Is Nassau safe?

[Disneyland_emily]

Im in a tough spot. My friend who Ill be cruising with in May on the Wonder said today that she (and her dad) decided that Nassau wasnt safe and she doesnt want to get off the boat that day. I'm *thinking* this has some to do with it being her first trip without the parental units (she's an only child) but anywho, as its just the 2 of us and I would love to spend some time in Nassau (but prob shouldnt ditch her)and especially see the Pirate Museaum that is very close to the straw market.

Ive asked my friends who have cruised before (one who worked on a cruise for 2 years) and they both say Nassau is safe for toursits, and I dont think Disney and all the other cruise lines would have it be a stop if they felt that their cruisers would be in danger.

Im not talkin about strayin off the beaten path at all taking a stroll though the Straw Market and the Pirate Museaum with the time I want to spend is 2-3 hours tops- I know about the locals tryin to push their goods on ya (heck Ive been to Tiquana) but would 2 23-27 year olds be JUST FINE spending a few hours on shore??

If anyone has any ideas on ways to help convince her its a safe place to spend a few hours Id appreciate it!

-em

 

[WDWLVR]

I would say that Nassau is just as safe as any other city. Staying in the tourist areas during the day you'll be fine. Keep an eye on your wallet/purse/fanny pack. Don't flash lots of money. Don't wander into unknown areas. Shop at the stores the ship recommends.

If you do all that you'll have an enjoyable stay.

I'm all for staying on board when one has already been there because it doesn't do much for me (though we love to go over to Atlantis for the day). As for a first time visit I think exploring the town would be great and the pirate museum sounds like fun.

 

[moneypit85]

Have been to Nassau during vacation in the area, not a cruise, I can say H and I spent many hrs. in the downtown area with no problems, even went back serveral days. DO NOT let the locals stray you away from main streets and do not let them touch you, do keep an eye on personal property and do not pull out large amounts of money. for the most part they are all helpful and nice people. but they know you are a tourist!! and it is amazing how they know you have come from a ship! They did ask us but we were staying at a resort. they knew what time the ships left port and everything, they use this if you are looking at jewlery or other expensive item, and are unable to make up your mind, they will tell YOU, well YOU have about 3 or so hrs to make up your mind, and they also use it against you somewhat, they know some will come in at last min. to make deal! anyway , I think It would be a great excursion just BE SMART

 

[gonna go cruising]

I felt safe enough with just me and my daughter last week. I wasn't thrilled to be asked over and over to get our hair braided though.

We hadnt planned on going off the ship since we had been there before but decided what the heck lets go for the sake of going and went to the straw market and a few other shops in the immediate area.

I did buy a shirt that was truly funny, though I will never wear it anywhere but around the house. It says:

Top 5 Tourist Responses in Nassau
1. NO, I don't want my hair braided.
2. NO, I don't need a taxi.
3. NO, I don't want any drugs.
4. NO, I don't want any peanuts.
5. NO, My name is not sweetie.

Only 1,2,and 5 applied. I think you all will be fine there. Just say no thank you and move on. I have a friend who went with several people, and one happened to call her by name in the straw market. By the time she was leaving, many of the vendors were calling her by name also. She won't make that mistake again!

 

[FLeisure]

The hair braiding thing is a nuisence but we simply tell them that our girls school won't allow it when we return. That shut's them up usually.

Nassau is a nice port and I've been several times now and never felt unsafe. As with anywhere in the world you need to keep your wits about you and be sensible with what you wear and what you carry.

If your friend doesn't want to leave the ship that's her prerogative but she'll be missing out on a nice day ashore and the many possibilities there are to enjoy oneself.

Why not suggest an hour around town to her and once she's settled down you'll probably end up spending more time ashore?

As for moneypits advice...well, that works both ways doesn't it ! "This is my price take it or leave it cause I'm getting back on the ship in a minute and then I'll be gone".

As for the main streets bit, I've wandered around many a time off the main streets and not been troubled.

 

[DisneyGator01]

Have you thought about doing a DCL sponsored excursion.. that way you have DCL provided transportation to and from.. and will be with other DCL cruisers.

Personally, I think it is just as safe as walking around any other town during the day... it's just poor.

Besides.. I bet once you (and hopefully your friend) get off and shop for an hour or so, you will want right back on the ship.

 

[professorandmom]

I am a single mom and walked alone and shopped for a couple of hours. Luckily I have short hair so the braiders weren't a problem but it was a bit uncomfortable. The main streets were OK. I've lived in the downtown of two major cities in the US and it was basically no worse - pan handlers etc. Was it "fun?" no, I wouldn't say so but I did negotiate a good purchase and then returned to my veranda for a drink and room service...now that's relaxing!
Barbara