Planning a cruise sounds dreamy until the ship pulls into a port known for high crime or political chaos. But don’t panic—just get informed. These destinations have their risks, but if you play it smart, you can still have a good time. Here’s what travelers really say about the world’s trickiest cruise stops.
Nassau, Bahamas
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
It’s the busiest cruise port in the Caribbean, but also one of the riskiest. The U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 warning due to crimes like armed robbery and assault, even in tourist zones. Travelers recommend sticking to the cruise-sponsored excursions or hopping over to Atlantis Paradise Island, which feels safer.
Roatán, Honduras
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Roatán is beautiful above and below water, but it’s in Honduras—a country with a Level 3 travel advisory. While beach resorts and coral reefs lure tourists, locals report drug deals and shady encounters near the port.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Credit: flickr
This port’s got waterfalls and beaches, even bamboo rafting. However, it’s also got aggressive vendors and crime, especially if you wander off. Jamaica has a Level 3 warning, and its emergency services are under-resourced. Cruise forums mention feeling unsafe just a few blocks from the terminal.
Colon, Panama
Credit: flickr
Colon feels rundown, and crime statistics back that up. Pickpocketing and political protests are regular issues. Reddit users often suggest skipping any solo exploring. Instead, many passengers take a ship-organized tour inland or use the stop to relax on deck with fewer crowds onboard.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Gun crimes, robbery, and poor police response are all part of the picture in Santo Domingo. The area near the port reportedly has armed guards every few blocks, which tells you everything you need to know. If you still want to explore, only book with reputable excursion operators and avoid walking alone.
Belize City, Belize
Credit: flickr
It’s a gateway to Mayan ruins and wild jungle adventures, but Belize City has a Level 3 travel warning. Petty crime is frequent, and military-style guards at the port entrance make travelers uneasy. Still, the Belize Barrier Reef remains a top draw, best visited with a trusted tour guide or cruise group.
Acapulco, Mexico
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Once a playground for the rich and famous, Acapulco is now off-limits to U.S. government employees due to cartel violence and a Level 4 warning. Tourists tend to stay in port or book private resort access.
Cartagena, Colombia
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Cartagena is surrounded by a country with a Level 3 warning, but this colonial city is generally safer. Passengers mostly stick to the Old Town behind its thick stone walls. Petty theft is common, so experienced travelers carry dummy wallets or nothing at all when wandering the city streets.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Credit: flickr
While Puerto Rico doesn’t carry a formal travel warning, San Juan’s old-town charm does come with typical city risks. Pickpocketing happens a lot in tourist-heavy spots. Taxi scams are another issue.
Barcelona, Spain
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Barcelona is also called the pickpocket capital of Europe. Due to petty crime and potential protests, the U.S. has Spain listed at Level 2. Las Ramblas, the metro, and Sagrada Família are top theft zones. Travel with a zippered bag and stay aware in crowds.
Alexandria, Egypt
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Alexandria is pretty tense with a Level 3 warning tied to political unrest and street crime. Cruisers often report seeing armed escorts on their shore excursions. Solo travel isn’t recommended. However, many still visit to see ancient ruins. It’s smart to book through the ship and dress modestly, especially for women travelers.
Cozumel, Mexico
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Cozumel is usually calm compared to Mexico’s mainland, but even here, pickpockets operate in areas beyond the main tourist zones. Cruise veterans suggest leaving flashy jewelry behind and avoiding drinks from strangers. Shore excursions to Mayan ruins or snorkeling reefs are safer if you stick with trusted vendors.
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Credit: CNN
The U.S. State Department says, flat out, do not travel here. Port-au-Prince has high attack rates, kidnappings, and political instability. Most cruise ships don’t dock there. Instead, they go to Labadee, a private resort zone guarded and run by Royal Caribbean, far removed from Haiti’s unrest.
Falmouth, Jamaica
Credit: flickr
This Jamaican port has grown in popularity but shares the same safety problems seen in Ocho Rios. Outside the gated tourist area, things can feel uneasy. Locals often approach cruisers aggressively, and taxi scams are common.
Quintana Roo, Mexico
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
This region includes Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Despite its postcard looks, the U.S. advises increased caution due to rising cartel activity. Tourist scams, bar fights, and pickpocketing happen often.