Here are five cruise ports with serious safety warnings that travelers should know
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Traveling to tropical destinations may sound carefree and bucket list-like, but industry experts say some of the most popular ports of call come with safety concerns that travelers shouldn’t ignore.
Experts say passengers should understand local risks before disembarking, especially in destinations with high crime rates or active government warnings.
A recent podcast, “Travel Scouts” It highlighted a number of cruise ports where safety concerns are high, based on crime data and international travel advisories.
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Here are the five mentioned.
“You need to have information so you can make smart decisions,” the podcast said.
Belize
Belize was the first cruise port the podcast mentioned on this topic.
Approximately one million cruise passengers visit the country each year; however, Belize City is currently under a Level 3 advisory from the U.S. State Department, meaning travelers should reconsider visiting.
Trips to tropical destinations may seem worry-free, but travelers should be aware of safety concerns at some destinations. (Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group)
“Belize City is a very sketchy area,” said Jason, one of the hosts. “Travel Scouts” podcast with his wife, Kellie.
Trinidad and Tobago
Another port that has expressed concerns is Trinidad and Tobago.
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The locations remain under a Level 3 advisory due to crime; There are warnings about the risks of robbery, kidnapping and violence linked to organized crime.
The podcast said many major cruise lines are planning stops here, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America.
Belize attracts approximately one million cruise visitors annually, but Belize City is under a Level 3 US travel advisory. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Jamaica
An essential stop for Caribbean cruises, Jamaica offers both progress and ongoing risks.
Although overall conditions have improved and the country is now rated at Level 2, some areas remain at high risk.
These high-risk areas include Kingston and Montego Bay.
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“If your trip will visit one of these ports, be aware of this and make sure you don’t plan on taking a taxi and exploring on your own,” Jason said.
Mexican
Mexico also attracts millions of cruise visitors each year, but safety can vary greatly depending on location.
Improvements have been seen in Jamaica, a major cruise stop in the Caribbean, but higher-risk areas, including Kingston and Montego Bay, remain, industry experts say. (iStock)
Ports on the Yucatán Peninsula are generally considered safe.
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However, some Pacific coast destinations such as Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo have experienced security problems linked to cartel violence.
Haiti
The podcast noted that Haiti stands out as one of the most dangerous destinations in the region.
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The country is currently under a Level 4 “do not travel” warning due to widespread gang violence and political instability.
“There is no need to fear or avoid cruise ports,” the podcast said.
“You just need to take appropriate precautions and plan wisely.”
