10/08/2026
CAUTION CRUISERS...
ALWAYS USE A TRUSTED TOUR OPERATOR.....
Reach out to your travel agent
The U.S. Embassy in Nassau has issued a strict security alert strongly advising American citizens to avoid renting jet skis and personal watercraft in The Bahamas due to severe safety risks, including sexual assaults and violent accidents. Driven by ongoing concerns over a lack of regulatory enforcement, the advisory prohibits all U.S. government employees from renting or using jet skis on New Providence and Paradise islands. [1, 2, 3, 4]
# # Core Safety Threats Detailed in the Alert
The [Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Nassau](https://bs.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-nassau-the-bahamas-june-15-2026/) outlines specific criminal patterns and safety failures driving the emergency warning: [2, 3]
* Sexual Assaults: The embassy has documented a clear pattern of sexual misconduct, including multiple reported rapes of American women by jet ski operators. Rogue operators frequently solicit tourists on popular city beaches, pick them up, and transport them to isolated nearby islands where the assaults occur. [1, 5]
* Severe Maritime Accidents: Since August 2024, six U.S. citizens have been hospitalized due to serious watercraft collisions, with half requiring emergency medical evacuation back to the United States. This includes a fatal incident where an American was struck and killed by an unlicensed operator driving an unregistered boat. [5, 6]
* Unregulated Operations: Many beachside vendors operate entirely unlicensed and uninsured, frequently utilizing poorly maintained watercraft and actively disregarding local marine weather warnings. [4, 7]
# # High-Risk Zones to Avoid
Travelers are urged to be highly vigilant and decline any watercraft solicitations near these specific hot spots: [2, 3, 4, 5]
* Nassau Cruise Ship Port
* Junkanoo Beach
* Saunders Beach
* Cabbage Beach
* Arawak Cay
* Small cays and islands located just east of Paradise Island [1, 3, 4]
# # Required Safety Actions for Travelers [4]
If you are currently traveling or planning a trip to the region, follow the official safety directives provided by the [U.S. Embassy in The Bahamas](https://bs.usembassy.gov/news/): [4]
1. Refuse Jet Ski Rentals: Do not accept rides or rent equipment from independent beachside operators. Local laws explicitly forbid operators from riding as passengers with renters, and rentals to minors under 18 are completely prohibited. [3, 4]
2. Maintain Situational Awareness: Stay alert when visiting public beach restrooms or walking alone in high-traffic tourist areas. [1, 7]
3. Monitor Marine Conditions: Always review local weather updates and marine alerts before engaging in any ocean activities. [3]
4. Utilize Trusted Vetted Agencies: If choosing to participate in water excursions, ensure you book strictly through established, corporate cruise lines or verified, fully licensed tour operators rather than solo beach vendors. [8, 9]
The Bahamas currently remains under a Level 2 Travel Advisory ("Exercise Increased Caution") from the [U.S. Department of State](https://travel.state.gov/) due to localized crime. If you find yourself in danger or need to report an incident, contact the local authorities immediately and reach out to the U.S. Embassy Nassau for consular assistance. [6, 7, 10, 11]
The U.S. Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of Americans. The Bureau of Consular Affairs issues U.S. passports, informs and assists Americans abroad, and strengthens America's security and safety by adjudicating and rigorously screening visa applications....
