Countries have different laws and age limits when it comes to certain activities. For example, the legal age to consume alcohol is 21 in the US but only 19 in Canada. This can cause confusion for those traveling to a different place. Before you leave for your vacation to the Bahamas, here are some legal age limits you should know about!
Alcohol
The legal drinking age in the Bahamas in 18. Visitors can legally consume or purchase alcohol in the country at that age, regardless of the drinking age in their home country. Just be aware that alcohol isn’t sold on Sundays though!
Driving
The legal driving age in the Bahamas is 17 years old. However, that doesn’t mean just anyone can rent a car while on vacation. The minimum age for renting a car is 21, and some places have an even high age limit of 23 or 25. Make sure to double check with the rental company before you arrive to see if you meet the age requirements.
Traveling
To visit the Bahamas by air, all visitors need a valid passport regardless of age. The rules are a bit different for those arriving by cruise ship though. All cruise passengers 16 years or older need a valid passport, but children 15 and under may use a certified birth certificate instead.
Minors or those under 18, traveling in the Bahamas need additional documents as well. If a minor is traveling without their legal guardian or parent, they must have a signed and notarized letter of consent from their guardian to travel outside the US.
Smoking
There is no formal smoking age restriction for tobacco in the Bahamas. That means legally anyone of any age can smoke cigarettes in the country. However, the legal purchasing age for tobacco is 18 years old.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving requires more skill and effort than other activities available in the Bahamas. In order to ensure safety, visitors must be at least 10 years old in order to participate in diving activities. All persons under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and all persons under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign for them.
Marijuana
All cannabis products, including medicinal marijuana, is currently illegal in the Bahamas. The government is currently looking into decriminalizing and potentially legalizing marijuana, but it is still currently illegal. All visitors should avoid any cannabis products or they may face legal repercussions.
Activities
The Bahamas, and especially Exuma, offers tons of exciting activities such as the famous swimming pigs, fishing excursions, snorkeling in caves, or swimming with sharks. Visitors should check with local tour companies to see if they have any age restrictions on these activities. Some of these activities may not be suitable for children, and if parents wish to bring them they assume liability.