The U.S. Embassy in Nassau is urging Americans to avoid renting jet skis in The Bahamas after a series of deadly accidents, serious injuries, and reported sexual assaults involving some beach vendors and watercraft operators. The embassy said U.S. citizens face risks from rogue operators who solicit tourists near beaches, the cruise port, and small islands east of Paradise Island. Officials said many of these vendors are unlicensed, uninsured, and using unsafe watercraft.
The alert focuses on Nassau, Paradise Island, and other high-traffic visitor areas where tourists often encounter water sports rentals. Fox News reported that the embassy linked the advisory to several hospitalizations, one fatal accident, and multiple sexual assault reports. The alert comes while The Bahamas remains under a Level 2 travel advisory, which advises U.S. travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime and safety risks associated with boating, swimming, and beach activities.
Deadly Accidents And Sexual Assault Reports Prompt Embassy Safety Alert
The U.S. Embassy in Nassau said six U.S. citizens have been hospitalized with jet ski-related injuries since August 2024, including three who required emergency medical evacuation to the United States. Officials also cited one fatal accident. Fox News identified the victim as Alaska Air National Guard 2nd Lt. Robert Rosa, who died during a Nassau vacation in September 2025.
The embassy also cited reports of U.S. citizen women being sexually assaulted by jet ski operators. According to ABC7 Sarasota, officials reported three cases in 2024, two in 2025, and two in 2026. The State Department’s Bahamas travel advisory also warns that boating is not well-regulated and that sexual assaults by jet ski operators have been reported.
What Travelers Should Know Before Booking Beach Activities
The embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid renting jet skis, watch for solicitors near the cruise port and popular beaches, and follow local weather and marine alerts. The alert is especially relevant for visitors to Nassau, Paradise Island, Junkanoo Beach, Arawak Cay, and the small islands east of Paradise Island.
Bahamian officials have also tightened water sports rules. In March, The Tribune reported that jet ski operators were barred from riding with guests under new maritime regulations. Operators must now hold a Class D license, undergo deeper background checks, stay at least 200 feet from shore except at designated access points, display valid registration numbers, and follow a code of conduct.
