Royal Caribbean Continues to Face Criticism for Returning to Haiti

(January 28) Royal Caribbean’s decision to bring guests to Port au Prince, Haiti, in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, continues to spark controversy.

Images of guests enjoying the beaches on Haiti’s north coast, just 80 miles from the disaster zone, have been picked up my the media and online blogs.  While some argue that Royal Caribbean is contributing to Haiti’s economy, others are shocked by the dichotomy between a day at the beach and a day of life threatening struggle.

Royal Caribbean’s decision to return to Haiti came three days after the January 12th earthquake.  In addition to passengers, the ships are also bringing relief supplies – via Food for the Poor, Pan Americans Development Foundation and the Solano Foundation.  The cruise line has also promised $1 million in humanitarian relief for the country, as well as 100% of its net revenue from the visits.

Of the decision, Chief Executive Richard D. Fain says, “The effect of the earthquake on Haiti has been catastrophic, leaving the country in need of not only immediate support, but assistance in their long-term recovery…Royal Caribbean wants to do its part to help out not only the general response, but also our hundreds of Haitian employees and their families through this disaster.”

Special Envoy of the government of Haiti to the United Nations, Leslie Voltaire, responded, “Given the terrible economic and social challenges we now face in Haiti, we welcome the continuation of the positive economic benefits that the cruise ship calls to Labadee contribute to our country.”