US issues serious warning about popular Bahamas cruise activity
If you're thinking about enjoying water activities during a cruise visit to The Bahamas, a new warning from the U.S. government may make you reconsider your plans.
With crystal-clear turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, and extensive water activities, The Bahamas is a destination that keeps cruisers coming back year after year. And while it's an ever-popular place that welcomed 10.6 million cruise passengers in 2025, The Bahamas doesn't always provide ideal conditions for beach and water excursions - even when the weather is perfect.
Before you make plans for a port day in Nassau or Freeport, you should know that there's an urgent warning from the U.S. Embassy in Nassau about a popular water sports activity. And it's a warning that every Bahamas cruiser heading to the beach should keep in mind.
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US Embassy in Nassau warns visitors against renting jet skis in The Bahamas
On June 15, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau issued a new Bahamas security alert and public service announcement warning Americans about risks of injury, death, and sexual assault associated with renting jet skis in The Bahamas.
"The beautiful waters here are one of the reasons people love to visit these islands. But, I need to warn you about some serious dangers associated with renting jet skis and small watercrafts and swimming at beaches where jet skis and small watercrafts are being operated in shallow waters, particularly around Nassau and Paradise Island," U.S. Ambassador Herschel Walker said in the Bahamas jet ski rentals public service announcement video.
Related: MSC Cruises to build new Bahamas beach club amid major growth
Lack of enforcement of jet ski safety regulations in The Bahamas has led to several serious tragedies over the last two years. Six U.S. citizens have been hospitalized with injuries from jet ski accidents since August 2024. Additionally, in 2025, a U.S. citizen riding a jet ski was struck and killed by an unlicensed operator driving an unregistered boat off Paradise Island.
The U.S. Embassy in Nassau has also received several reports of U.S. citizen women being sexually assaulted by jet ski operators who take victims to isolated islands, including two reports in 2026.
"We're working with the government of The Bahamas to address these issues. But, for now, consider all the risks before you get on a jet ski in The Bahamas. Your safety matters," Walker added.
Is it safe to visit Nassau on a cruise?
Nassau is generally considered safe for cruise passengers, but risks related to crime and swimming hazards do exist, in addition to the safety concerns around jet skis.
Cruise passengers visiting any destination in The Bahamas should make sure to follow the U.S. State Department's guidance on Bahamas beach safety, which includes:
- Never swim alone and stay alert for jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms, especially on or near downtown Nassau beaches - sexual assaults have occurred in this area.
- Know your own fitness and swimming capabilities.
- Understand the risks of snorkeling. Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health.
- Stay alert for sharks. Shark attacks have happened in The Bahamas, leading to serious injuries and deaths.
- Pay attention to weather and water conditions and follow local warnings.
Related: Booking excursions outside of your cruise line
For additional safety guidance for cruise stops in The Bahamas, review any port-specific safety information provided by your cruise line and listen for any announcements from the captain. You can also boost safety on a Bahamas cruise by booking Bahamas shore excursions directly through your cruise line, since cruise lines thoroughly vet their local tour operator partners, or through a reputable third-party excursions company.
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Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
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This story was originally published June 16, 2026 at 1:08 PM.