Nassau, The Bahamas – Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) has been nominated again for The Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port 2025 in the annual World Travel Awards program—marking its second consecutive year receiving this prestigious honour.

Just two years after its grand reopening, Nassau Cruise Port continues to exceed expectations. On April 8, 2025, the port welcomed a record-breaking 31,011 cruise passengers in a single day, a milestone that highlights its remarkable growth and increasing global appeal. “This second consecutive nomination is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the dedication and excellence of our entire team,” said Mike Maura, Jr., CEO & Director of Nassau Cruise Port.

“Nassau Cruise Port is not only setting a new benchmark for Caribbean cruise destinations—it’s showing the world the warmth, creativity, and spirit of The Bahamas. We are honoured to be recognized again.”

The nomination underscores commitment of the cruise port team to delivering an Authentically Bahamian experience, from the vibrant Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo that welcomes visitors at the port entrance to the diverse local vendors and retailers who bring the sights, sounds, and flavours of The Bahamas to life every day. Continuously raising the bar, NCP recently became a proud participant in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a global initiative supporting travelers with non-visible disabilities.

This initiative promotes inclusivity and helps ensure every guest feels welcomed and supported—further establishing the port as a leader in the cruise industry. “We are incredibly proud of how far we’ve come—and even more excited about what’s ahead,” Mr. Maura, Jr., added.

“This nomination is a tribute to every team member, partner, and Bahamian who plays a role in making Nassau the exciting world-class destination it is today.”

Phase two of the redevelopment of the port is now underway, introducing new features such as a portside pool experience and expanded yacht and marina services—further enhancing what Nassau offers to cruise passengers.

You can support Nassau Cruise Port by voting at www.worldtravelawards.com/vote.

By Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

Regional and U.S. authorities are sounding a loud alarm: Haiti is unsafe for travel.

July 17, 2025 – In two back-to-back warnings, the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Department of State have advised their citizens against travel to Haiti, citing kidnapping, terrorism, gang violence, mob justice, civil unrest, and a failing healthcare system.

The U.S. Department of State’s Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, reissued this week, includes a new terrorism indicator and leaves no ambiguity: “Do not travel to Haiti for any reason.” Since July 2023, non-emergency U.S. personnel and their families have been ordered out of the country.

According to the alert, kidnapping is widespread, including against U.S. citizens, who in some cases have been injured or killed. Victims have been targeted during routine activities or ambushed in convoys, with families forced to pay ransom demands ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The advisory also warns of mob killings and vigilante-style executions, where crowds have publicly assaulted individuals suspected of committing crimes.

Bahamian Advisory Adds Context for Caribbean Citizens

The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued its updated travel guidance earlier this week, urging Bahamian citizens to reconsider any travel to Haiti and take “extreme precautions” if already in-country.

Citizens are advised to:

• Stockpile essentials (food, water, fuel)
• Avoid walking, driving, or using public transport—especially at night
• Use secure vehicles with locked doors and tinted windows

State of Emergency and Rogue Law Enforcement

Haiti remains under a state of emergency declared in March 2024. Protests, civil unrest, and attacks on public infrastructure are frequent. The advisory notes that police presence is unreliable, and rogue elements of the Haitian National Police (PNH) may be operating. Travelers are cautioned to exercise extreme care when approached by law enforcement, or when navigating official roadblocks.

Firearms and Crime

Guns are widespread, and crimes involving firearms—including robberies, carjackings, and sexual assaults—are common. Citizens are warned not to attempt to procure or supply firearms under any pretext. Gunfire at night and isolated beaches should be avoided due to criminal activity.

Health Risks and Limited Care

Healthcare is described as dangerously limited. Hospitals are often closed due to unrest or attacks, and under-equipped when open. Payment is required upfront, even with insurance. Bahamian citizens are urged to secure emergency evacuation insurance.

There is an active cholera outbreak (since 2022), and risks remain high for malaria, dengue, chikungunya, zika, and other vector-borne diseases. Recommended vaccines include hepatitis A/B, cholera, rabies, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, and polio.

Legal and Border Controls

Travelers are reminded to carry proper identification. Failure to produce legal status may result in detention or fines. The possession of cannabis or controlled substances carries 1–15 years imprisonment, and foreigners risk deportation. Agricultural goods and endangered species such as conch require proper documentation to avoid fines of up to $10,000 USD.

Natural Disasters

The advisory also reminds the public that Haiti is vulnerable to hurricanes during the June–November season, and remains seismically active, with earthquake and tsunami risks in coastal regions.

Final Guidance

While The Bahamas and Haiti share cultural ties, both governments warn that anyone perceived as foreign or affluent may be at risk, regardless of race or heritage.

Citizens currently in Haiti are urged to:

• Remain indoors after dark
• Monitor trusted local media
• Comply with curfews and evacuation orders
• Register with the nearest Bahamian or allied embassy

The travel alerts remain in effect until further notice.