The Carnival Sunshine’s top cruise destination is getting a little more dangerous, according to a recent travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State.
The ship, which is home ported at Union Pier Terminal in downtown Charleston, regularly sails to Freeport and Nassau in the Bahamas — places where the U.S. government says tourists need to exercise increased caution.
“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies and sexual assaults occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” according to the Jan. 26 advisory.
Crime is particularly prevalent in Nassau’s “Over the Hill” area south of Shirley Street, which is just a few blocks from the cruise terminal and the tourist-centric straw market. The advisory states “gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population,” but visitors shouldn’t wander into the area.
A report by the U.S. Embassy in Nassau states that 18 murders have taken place in Nassau so far this year. The U.S government is also warning against water tours that are often a popular shore excursion for cruise ship passengers.
“Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated,” the advisory states. “Watercraft may be poorly maintained and some operators may not have safety certifications.”
Commercial watercraft operators in the Bahamas “have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts” the advisory states, adding that “injuries and fatalities have occurred.”
Bahamas officials say they are aware of the problems and are “alert, attentive and proactive” to make sure tourists are safe, according to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister.
“The safety and security of everyone is of paramount importance to us and we are confident that the Bahamas will remain safe and welcoming for millions of visitors to continue to enjoy the magic and beauty of our beautiful islands,” the statement read.
Carnival spokesman John Heald said on his Facebook page that the cruise line is aware of the advisory and that no itineraries have been adjusted. “As part of our regular safety and security procedures, we are routinely monitoring the local destinations our ships visit, relying on government and law enforcement expertise,” Heald said. “We continue to consult with embassy officials and our security team has determined we can continue with our planned visits to Nassau, which has enhanced policing of tourist areas. The safety of our guests and crew is our priority, and when any adjustments to itineraries are deemed necessary, we will react quickly.”
The Sunshine was scheduled to depart Charleston on Feb. 3 for a five-night cruise with stops in Nassau and Princess Cays.
