Bermuda is Finding Its Sweet Spot with Canadian Travellers Seeking Authenticity and Proximity

There’s something about Bermuda and Canadians are discovering it more than ever.

As global travel patterns continue to evolve, Bermuda is emerging as one of the Caribbean’s most agile destinations that balances authenticity with a growing connection with Canadian travellers.

Travel Market Report Canada was on scene at the Bermuda Partnership Summit earlier this week in Bermuda where during a “State of the Travel Industry” discussion, leaders from across the Caribbean shed light on how shifting consumer expectations, geopolitical uncertainty, and new travel technologies are shaping the future of tourism.

Among the key takeaways: Canadian travellers are playing a larger role than ever before in Bermuda’s visitor mix.

“We’ve seen a huge increase in Canadian air arrivals, up more than 30% year-over-year,” said Nina Steinhoff, Director of Marketing at the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “Canadians are travelling closer to home, and Bermuda’s location, safety, and sense of authenticity are resonating strongly.”

Canadians Leaning into “Closer to Home” Luxury

With 23% of Canadians striking the U.S. off their travel lists for the next three years, Bermuda’s proximity—less than a three-hour flight from Toronto or Montreal—is proving to be a major advantage.

Steinhoff credits not just accessibility, but storytelling: “We’re leading with the voices of Bermudians. Visitors want to experience the island through the eyes of our people, whether that’s joining a foraging tour with Dr. Rosemarie Greene or exploring our cultural history through local guides.”

New airlift from Air Canada and BermudAir, including direct Montreal service, has further unlocked opportunities for the Canadian market.

The Caribbean’s Reimagined Phase

For the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the focus is shifting from recovery to re-imagination.
“We’re moving away from a numbers game and toward value—community-based, regenerative tourism that benefits local people,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary General and CEO of the CTO.

She emphasized the importance of connecting visitors with the essence of place: “We’re seeing that what visitors want, the authenticity, culture, sustainability, is the same thing our communities want. It’s not just about sun and sand anymore.”

New Booking Behaviours: Last-Minute and Multi-Generational

According to industry consultant Scott Mayerowitz, travellers are booking closer to departure, influenced by economic and political uncertainty. “There’s been a surge of last-minute bookings,” he noted. “People want flexibility but they’re still willing to spend for something meaningful.”

Multi-generational travel is also booming, often funded by older generations seeking memorable experiences with family. “Grandparents are paying for the trip, and they want something special,” said Mayerowitz.

Bermuda’s Digital Edge

Bermuda is also embracing digital innovation. The BTA is set to launch an AI-powered trip-planning chatbot on its website later this year, making it easier for travellers to discover experiences and connect with local guides.

While 42% of leisure travellers are now using AI tools to plan trips, Steinhoff said the human touch remains central: “We use technology to refine our messaging and connect with travellers, but we always lead with the human story, the Bermuda voice.”

The Cruise Question

Cruise tourism remains a topic of debate across the Caribbean. For Bermuda, smaller ships and longer stays align best with the island’s strategy. “Cruise guests are often first-time visitors,” said Steinhoff. “Our goal is to make sure their first taste of Bermuda inspires them to come back and stay longer.”

Regis-Prosper added that while large ships deliver volume, destinations should identify the segments that fit their capacity and values. “Cruise tourism can work beautifully when it supports local vendors and aligns with sustainable goals,” she said.

Authenticity is the New Luxury

Across the discussion, one message was clear: travellers, especially Canadians, are craving meaningful, people-first experiences.

As Bermuda positions itself for 2026 and beyond, the destination’s blend of proximity, safety, and cultural depth continues to attract discerning Canadian travellers seeking something more intentional than the typical beach escape.

“It’s not just about visiting,” said Steinhoff. “It’s about connecting with our people, our history, and our way of life. That’s what keeps travellers coming back.”