The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has announced record-breaking,
unprecedented tourism growth, welcoming more than 11.22 million international
visitors in 2024. This exceeds the 9.65 million arrivals in the previous year.
The Honorable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and
Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation said in a statement, "The Bahamas
has not only exceeded its targets but remains a steadfast global leader in the
tourism industry and a dominant presence in the Caribbean region.”
He added, “These record-breaking achievements are a powerful
testament to the tourism marketing strides by the Ministry of Tourism and the
supportive dedication of our partners across the destination, who, alongside
our passionate locals, continue to offer unparalleled experiences throughout
our beautiful and culturally rich islands.”
Despite some natural occurrence disruptions to the tourism
sector such as Hurricanes Milton and Oscar, the destination flourished. Foreign
air and sea arrivals shattered the previous year’s number by 16.2 percent and
2019 figures by an impressive 54.7 percent. Foreign air arrivals across the
island nation exceeded 1.7 million in line with 2023’s performance but ahead
2019 by 3.3 percent.
While The Bahamas is an ideal destination for year-round
travel, December 2024 was the best month ever in terms of arrivals with 1.15
million visitors, posting 14 percent ahead of 2023 and 62 percent ahead of
2019.
The destination’s widespread appeal can also be found in the
arrival figures distribution. Grand
Bahama Island experienced an 8.7 percent growth in air arrivals, second
only to Abaco, showing a 11.9 percent growth over 2023, a solid return to
pre-Hurricane Dorian and pre-COVID levels.
According to a Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA)
report, the cruise industry continues to be a cornerstone of The Bahamas'
economy, generating a remarkable $654.8 million in cruise tourism expenditures
during the 2023/2024 cruise year. Factoring in employment, taxes and levies,
the total economic impact surpasses an astounding $1 billion, underscoring the
sector’s vital contribution to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
The attraction of more than $10 billion of Foreign Direct
Investments over the last two years with prestigious global brands such as
Rosewood, Six Senses, Montage, Park Hyatt, Bvglari and Four Seasons Residences
also played a part in the destination’s success and brand image, especially in
the 2024 luxury market.
"We thank our partners and stakeholders across several
industries, staff of the ministry of tourism, and the magnificent people of the
Commonwealth of The Bahamas who have embraced the mantra that ‘Tourism is
Everybody’s Business,’ for this wonderful achievement," Cooper added.
Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism said, “The
Bahamas’ exceptional tourism growth reflects our relentless drive to elevate
the visitor experience and expand our global reach. These milestones are the
result of innovative marketing strategies, strong industry partnerships, and
the unwavering hospitality of the Bahamian people.”
She added, “As we build on this momentum, we remain
committed to setting new standards in tourism excellence and welcoming even
more travelers to our extraordinary islands."
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