The US State Department issued an updated advisory on March 31, warning travelers to be on alert against crime, swimming risks, and traveling with firearms and ammunition.
Despite adding these new hazards, the executive department has maintained its level 2 classification as it urges tourists to “exercise increased caution.”
What You Need To Know About Crime in The Bahamas
According to the US Department of State, violent crime—including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults—can take place anywhere in the Caribbean country.
However, most criminal incidents have been registered in Nassau and Freeport, two of its most visited cruise ports.
Americans were further advised to remain cautious in:
- Nassau’s “Over the Hill” area where residents have been killed
- Vacation rental properties with zero to minimal private security
The federal department also listed guidelines for jet skis and boating activities, along with beach safety recommendations.
Staying Safe on Jet Skis, Boats, and the Beach
The advisory reminds citizens that boating in The Bahamas is insufficiently regulated and may be unsafe, with a history of injuries and deaths.
Local operators have also been known to ignore weather alerts, so tourists must monitor weather reports and local conditions.
Those who prefer to stay by the shore should remain vigilant since sexual assaults have occurred on Nassau’s beaches.
The department also warns against shark attacks and being overconfident while swimming.
These reminders come on the heels of two recent jet ski accidents in The Bahamas—one that killed a female cruise passenger and another that left a Royal Caribbean guest with permanent injuries.
Beware of Bringing Weapons
Finally, cruise passengers must be careful not to bring weapons and ammunition into the island nation.
Both are illegal, so carrying them, even accidentally, can lead to jail time and hefty fines.
A Royal Caribbean passenger made this mistake while visiting Turks and Caicos.
After authorities discovered two stray bullets in his bag that he had forgotten about, he faced a potential 12-year prison sentence.
The US Department of State issued a similar warning in January 2024, naming homicides, armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults as causes for concern.
While The Bahamas poses safety risks, the number of cruise passengers visiting its islands continues to grow.
The Nassau Cruise Port welcomed 5.6 million cruise guests last year, with more expected in 2025.
A newly completed port redevelopment project is helping fuel the growth by allowing the port to host seven cruise vessels simultaneously.
