Back to Home

Safety Guidelines

Your safety is our priority. Please read before your visit.

The Village at Athol Island is committed to the safety and well-being of every guest. As a natural island environment with open water access, boat transportation, and outdoor activities, all guests are asked to review and follow these safety guidelines for a safe, enjoyable experience.

1. General Conduct

  • Follow all instructions from staff and crew at all times.
  • Treat fellow guests, staff, and the natural environment with respect.
  • The Village reserves the right to refuse service or remove any guest whose behavior is disruptive, unsafe, or in violation of these guidelines.
  • Guests are responsible for their own belongings. The Village is not liable for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property.

2. Children & Supervision

  • Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Children must be supervised at all times, especially near water.
  • Life jackets are available and recommended for all children near or in the water.
  • Children under 3 may not be permitted on certain water-based activities.

3. Boat Safety

  • All guests must remain seated during boarding, transit, and docking.
  • Life jackets are available on all vessels. Staff will provide a safety briefing before departure.
  • Follow all crew instructions during the crossing.
  • Do not lean over the sides of the vessel or place limbs outside the boat.
  • Guests who are visibly intoxicated may be denied boarding at the crew's discretion.

4. Water Activities & Beach Safety

  • Swim only in designated areas.
  • Non-swimmers and weak swimmers should wear a life jacket at all times near or in water.
  • Do not dive headfirst into shallow areas.
  • Snorkeling and water sport equipment must be used as instructed.
  • Respect marine life. Do not touch, stand on, or disturb coral or sea creatures.
  • Exit the water immediately if instructed by staff.

5. Sun & Heat Safety

  • Apply reef-safe sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing are strongly recommended.
  • Shaded areas are available on the island — use them often, especially during midday hours.
  • If you feel dizzy, overheated, or unwell, notify staff immediately.

6. Health Advisory

  • This experience involves boat travel, physical activity, and exposure to sun and sea conditions.
  • Guests with heart conditions, respiratory issues, recent surgeries, or those who are pregnant should consult their physician before booking.
  • Please inform staff of any medical conditions, allergies, or accessibility needs on arrival.
  • First aid supplies are available on-site. In case of emergency, staff will coordinate transport back to Nassau.

7. Alcohol Policy

  • Alcohol is served on the island to guests aged 18 and older.
  • Please drink responsibly. Staff reserve the right to limit or refuse alcohol service.
  • Intoxicated guests may be restricted from water activities or boat boarding for safety.

8. Environmental Responsibility

  • Athol Island is a natural, protected environment. Please help us keep it clean.
  • Do not litter. Use designated waste and recycling bins.
  • Do not remove shells, coral, sand, or any natural materials from the island.
  • Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem.

9. Prohibited Items

The following items are not permitted on the island:

Glass containers or bottles
Outside food and beverages
Illegal substances
Weapons or sharp objects
Drones (without prior written approval)
Pets (service animals excepted)
Speakers or amplified music devices
Fireworks or open flames

10. Liability & Acknowledgment

By booking and attending The Village at Athol Island, guests acknowledge that participation involves inherent risks associated with open water, boat travel, sun exposure, and outdoor activities.

Harbor Point Holdings d/b/a The Village at Athol Island is not liable for personal injuries, property damage, or losses arising from guest negligence or failure to follow safety guidelines.

All guests may be required to sign a digital waiver before boarding, acknowledging these terms. Guests who refuse to sign the waiver may be denied boarding without a refund.

Emergency & Contact

If you experience a medical emergency or safety concern while on the island, notify the nearest staff member immediately.

For general inquiries: hello@thevillageatholisland.com

Phone: +1 (242) 825-6265

Emergency services (Bahamas): 911 or 919