Do not travel to Bahamas, there are sharks: Trump admin advises Americans

The advisory says most crimes happen in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama, urging travellers to avoid Nassau’s “Over the Hill” area.

Updated on: Apr 6, 2025, 20:25:26 IST

By HT News Desk

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The US State Department released a travel advisory for the Bahamas on March 31, 2025, citing crime and swimming-related risks. The advisory has urged travellers to exercise caution about travelling with firearms and ammunition. It states that the Bahamas is vulnerable to violent crimes like armed robberies, burglaries and sexual assaults.

The US State Department advisory states that the Bahamas is vulnerable to violent crimes such as armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults. (Getty Images via AFP)

The advisory states that most crimes occur in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, requesting travellers to remain alert of the "Over the Hill” area in Nassau.

Beyond the popular areas, even rental properties are stated to be unsafe, especially where private security is not present. Further, the advisory also highlighted specific instructions related to boating and beach safety.

Jet ski and boating safety

Boating is not well regulated, due to which injuries and deaths have occurred in the past. Also, there have been reports of sexual assaults by ski operators, and government employees are prohibited from using jet skis and watercraft rented from independent operators in Paradise Island.

Additionally, Watercraft are being operated by unlicensed operators, which is not safe.

Beach safety advice

The advisory warns travelers to remain cautious of the jet ski or watercraft operating close to the shore. Around the Nassau beaches, it cautions travellers to become aware of their swimming capabilities. “ Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health,” the advisory says. It also mentions sharks and the increased cases of shark attacks.

Weapons and ammunition

Firearms and ammunition have been declared illegal, and even small firearms brought by mistake will not be tolerated. “Police strictly enforce these laws—even at the airport when travelers are leaving”, it says. Individuals found carrying firearms or ammunition can be subject to arrest, imprisonment, and financial penalties.

Guidelines for those visiting Bahamas

Lastly, it provides guidelines for those visiting the Bahamas. These guidelines include key safety tips like locking doors, windows and avoiding resisting robbery attempts. Also, it asks travellers to check their luggage for bullets or firearms before departure, as carrying them can lead to serious penalties. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), review the Traveler’s Checklist and check the CDC website for health updates. For any further information, it encourages travellers to read the country information page.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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