounge on the couches or beach chairs while sipping a Labadoozie (a classic island drink created by Royal Caribbean). Take a nap or hop into the ocean to cool down from the Haitian heat.
Lounge at the beach
Relaxing beach-side is one of the best free things to do in Labadee, Haiti. I highly recommend bringing towels from your stateroom, so you don’t have to hunt around for towels while you’re on the island. You’ll save time and will have more time to chill, swim, eat and repeat.
Ride the trolley train for fun or to your Royal Caribbean excursions
Located at the front of the port of Labadee, Haiti, hop on the trolley train to reach various spots at the port faster. It’s a completely free and a fun way to explore the island by car.
Sip on a Labadoozie (in-between Royal Caribbean excursions)
Labadoozie — the famed and official drink of Labadee Royal Caribbean’s private island. This drink is truly refreshing after spending the day playing in the sun. It’s a sweet frozen drink consisting of three main ingredients — citrus fruits, rum and a bunch of ice.
Specifically the citrus fruit mix is a combination of oranges, papaya and pineapple, while the rum is mixture of dark rum and coconut rum. Add a splash of grenadine, a handful of ice and you’re set with a revitalizing drink for bumming it on the beach.
You can find the official recipe here.
Dine at the all you can eat buffet
Here you’ll find a variety of options to choose from. There’s fresh fruit — pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe — cookies, rice, salad, ribs, chicken, burgers and more. For vegan and gluten-free folks, keep in mind I did have to ask for food. Just walk up to the head chef, tell them about your food preferences and they’ll let you know the options they have.
If you’re super concerned about food options, I’d eat a hearty breakfast at the Windjammer aboard Wonder of the Seas (or whatever ship you’re on). Also, I’d throw some travel snacks into your day pack to hold you over till dinnertime. Here’s a go-to list of easy snacks to bring aboard.
Lastly, the lunch lines get long here so avoid the lunch crowd by enjoying an early or late lunch.
Buy a souvenir or explore the shops
For those wanting some retail therapy at the beach, Labadee has a quaint shopping area filled with shirts, souvenirs and more. There are two shopping areas. One is right by the port, while the other is located more towards the beach area. Take the trolley train there or feel free to walk from the dock.
Snap photos on the beach swings
You’ll find three sets of beach swings to leisurely enjoy around this port-city. If you’re planning on participating in cruise excursions, I’d save a stop by this instagram-worthy location in Columbus Cove later on during the day.
Also going later in the day makes it more ‘gram-worthy’ since it’s a popular photo-op spot and they’ll be less people likely to photo bomb. Or head to Adrenaline Beach, because this swing tends to be less crowded.
Take a dip in the refreshing ocean
Hop in the Caribbean sea to enjoy the warm waters under the tropical ambiance. Surrounding the turquoise water beach you’ll find gorgeous green painted mountains. Swim a couple laps to maintain your wellness at sea or save your workout time for the well-equipped fitness center.
Also, swimming is an excellent year-round activity as the weather in Labadee, Haiti is overall warm.
Either way, I highly recommend getting at least your toes in the water. Also, for kids there is a floating water jungle gym. I was definitely thinking about giving it a go, as it looked quite entertaining with bouncing areas, mini climbing blow up walls, and more.
For the big kids at heart, give it a whirl and feel free to report back!
Play an outdoor sport or sign up for sporty Royal Caribbean excursions
There’s an abundance of sports activities to try at Labadee! You’ll find kayaking (a paid excursion), volleyball courts, basketball courts, a soccer field and much more.
Overall I loved my experience in Labadee, Haiti and setting sail aboard the worlds largest ship, Wonder of the Seas. However, it’s important to note this area is owned by Royal Caribbean. If you’re expecting to experience “true Haiti”, you will have to save that for another trip and slow travel through Haiti.
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