Question 1

What is the "Jet Ski Damage Claim Scam" scam in Nassau?

Accepted Answer

Rental operators at Cable Beach and other Nassau beaches rent jet skis to tourists, then claim pre-existing scratches or damage were caused by the renter and demand hundreds of dollars in cash. In some cases operators deliberately steer tourists toward hidden rocks. The threat of police involvement is used to coerce payment on the spot. Photograph and video every inch of the jet ski before departing, with the operator present. Use only operators affiliated with your hotel or with visible business licenses and signage. Pay by credit card where possible so you have dispute rights.

Question 2

What is the "Jet Ski Operator Sexual Assault" scam in Nassau?

Accepted Answer

Sexual assaults perpetrated by independent jet ski rental operators have been documented on Nassau beaches and in surrounding waters. The U.S. State Department considers the risk serious enough to prohibit U.S. government employees from renting personal watercraft from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands. The UK FCDO issues the same warning. Operators use the isolated nature of open water to commit assaults away from other beachgoers. The lack of regulation in Nassau's water sports sector means operators often have no verifiable licensing or insurance. Only rent jet skis from operators attached to major licensed resorts such as Atlantis or British Colonial Beach, where staff are vetted. Never go on open-water rides alone with an independent operator. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, return to shore immediately and report to resort security or call 919 (Bahamas emergency).

Question 3

What is the "Fake Tour Guide at Historic Sites" scam in Nassau?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial "guides" station themselves at Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, and the Queen's Staircase, offering to show tourists around. At the end they demand $30–$50 per person claiming it was a paid tour, despite no price being quoted upfront. Some become confrontational when tourists offer smaller tips. The Queen's Staircase and Fort Charlotte have official guides and signage — look for government-issued ID badges. Agree on any payment in writing or verbally in clear terms before the tour begins. If someone approaches uninvited, it is safe to decline.

Tour & Activity Scams in Nassau

Jet Ski Damage Claim Scam

Jet Ski Operator Sexual Assault

Fake Tour Guide at Historic Sites

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