Cruises are generally safe vacations. Cruise lines carefully choose ports of call and steer clear of risky areas. After all, keeping passengers safe is their top priority, and they definitely don’t want any trouble.
However, as everyone knows, a large number of tourists always attracts a fair share of wrongdoers.
For this reason, theft, muggings, and scams are still very frequent, even in the safest ports.
So, which ports require extra caution? Here are the top 10 you should watch out for!
10. Havana, Cuba
Havana is a vibrant city, full of culture and things to see. However, petty crime is quite frequent, especially in crowded tourist areas.
My advice is to stick to well-known neighborhoods like Old Havana. From my experience, there is much less police officer presence in Central Havana when compared to Old Havana.
In addition, pay attention to the constant traffic, potholes on the streets, and stray dogs (sometimes they can become aggressive).
9. Nassau, Bahamas
As you probably know, Nassau is a major cruise port and perhaps one of the most famous in the world.
Despite the fact that many passengers consider it beautiful and like to stop there, it also has a reputation for crime, including theft and armed robbery, particularly in certain neighborhoods away from the main tourist areas.
If you want to venture into unknown areas, you should move in groups to reduce the likelihood of becoming a target for crime.
If you don’t want to risk it, stay in well-trafficked locations, such as the Atlantis Resort or downtown.
8. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is another well-known cruise destination, and it’s particularly famous for its beaches and snorkeling.
In general, it is relatively safe; you just need to use common sense. Like many tourist destinations, cruise passengers are often targets for pickpocketing or scams, particularly in busy markets.
I’ve also heard that taxi and excursion scams are quite frequent. I would recommend booking excursions through your cruise line or only with well-reviewed local operators.
You can find more details about things to see in the article on the 10 things you can’t miss in Cozumel during your cruise.
7. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is a stunning port city known for its colonial architecture.
While visiting the city, pay attention to some areas that can be particularly dangerous, especially outside the tourist zones.
Focus on popular sites like the Old City, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true.
6. Manzanillo, Mexico
Manzanillo is a beautiful coastal town in Mexico. While the city is generally safe, and people love the stunning beaches, some areas require extra caution.
If you’re venturing out, it’s safer to explore in groups rather than alone. If you prefer to be safer, enjoy the popular beaches and waterfront areas where there is a stronger police presence.
This list includes only ports where cruises typically dock. There are other ports around the world that are more dangerous but are not used by cruise lines for safety reasons.
5. Izmir, Turkey
I don’t know why, according to several guides, Izmir is listed among the least safe ports.
I’ve been there twice, and I have never felt threatened or unsafe. Of course, you should always keep your eyes open.
For example, pickpocketing and scams can occur. I’ve also noticed that shops often try to overcharge tourists, so remember to negotiate prices.
In addition, don’t bring too much cash. Check the article where I’ve explained what is the right amount of cash to bring on a cruise.
4. Durban, South Africa
If you’re not familiar with South Africa, you should know that in big towns, you have to stay vigilant, as violent crimes are usually more common than in Europe or Southeast Asia.
I would be especially careful as the evening approaches. It would be better to return to the ship as early as 6 p.m.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Everyone knows Rio de Janeiro and its beauty. However, it also has high crime rates, including robbery and violence, especially in certain neighborhoods.
While most crimes usually happen in little-visited areas, tourists can be targets, particularly in crowded areas or during major events.
Try to stay in well-known neighborhoods like Copacabana and Ipanema and steer clear of favelas.
2. Kingston, Jamaica
Kingston in Jamaica could be quite a dangerous city, especially in some areas due to gang activity.
The US State Department issued a level 3 out of 4 advisory saying that armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.
In addition, U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory responses to serious criminal incidents. So be especially careful. Choose an organized excursion or stay on the ship.
You can see the full list of ports where it is recommended to stay on the ship by clicking here.
1. Acapulco, Mexico
Acapulco was a dream destination in the 1980s and 1990s, but now the level of criminality is really too high.
The US government recommends no travel there, and the Guerrero state is classified in the highest level of risk.
The rise in crime is mainly related to drug trafficking and gang violence. I would stay on the ship unless there is an excursion with the cruise line that is considered to be safe.
To avoid mistakes, make sure you read the 10 travel hacks only cruise pros know.
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