Record Smashed: The Bahamas Welcomed 11.22 Million Visitors in 2024
by Bruce Parkinson
The Bahamas is attracting record visitor numbers, by land and by sea.
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism is celebrating the destination’s best year ever after welcoming 11.22 million international visitors in 2024, soaring past the 9.65 million arrivals in 2023.
“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,” said The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation.
“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.”
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 of pre-pandemic 2019 by 3.3%.
The momentum grew stronger as the year progressed, with December 2024 the best month in the destination’s history in terms of arrivals, with 1.15 million visitors, posting 14% ahead of 2023 and 62% ahead of 2019.
The tourism success came despite the disruptions of Hurricane Milton and Oscar. And it extended beyond Nassau and Paradise Island – 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 tourism expenditures during the 2023/2024 cruise year, according to a Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) report. When factoring in employment, taxes, and levies, the total economic impact surpasses $1 billion, underscoring the sector’s vital contribution to the nation.
The success of the Bahamas is underscored by the attraction of more than US$10 billion in Foreign Direct Investments over the last two years. Much of that came in the luxury segment, with brands including Rosewood, Six Senses, Montage, Park Hyatt, Bvglari and Four Seasons Residences burnishing the archipelago’s brand image.
“The Bahamas’ exceptional tourism growth reflects our relentless drive to elevate the visitor experience and expand our global reach,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism.
“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.”
