While the Caribbean Cruise remains a top cruise destination in 2025, safety levels vary across the region. Calling a port “dangerous” doesn’t mean every visitor will face problems; there can be a higher risk of crime, unrest, or scams according to government advisories and travel alerts. Out of the 10 most dangerous Caribbean cruise ports, places like parts of Jamaica, Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas, and St. Kitts and Nevis have reported issues such as robberies and violent crime, making it important for travellers to stay cautious when visiting.

10 Most Dangerous Caribbean Cruise Ports

Here are 10 Caribbean cruise ports that are commonly regarded as particularly dangerous for cruise passengers, due to crime, political instability, or safety concerns:

Roatan, Honduras

This island is known for beautiful beaches and diving spots, but the mainland of Honduras has a high kidnapping rate. While Roatán has lower crime rates, theft, assaults, and robberies do occur, particularly in areas like Coxen Hole, where cruise ships dock.

Tips: Stick to ship or top-rated tours, use licensed taxis, and avoid isolated beaches after dark.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a top cruise destination, but with an increase in violent crime, including armed robberies and sexual assaults, particularly on the islands of New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport), it is considered one of the dangerous cruise ports. The U.S. State Department has issued a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory.

Tips: Stay in well-patrolled areas, avoid lone beach walks, and be aware of unsolicited vendors.

Belize City, Belize

Despite being a popular port, violent and petty crime can occur outside tourist-patrolled zones. Many cruisers choose ship-organized excursions that depart the port area promptly for reef, cave, or ruins tours.

Tips: Book vetted tours, minimize time lingering near the port, and avoid walking far beyond the tourism village.

Jamaica

The U.S. State Department has placed Jamaica under a Level 3 travel advisory, one of the most dangerous cruise ports, because of crime, including high rates of murder and sexual assault. Areas beyond the main port zones in Montego Bay, Falmouth, and Ocho Rios have raised safety concerns. 

Tips: Book excursions through the cruise line and avoid going off alone in quiet or less crowded areas.

Cartagena, Colombia

This city is beautiful, but the wider country of Colombia has a history of drug-related crime. While the port areas are generally safer than the major cities, drug trafficking can still be a concern.

Tips: Prefer ship tours or trusted drivers, avoid wandering into residential areas and keep evenings ship-side.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Home to popular spots like Cozumel and Playa del Carmen, this region comes under the top 10 most dangerous cruise ports because of an increase in violence related to organized crime and drug cartels. The U.S. State Department currently has Quintana Roo at a Level 2 travel advisory, urging travellers to exercise increased caution due to crime.

Tips: Stick to ship-organized tours or reputable operators, stay in well-populated areas, and avoid wandering alone late at night, especially away from the port.

Haiti (Labadee)

Haiti remains under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory due to extreme gang violence, kidnappings, and civil unrest. Because of these conditions, most cruise lines have suspended stops at Labadee in 2025, and itineraries are being adjusted to safer ports. Cruisers should expect last-minute changes if Haiti is listed on their schedule.

Tips: Follow cruise line updates closely, check Caribbean cruise ports to avoid, be prepared for itinerary changes, and avoid independent travel in Haiti altogether.

St. Lucia

While the island is generally safe and welcoming, incidents of robberies, petty theft, and occasional violent crime, particularly after dark or outside main tourist zones, make it one of the dangerous Caribbean cruise ports. Cruise passengers tend to stay safe when using organized tours and sticking to busy areas.

Tips: Book excursions through the ship or trusted providers, avoid carrying valuables, and stay away from isolated areas at night.

Dominican Republic (La Romana and Samana)

The Dominican Republic is under a Level 2: Increased Caution advisory due to crime. While popular cruise areas like La Romana and Samaná are generally safer than urban centers, there have still been reports of thefts, robberies, and scams, especially in less crowded parts of town or at night. Therefore, the city is on the list of the most dangerous cruise ports in the Caribbean. Cruise terminals and organized excursions are considered secure, but risks rise if travellers venture out alone or use unlicensed services.

Tips: Stick with ship excursions or reputable operators, use licensed taxis, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or isolated areas after dark.

Colon, Panama

Colon is known for having higher crime rates than other tourist areas in Panama. Most cruise passengers travel directly from the terminal to Panama Canal tours or other supervised excursions, which are considered much safer than exploring the city on foot.

Tips: Use only ship-organized tours or trusted transport, avoid walking alone near the port, and return to the ship before evening.

What Should a Passenger Do In These Dangerous Cruise Ports?

When a cruise ship docks at a port with a reputation for being dangerous, passengers should take extra precautions to ensure their safety. Here is what passengers should do in these high-risk ports.

• Book Official Excursions: Staying with a guided group and a trusted operator significantly reduces the risk of being a target for crime or scams.
  
• Stay in Tourist Zones: These zones are typically well-patrolled by local police and have a greater presence of other tourists and security guards. Wandering into residential or less-travelled neighbourhoods is a significant risk, as these areas often have higher crime rates.
  
• Use Official Transportation: If a passenger needs to get around, they should only use official, licensed taxis or other forms of transportation recommended by the cruise line. Using an unlicensed taxi can put a passenger at risk of being overcharged or taken to an unsafe location.
  
• Minimize Valuables: Before leaving the ship, passengers should take only what they need, such as a small amount of cash, one credit card, and a photocopy of their passport.
  
• Be Careful With Surroudings: Be cautious of people who approach with offers that seem too good to be true, or who claim to know them from the ship. Passengers should be on the lookout for pickpockets in crowded areas like markets and public squares.
  
• Keep Documents Safe: Carry a photocopy of the passport, and lock the original in the cabin safe.

Wrapping Up!

For many, a Caribbean cruise is the ultimate vacation, a chance to relax on pristine beaches and explore vibrant cultures. However, not all ports are created equal when it comes to safety. While cruise lines and local authorities work to ensure a secure environment, it’s wise for travellers to be aware of potential risks and understand dangerous cruise ports. It will help the passengers to ensure their trip remains a dream vacation and doesn’t turn into a nightmare.

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