The Bahamas, a sought-after tropical paradise, attracts visitors with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, it’s crucial for travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime concerns.
Understanding Safety Risks in The Bahamas
The majority of criminal activity is concentrated on the islands of New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport). Within Nassau, the “Over the Hill” area, located south of Shirley Street, is particularly affected by gang violence, resulting in a high homicide rate that primarily impacts local residents. However, tourists are not immune to risks. Violent crimes, including burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, can occur in both tourist hotspots and less-visited areas. It’s especially important to be vigilant when staying in short-term vacation rentals, as these properties may lack the security measures found in larger hotels and resorts.
Water Safety Advisory for Bahamas Visitors
Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft in The Bahamas, such as water tours, are not consistently regulated for safety. This raises concerns about the maintenance of watercraft and the qualifications of some operators. Before participating in any water-based activities, always check local weather forecasts and marine alerts, and heed any warnings. Despite weather advisories, commercial operators may still choose to run their tours, and incidents of injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
Essential Water Safety Practices
Whether you are an experienced swimmer or not, never swim alone. Always be mindful of your swimming capabilities and fitness level when entering the water. Shark encounters, including both fatal and non-fatal incidents, have been reported recently, so it’s important to be aware of this potential hazard when swimming or engaging in water activities. Pay close attention to weather and water conditions and always follow local warnings and guidelines to ensure your safety in the water.
For more detailed information on travel to The Bahamas, please refer to the country information page.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas, remember to exercise increased caution and stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
