The Islands of the Bahamas welcomed a record-breaking 11.22 million international visitors in 2024, making it the best year ever, far exceeding the 9.65 million arrivals in 2023.

Despite a few disruptions to the tourism sector with natural occurrences such as Hurricanes Milton and Oscar, the destination flourished. According to The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, foreign air and sea arrivals shattered the previous year’s number by 16.2% and 2019 figures by 54.7%. Additionally, foreign air arrivals across the island nation exceeded 1.7 million in line with 2023 performance but ahead if 2019 by 3.3%.

December 2024 was the best month ever in terms of arrivals with 1.15 million visitors, posting 14% ahead of 2023 and 62% ahead of 2019.

Grand Bahama Island experienced an 8.7% growth in air arrivals, second only to Abaco, with a 11.9% growth over 2023 amounting to a solid return to pre-Hurricane Dorian and pre-COVID levels.

The cruise industry continues to be a cornerstone of The Bahamas’ economy, generating $654.8 million in cruise tourism expenditures during the 2023/24 cruise year, according to a Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) report.

Additionally, 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 luxury market, in 2024.

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. As we build on this momentum, we remain committed to setting new standards in tourism excellence and welcoming even more travellers to our extraordinary islands.”

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