5 dangerous cruise ports that travelers should research before booking excursions

Cruising to tropical destinations may sound carefree and a bucket-list best, but some of the most popular ports come withsafety concernstravelers should not ignore, industry experts say.

Passengers need to understand local risks before leaving the ship, especially in destinations with higher crime rates or active government warnings, experts say.

A recent podcast, “The Travel Scouts,”highlighted a number of cruise ports that have elevated safety concerns, based on crime data and international travel advisories.

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Here are five mentioned.

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“You need to have information so you can make wise decisions,” the podcast noted.

Belize

Belize was the first cruise port the podcast mentioned in this regard.

Nearly one million cruise passengers visit the country each year — but Belize City is currently under a Level 3 advisory from the U.S.State Department, meaningtravelers are urgedto reconsider visiting.

Cruises to tropical spots can seem worry-free, but passengers should remain aware of safety concerns at some destinations.(Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group)

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“Belize City is a very sketchy area,” said Jason, a host of“The Travel Scouts”podcast, along with his wife, Kellie. 

Trinidad and Tobago

Another port that has raised concerns is Trinidad and Tobago.

Belize draws nearly one million cruise visitors yearly, but Belize City is under a Level 3 U.S.travel advisory.(Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Jamaica

Jamaica, a key stopfor Caribbean cruises, presents both progress and remaining risks.

While overall conditions have improved and the country isnow rated at Level 2, certain areas are high risk.

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Those higher-risk areas include Kingston and Montego Bay.

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“If your cruise will be visiting one of those ports, just be aware of that and ensure you do not plan to get a taxi and go out solo to explore,” Jason said.

Mexico

Mexico alsodraws millions of cruise visitors each year, but safety can vary widely depending on location.

Jamaica, a major Caribbean cruise stop, has seen improvements, but higher-risk areas remain, including Kingston and Montego Bay, according to industry experts.(iStock)

Ports along the Yucatán Peninsula are generally considered safe. 

gang violenceand political instability.

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“You do not need to be afraid of or avoid the cruise ports,” the podcast noted. 

“You just need to take appropriate precautions and plan wisely.”