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GALVESTON, Texas — Planning on taking a cruise to the Bahamas anytime soon? The U.S. Department of State is urging Americans to exercise increased caution.
The State Department has updated its travel advisory for The Bahamas, a popular stop for several cruise lines. The Carnival Dream, Carnival Miracle, Disney Magic and Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas out of Galveston all make stops in the Bahamas, according to GalvestonCruises.com.
Both the Carnival Dream and Miracle sail to Celebration Key, an exclusive destination island in the Bahamas, which is set to welcome guests in July.
The updated travel advisory is due to rising crime and water-related risks.
The advisory, issued March 31, maintains The Bahamas at a Level 2 status but now includes additional warnings about violent crime, unsafe boating practices, swimming dangers and strict firearm laws.
According to the advisory, violent crimes such as armed robberies, burglaries and sexual assaults can occur anywhere in The Bahamas, with most incidents reported in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. The State Department specifically warns travelers to stay alert in Nassau’s “Over the Hill” area, south of Shirley Street, where gang violence has led to killings.
Visitors are also urged to be cautious when staying in vacation rentals without private security.
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The advisory warns that boating in the Bahamas is poorly regulated, with past incidents of injuries and deaths. U.S. government employees are prohibited from renting jet skis or personal watercraft from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands due to safety concerns and reports of sexual assaults by jet ski operators.
Swimmers and snorkelers are advised to avoid swimming alone and stay alert for nearby jet skis and other watercraft. The advisory also notes that shark attacks have resulted in serious injuries and deaths in Bahamian waters. Travelers are urged to assess their fitness levels before entering the water and to follow local warnings about weather and marine conditions.
Travelers are reminded that firearms and ammunition are illegal in the Bahamas. Even small amounts of ammunition mistakenly packed in luggage can result in arrest, jail time and fines. U.S. citizens have been detained for several days or longer after authorities found firearms or bullets in their bags, including at airports when departing the country.
The advisory recommends that travelers double-check their luggage for prohibited items before leaving the U.S.
According to the State Department, if you decide to travel to the Bahamas:
