As the tragedy in Haiti has unfolded over the past two weeks, Royal Caribbean has stirred controversy by returning to its regularly scheduled cruises to Labadee, the cruise line’s privately owned “island” just 100 miles from Port-au-Prince. Just days after a major earthquake struck the nation, the Independence of the Seas docked offshore bringing both passengers and supplies. While some are applauding Royal Caribbean’s relief efforts (as well as a boost in tourism), others are disgusted that tourists are lounging with a tropical drink in hand just miles from the devastation that has claimed over 70,000 lives.
What do you think? Was Royal Caribbean right to bring tourism to Haiti, or should it be temporarily re-routing ships?