BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF TOURISM & AVIATION STATEMENT ON CRUISE VIDEO AND SAFETY

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation shares the following update regarding the YouTube video currently attracting attention and concern in the community. While there is speculation that this video may be a leverage tactic, we have no evidence that this video was influenced by anyone other than its creator.

The Ministry of Tourism maintains active dialogue with the cruise lines as both parties look to navigate a mutually beneficial relationship. In this regard, it is important to both The Bahamas and to the cruise lines that our destination remains desirable. Private islands have been a feature of cruise itineraries for some years now and are not a replacement for Nassau. Our negotiations and work with cruise lines on myriad issues are part of an ongoing process to balance the needs and priorities of The Bahamas with theirs.

We are very actively engaged in protecting the reputation of The Bahamas by aggressively telling our stories through our advertising, content and also through bringing reputable journalists to experience our hospitality. This work is a strong counter to incidents like this. We are close to deciding which plan for our next generation cruise port will move forward and that will be a key product improvement that will add to the Nassau experience and our reputation.

The assertions made that Nassau is the most dangerous destination is refuted emphatically.  We take the issue of visitor safety very seriously.  The continuing efforts of our police to combat crime and create a safer destination for our residents and our visitors is the most effective statement on behalf of our port and the Ministry of Tourism applauds the progress made in this area. We support their efforts and the recently formed Tourism Safety & Security Advisory Committee will hopefully contribute as well to visitor and resident safety