Personal Safety and Cruising

[rognvald]

One would have to go through life with blinders on not to see the increasing number of crimes committed against cruising sailors in the last ten years. From thefts of dinghys, motors, and personal effects to serious crimes against the person: rape, murder, robbery and battery in areas where crime formerly didn't exist. I personally have never experienced crime while cruising the Bahamas and the Caribbean but have known those who were not as fortunate as myself. Noonsite is one of many excellent sites, as is CruisersForum, that details and exposes this sad state of affairs. The questions is: How much risk are you willing to take to pursue your dream with the potential of exposing yourself and your mate(s) to a potentially life altering experience of crime? Will this change your cruising destinations/plans for the future? Is the journey to these potential hotspots worth the risk?