If you’re thinking of taking a cruise, you might want to do some research first. Some cruise ports are not very safe, and the US Department of State has issued travel advisories for them. These are the Level 3 and 4 advisories, which means you should either reconsider traveling there or don’t travel at all. We’ve listed the most dangerous cruise ports below, so you can check if your cruise stops at any of them. If it does, you should be extra careful and alert when you get off the ship. Or if you don’t want to take any risks, you can always stay on board. Check out 9 Reasons Why I’m Skipping Port Days on My Next Cruise
Most Dangerous Cruise Ports in the World
Jamaica
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Ports: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Falmouth
Jamaica is a popular destination for cruise travelers, but it also has a high level of violent crime. The US Department of State has issued a Level 3 travel advisory, which means that travelers should reconsider visiting Jamaica.
The main risks are homicide and sexual assault, which occur frequently in many areas of the country. Travelers should be aware of the security situation and avoid dangerous places. Violence and shootings happen regularly in many neighborhoods, communities, and parishes in Jamaica.
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Papua New Guinea
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Ports: Alotau, Rabaul, Kiriwina Island, Conflict Islands
Papua New Guinea’s cruise ports are destinations for cruise ships from Asia and Australia, but it also poses many dangers for travelers. The U.S. Department of State warns against visiting the country due to high levels of crime, civil unrest, piracy, kidnapping, poor healthcare services, and potential natural disasters.
Travelers should be especially vigilant in the waters around Papua New Guinea, where pirates have attacked and robbed boats with U.S. citizens on board. The U.S. government has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Papua New Guinea, especially outside of the capital city.
Columbia
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Port: Cartagena
Cartegena is a popular cruise port for Panama Canal cruises. However, do keep in mind that the US Department of State has given it a Level 3 travel advisory.
Colombia is one of the most dangerous destinations for travelers due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Violent and organized crime is widespread and can target anyone, including U.S. government facilities. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations operate and carry out attacks throughout the country with little or no warning. The attacks may target transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, and other public areas.
Demonstrations are frequent and can disrupt transportation and public services, sometimes with violence and fatalities. If your cruise is stopping in Cartagena, you can play it safe by staying onboard the ship or being extra vigilant when you’re in port.
Guatemala
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Ports: Puerto Quetzal and Santo Tomas de Castilla
Guatemala has received a Level 3 Travel Advisory. It is a country with high levels of crime and violence, which pose serious risks to travelers.
Some of the most common crimes are extortion, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, narcotics trafficking and gang activity.
The local police force is often unable to prevent or investigate these crimes effectively, resulting in low rates of arrest and conviction.
Guatemala does have a National Tourist Assistance Program (PROATUR) that offers 24-hour emergency assistance and guidance to tourists. PROATUR also provides additional security in tourist locations.
El Salvador
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Port: Acajutla
The US Department of State advises travelers to rethink their plans to visit El Salvador because of the high risk of crime. Although gangs are less active than before, violence is still common in many parts of the country.
Some areas are safer than others, but travelers may have to cross dangerous zones to reach them. The local police may not have enough resources to deal with serious crimes, especially in urban areas. Resort areas tend to have more security than other places.
Honduras
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Port: Roatan
Roatan is one of the most dangerous cruise ports in the world because of the high levels of crime and kidnapping. Honduras has a level 3 travel advisory warning.
Many types of violent crimes, such as murder, robbery, and abduction, are frequent. Gangs are involved in various criminal activities, such as extortion, street violence, rape, and drug and human trafficking. The local authorities and emergency services are not well-equipped to deal with serious crimes effectively.
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Trinidad and Tobago
- Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Port: Port of Spain
Port of Spain is one of the most dangerous cruise ports in the world. The U.S. government is advising citizens not to travel to Trinidad and Tobago because of the high risk of crime, terrorism and kidnapping.
Some areas in Port of Spain are especially dangerous and off-limits including the following areas in Port of Spain: Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah. U.S. government personnel are not allowed to go to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all beaches at night.
Violent crime is widespread and often linked to gangs and drugs. Terrorist attacks could happen at any time and target public places such as tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, malls, hotels, restaurants, airports, schools, and even places of worship.
Haiti
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
Haiti currently has the highest travel advisory of Level 4 – Do Not Travel. The US Department of State has advised Americans not to travel to Haiti due to the high risk of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor healthcare infrastructure. The situation has become so dangerous that non-emergency US government personnel and their families have been asked to leave Haiti immediately.
Kidnapping is a common and widespread occurrence in Haiti, with US citizens often among the victims. Violent crime is also prevalent, with travelers frequently followed and attacked shortly after leaving the Port-au-Prince airport.
What to Do if Your Cruise Ship Docks at One of these Ports
Many of the ports on this list are popular stops for cruise ships, so there’s a good chance you’ll be docking there. You can choose to stay onboard and skip the port, or you can take extra precautions when you’re ashore. My advice is to talk to the cruise shore excursion staff and express your concerns. They may have advice and tips to help keep you safe. Ask them which areas are considered “safe” to visit. Get the Port Agent’s contact information so you have it with you just in case you get into any trouble.
It’s also a good idea to keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or designer bags and keep your cruise card lanyard in your bag. Keep an eye on your belongings and consider using an anti-slash bag. Avoid walking around at night and come back to the ship early. When it comes to transportation, be careful with cabs and Uber, and don’t take public buses. Instead, book a shore excursion from the cruise ship to be on the safe side.
It’s best to stay vigilant and avoid secluded areas. Don’t drink too much at these cruise ports, and be aware of your surroundings. The US Department of State advises that if you’re faced with a robbery attempt, don’t physically resist. Remember to keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings. Check out our guide: 11 Anti-theft cruise tips every cruisers needs to know.
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