Crime Warning Nassau & Freeport

[Cruise life]

We were in Nassau a few months ago and we absolutely loved it! We're going to be there next weekend and our ship will be in port overnight. Any suggestions for nightime activities that won't be too risky? The only negative to our first trip was the rude staff at Senor Frogs, so we likely won't be going there. If you have recommendations for any other places, I would greatly appreciate it.

 

When we were there late in the evening in 2007, we left our older son with his grandfather and took a cab with our 25 month old twins to Atlantis. We had planned on getting dinner there, but the restaurant we had planned on visiting was getting ready to close. We ended up strolling the kids thru the aquarium, the casino and to get ice cream out past the marina (the gift shops were all closed by then, surprisingly). We saw some beautiful yachts in the marina, although it was dark outside and I'm sure we missed a lot visiting at night. We don't gamble, but seeing the inside of the massive casino and the corridors to get there is a show in itself and maybe we will go back one day to try our luck in such an amazing place... it's definitely worth a visit. I stayed in Nassau for a week many many years ago pre- Atlantis and we did not ever venture out at night, even then. Some people get day passes to couples inclusives like Sandals- maybe you could ask about visiting their property in the evening. We stayed at a few of these in other locales and they offer evening programs and entertainment. This is an area where local hotels could step up and provide evening passes, esp. as Carnival starts staying longer hours in certain ports for the live concert program. Some of the resorts have gorgeous pools with waterfalls on their grounds for evening use (the Sheraton on Nassau is one). It won't hurt to ask them about an evening pass...set it up for the rest of us!

[RWA Cruisers]

Thanks for the suggestions. Sounds like you had a good time. We don't have a set agenda, so we'll probably just see where the day leads us. We might just end up going to one of the resorts to hang out for awhile and check things out.

[stephanievrubio]

I never Bring much cash with me when I goto ports. Usually just going to the beach when I'm on an island so I don't need much just enough to rent a chair and umbrella and maybe a drink or two. If someone wants to rob me for 30 dollars than they must really need the money. Be cautious any where you go that is foreign to you. Hell now a days you have to be careful just going to a mall in America!

 

I couldn't agree more with your last statement.

[Loves Snorkeling]

I brought this up last year and there were several posters that said the buses were safe, especially over on the Nassau board. We opted not to take the bus, were in Nassau twice last year, and felt safe walking in the area within a few blocks of the ship. One can always debark and walk around Festivalplace. We walked to the Hilton the first time and our group split up doing the day pass and snorkeling with Blue Hole Watersports. The second time we walked to the Pirate Museum. There were so many people in this area. I didn't read the latest warning, but I would follow the recommendations there, stay in groups in well-traveled areas in daylight hours only.

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums mobile app

 

 

How was the snorkelling with blue hole water sports? I have a reservation with them. Did you feel safe walking to and from the Hilton?

Thanks

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums mobile app

[Cruise life]

I'm sorry I just saw this. We had a group of 8 ranging from 7 to 80 and we walked slowly checking out a few shops on the way. You can see the Hilton`s reddish roof as soon as you exit the Festival Place terminal building and turn right. There is a large sidewalk all the way around. Snorkeling was great at the second stop, the "sea gardens", but a little choppy. The children did fine.

 

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Forums mobile app

[Psych Cruiser]

Canada just re-issued its June travel warning to it's citizens about Nassau & Freeport for the high levels of crime to tourists

 

"The Canadian government said that "crime occurs mainly in Nassau and Freeport. There has been an increase in armed robberies targeting tourists in Nassau. Incidents take place in populated and isolated areas, and even in daylight hours. Do not carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewelry. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure Canasa Warning about Crime in the Bahamas at ail times. If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and do not resist. Home invasions are also of concern in Nassau."

 

The government also warned that "sexual assaults are on the rise in Nassau." Canada specifically warned that "there have been reports of jet-ski operators assaulting their clients in New Providence and Paradise Islands".

 

Nassau and Freeport are DANGEROUS, be very careful.

 

https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/bahamas

Edited June 7, 2016 by Psych Cruiser

[chong67]

I was in Nassau last month.

 

Somehow we end up in the middle of a parade and I saw lots of police with automatic rifles that dotted the route.

 

Yes I am mindful of my wallet and things when I am in the middle of such a thing and body bumping into each other.

 

Since I was in the tourist area, I think I am OK.

 

Me and my wife walk everywhere for about 4 miles around the city and walk to the Atlantis too.

 

I didnt feel unsafe.

[JT1962]

I have been to Nassau several times since the mid 1980s and was just there last month. I have never felt unsafe, but always follow common sense rules - don't carry a lot of cash, wear nice watches / jewelry, stay in the tourist areas, etc. Nassau seems to be no more dangerous than most Caribbean Ports.

 

I guess it is all perspective. I live in a city of 650,000 people with a Metro Area of 1.5 million. Every morning there are numerous reports on the news of robberies, assaults, rapes and even murders. If this is all I knew about my city, I would be scared to leave the house. I know that most of the crimes in my city are related to drug sales / use, etc. As long as I am not out trying to buy drugs in a back alley at 2:00 AM, I am probably safe. The same thing goes in Ports - just use common sense.

[Psych Cruiser]

As long as I am not out trying to buy drugs in a back alley at 2:00 AM, I am probably safe. The same thing goes in Ports - just use common sense.

 

Probably great advice where you live, however in Nassau the crime reported is to Cruisers during the times that the cruise ships are at the port, in the day.

 

A lot, if not the majority, of the rapes and sexual assaults are at the beaches and the water activities at Pleasure Island during the day. This is one of the reasons why, prior to getting off the ship at Nassau, we had a disclaimer warning notice from the ship about the high crime in the area.

 

Also the American and Canadian embassies have issued warnings to tourists and cruisers.

 

It's great advice not to wear expensive jewelry and items, but when your camera and/or iPhone is worth more than an annual salary there, you are a target.

 

There is a reason that, more and more, you will see heavily armed police watching over the tourist/cruiser areas.

 

The advice from the authorities is, if you are robbed, cooperate. No item or amount of money is worth your life or the life of whom you are with.

 

Be safe.

 

 

 

 

[Cruiser_Bell]

Solo female...would it be reasonably safe on the Jitney or a taxi to Melia resort? TIA.

[isabrady]

Is this still an issue? We want to go to Atlantis for the day. I'm debating as to whether to book thru the ship or buy tickets on our own & grab a taxi?

[Psych Cruiser]

Here's the latest from the US Embassy.

 

Why are cruise ships still going there?

 

 

"U.S. EMBASSY, NASSAU, BAHAMAS

Security Message: Personal Security Awareness

July 12, 2016

 

This message is to remind U.S. Citizens resident and visiting New Providence Island (Nassau) and Paradise Island to be mindful of their surroundings at all times and employ practical personal security awareness when in public and at home to avoid being a victim of crime.

 

Over the course of the past six months, the U.S. Embassy has received reports of a significant increase in armed robberies throughout New Providence, specifically targeting patrons of ATM machines, parking venues at various retail locations, and armed car-jackings.

 

For your safety, you should:

• Avoid using ATM machines located in isolated areas and consider using ATM machines located in shopping centers that have security coverage. Use the buddy system when using ATM machines.

• Keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up as you drive. Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicles when parked (cell phones, laptops, cash, GPS or other valuables).

 

Armed robberies and violent crimes continue to be the primary criminal threat in The Bahamas – which in many instances have occurred in areas frequented by tourists.

 

If you encounter a violent or threatening situation, try to remain calm and immediately get yourself out of harm’s way. Do not get directly involved in the situation. Once you have removed yourself from a threatening situation and your safety has been ensured, call the Royal Bahamas Police Force at 911 or 919 and inform them of the matter.

 

If you are being followed, DO NOT GO HOME. Call the police at 911 or 919. You should stay on the phone with the police and give them your location so they can provide assistance and drive to the nearest police station. If an attacker tries to box your vehicle in from the front and rear and you determine that you are under attack, you should take immediate evasive action to get out of . Please take a moment to consider the following security tips:

 We strongly encourage you to use home security systems and door locks at all times. Doors should not be opened for unknown or unidentified callers. If you sense someone is trying to gain access into your residence or hotel room, contact the police at 911 or 919 and hotel security. Perpetrators of these types of crimes typically conduct prior surveillance by watching the intended target property and the movement of the intended victims. This underscores the need for an increased awareness of common activities which can directly impact personal security.

 

 If confronted by armed criminals, remember your vehicle or valuables are not worth your life or anyone else’s life. If confronted, try to remain calm, clearly display your hands and do not make any sudden moves that could be interpreted as resistance.

 

 Always be vigilant – look for possible threats or what looks out of the norm in your surroundings - and vary your routes and times.

 

 Pay close attention to any unusual activity that may have occurred since leaving home and getting in and out of vehicles. Things like an open gate, unfamiliar vehicles parked nearby, house doors forced open, or shattered windows can be a sign of criminal interest or activity.

 

 Do not leave belongings unsecured outside your residence. Vehicles, bicycles, generators, and other property will attract criminals. If the items cannot be placed inside, then visibly secure them with a chain and lock as a deterrent.

 

 At night, park in lighted areas observable by shops, passersby, or attendants when possible. Avoid unlit areas where persons could hide and ambush. Use the buddy system and walk in groups.

 

 Avoid walking alone in dark, isolated areas such as parking lots.

 Keep your wallet or purse close to your body; never leave your purse or wallet unattended in a shopping cart or restaurant.

 

 Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – use an ATM/Credit Card when possible and check your credit card statements regularly for potential fraud or unauthorized charges.

 

 Avoid using ATM machines located in isolated areas and consider using ATM machines located in shopping centers that have security coverage. Use the buddy system when using ATM machines.

 

 Secure your home. Use your alarm system when at home and away and be familiar with the emergency panic alarm codes. Close and lock all windows and doors. Don’t forget to lock garage or gate doors. Have an escape plan for you and your family.

 

 Secure valuables at home in a locked safe that is not easily removed.

 

 Consider purchasing timers to turn on outside and inside lights automatically at various times throughout the night, especially if you are off island. Check outside lighting, replace light bulbs if necessary, and use exterior lighting at night.

 

 Unplug appliances such as televisions, stereos and personal computers.

 

 Arrange to have your lawn mowed periodically if you will be gone for an extended period of time.

 

 Arrange to have a friend or colleague check your home and pick up newspapers or other deliveries daily.

 

 Most crimes occur at night, so think prudently about night-time travel. Inform someone of your travel plans and when to expect you. Keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up as you drive. Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicles when parked. (cell phones, laptops, cash, GPS or other valuables). Utilize a car alarm or steering wheel locking device.

 Do not display or wear expensive jewelry that may make you a target for criminals. Avoid wearing gold necklaces, bracelets, expensive watches, or other flashy jewelry.

 

 In traffic or in a stopped line of cars, leave at least a half a car length between your vehicle and the car in front of you to provide an escape path. This also prevents a chain reaction accident in the event that you get hit from behind and pushed into the car in front of you.

 

 If you believe you are being followed, drive immediately to a safe location such as a police station, a gas station, or a hotel and call the Police.

 Keep your cell phone charged and with you at all times and use a GPS system if you are traveling in unfamiliar areas.

 Notify the police (call 911 or 919) if you are in a vehicle accident or need assistance.

 

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in The Bahamas enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

 

Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for The Bahamas. For additional information, refer to the Department’s “Traveler’s Checklist”.

 

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.

 

 

 

These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

 

 

 

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. In The Bahamas, the Embassy is located at 42 Queen Street in downtown Nassau, and can be reached at 242-322-1181."

[JT1962]

"Here's the latest from the US Embassy. Why are cruise ships still going there?"

 

I am guessing because it is still popular and convenient to the Florida Ports. Most of the ports in the Caribbean have security warnings, as do many U S Cities. No place is safe anymore. Most of the Caribbean countries are low income, which leads to crime. The Bahamas put out a travel warning for their citizens traveling to the US. I am not naive enough to think things don't happen, but I am also not going to let a few bad incidents stop me from traveling or enjoying myself.

 

Here are some links to U S State Dept information on other popular cruise destinations with crime issues. Click on the Safety and Security tabs and read the Crime section:

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/antigua-barbuda.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/aruba.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/barbados.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/belize.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/british-virgin-islands.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/costa-rica.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/dominica.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/dominican-republic.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/honduras.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/jamaica.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/mexico.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/st-kitts-nevis.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/st-lucia.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/sint-maarten.html

 

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/trinidad-tobago.html

Edited July 13, 2016 by JT1962

[Psych Cruiser]

"Here's the latest from the US Embassy. Why are cruise ships still going there?"

"but I am also not going to let a few bad incidents stop me from traveling or enjoying myself."

 

 

Sorry, but US Embassy notices are not just "a few bad incidents" they are very serious. These are targeted attacks and should not be taken lightly. These cautions and precautions are real and significant. They should not be ignored, down-played, or made insignificant.

 

If you are traveling to any of these ports, be acutely aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to avoid being the next American Cruising victim (s).

 

The last cruise we were on, June 2016, a crew member was robbed in Nassau just before he boarded the ship. He was getting money at an ATM machine and he was targeted. They took all his money and gifts he had bought to give to other crew members.

 

 

 

[JT1962]

"Here's the latest from the US Embassy. Why are cruise ships still going there?"

"but I am also not going to let a few bad incidents stop me from traveling or enjoying myself."

 

 

Sorry, but US Embassy notices are not just "a few bad incidents" they are very serious. These are targeted attacks and should not be taken lightly. These cautions and precautions are real and significant. They should not be ignored, down-played, or made insignificant.

 

If you are traveling to any of these ports, be acutely aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to avoid being the next American Cruising victim (s).

 

The last cruise we were on, June 2016, a crew member was robbed in Nassau just before he boarded the ship. He was getting money at an ATM machine and he was targeted. They took all his money and gifts he had bought to give to other crew members.

 

 

 

 

 

Not downplaying it at all. They robbed and shot a person getting money from an ATM 1/2 mile from my house last week. That doesn't mean I am going to move or never go by there. It appears that either something bad happened to you or someone close to you in the Bahamas, as you seem obsessed with this topic. Obviously if you are that concerned, don't go there or at least stay on the ship and we will have to agree to disagree on the subject.

[MaineBirdBrain]

I find this thread very troubling. I had read that Nassau was not safe and started searching to verify that statement. That search lead to this thread. I ride the subways at night in Boston, New York City, and DC. Is Nassau worse than those locations? A better question might be is it inadvisable to walk to the fort / water tower area and back in broad daylight? Is it really that bad? Aren't there about 2000 other people doing the same? Prior research seemed to indicate that the danger was in the over-the-hill area. If we cannot safely walk to the castle, I guess we will stay on the ship.

[oilsand]

I have been to nassau many times in the last few years. I do not find it a unsafe place. With many ships each day I think the numbers of folks in the downtown and the police evidence make it good, I might be concerned in walking around outside areas at night , but not in the day time.

i think the walk to the fort and anywhere else downtown is safe. IMO do not let the reports deter you from exploring the downtown area.

[Psych Cruiser]

I have been to nassau many times in the last few years. I do not find it a unsafe place. With many ships each day I think the numbers of folks in the downtown and the police evidence make it good, I might be concerned in walking around outside areas at night , but not in the day time.

i think the walk to the fort and anywhere else downtown is safe. IMO do not let the reports deter you from exploring the downtown area.

 

Glad that you have not experienced crime in Nassau on a first hand basis.

 

The majority of the crime that is being reported is opportunistic on cruising tourists and are happening in the daytime and concentrated in, and around, the port and major tourist areas.

 

Read the current United States and Canadian Embassy releases for it's citizens. There is a reason that you now see heavily armed police in the tourist areas.

 

The last time we were at port in Nassau (last month), the cruise line warned us, prior to getting off the ship, that we were entering a high crime area.

 

Here is a UTube video on what to do if you are being robbed:

 

 

In Nassau and Freeport, be safe, be aware of your surroundings, don't be flashy, and if robbed, cooperate.

Edited July 26, 2016 by Psych Cruiser

[tjmaher]

My husband and I were in Nassau in May and we took the number ten to Breeze Resort with no problem at all. I am traveling there again with my girlfriend and family in October. We are planning on the Melia resort for the day and again we were going to take the number 10. Do you think doing this in the daylight would be ok? NERVOUS NOW!:mad:

[JT1962]

Just use common sense and you should be fine. While there is some crime that occurs everywhere, I have never felt unsafe in the tourist areas in Nassau or any other port I have been to. Some people seem to like to cause panic on these boards.

[elainmir]

We always take the number 10 bus while there but we do pay attention to surroundings. I don't carry much cash while in port. We usually do Pirates Brewery there but this time may do Melia or another resort!

[MaineBirdBrain]

Just off the Conquest. We visited Nassau. We walked to Fort Fincastle and Queen Anne Stairs. Then walked to the Fish Fry. Then took a water taxi to Paradise Island and walked to Versailles Gardens. Never felt unsafe. Don't be stupid. Don't insult the locals, stay sober, don't be out at night, stay off side streets, and all will be well. Just my opinion. Nassau was beautiful. Glad I did not let reports ruin our day. Glad we explored instead of staying on the ship.

Edited August 10, 2016 by MaineBirdBrain

[mattg43]

We were there in Feb and walked around for several hours. Took the ferry to Paradise island and walked across it to the public beach. Never felt unsafe, but I also used some common sense. We turned around when the road went from shops and hotels to residential/construction areas.

 

Criminals are looking for the easy targets. They are looking for the people with their heads buried in expensive phones or eyes constantly in the viewport of $2,000 cameras, etc. Grabbing a stack of cash from an ATM is not smart - use the one on the ship. Remain alert to your surroundings, walk in packs of other cruise guests and tourists, etc. If you find yourself alone, turnaround.

 

All common sense things when in a new unknown area.

Edited August 15, 2016 by mattg43

[Kaseyjoness]

I just found this on the State Dept.'s web site: "Over the course of the past six months, the U.S. Embassy has received reports of a

significant increase in armed robberies throughout New Providence, specifically

targeting patrons of ATM machines, parking venues at various retail locations, and armed car-jackings."

 

While it's no doubt wise to be cautious and aware, this doesn't seem like cruise ship tourists are their focus. I will not be letting this change my plans.:)