The Bahamas achieves tourism success with record number of 8 million visitors in 2023

This remarkable success is the result of unified efforts, strategic planning and visionary initiatives carried out not only by the Ministry of Tourism, but reinforced by the undisputed support of stakeholders such as Nassau/Paradise Island Promotion, The Bahamas Out Islands Promotion Board and The Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Association.

"The Bahamas has long been a sought-after destination and reaching 8 million visitors is a milestone that reflects the collective dedication of our tourism professionals across the country. Our success lies not solely in the appeal of our islands, but in the strategic efforts we have made. As we celebrate this achievement, we are equally focused on forging a future that ensures sustained growth year after year and enhances the visitor experience," optimistically stated the Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas, who is also Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation, I. Chester Cooper.

Sales and marketing strategies have been key to positioning The Bahamas as a top tourist destination. The Ministry of Tourism reached audiences around the world through targeted digital marketing campaigns, social media and strategic partnerships. These efforts, combined with creative and impactful advertising initiatives, showcased the many attractions and unique experiences that continue to make The Bahamas a must-visit destination.

The Government's commitment to ensuring a welcoming and fluid tourism environment fostered positive relationships with industry partners. Innovative cruise strategies, accompanied by an increase in air travel, have contributed significantly to the increase in visitor numbers. Additionally, collaboration with major cruise companies, the development of new cruise ports and the introduction of shore excursions have improved the overall travel experience.

For Tourism Director General Latia Duncombe, "this historic milestone in visitor arrivals is a clear indicator of the unique charm and richness of our 16-island destination. Our unwavering dedication to offering diverse and authentic experiences underlines our strategy of Marca Bahamas. We ensure that each traveler's trip is not a simple visit, but an unforgettable and enriching experience that invites them to return to our beautiful coasts."

The support and collaboration of tourism agents, promotion councils and associated hotels have played a fundamental role in this success. "Our partners have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. Their continued collaboration is key to our sustained success and together we will shape the future of tourism and the Bahamas' economy," Cooper said.

As The Bahamas celebrates this unprecedented achievement, the Ministry of Tourism looks to the future, developing future strategies to ensure sustained growth in visitor arrivals and a continued positive trajectory for the tourism industry.

Success in numbers
Cruise arrivals since the beginning of the year have increased by more than 60% compared to the same period in 2022 and 45% compared to 2019, before the pandemic. Foreign arrivals by air, which include stopovers and day visitors, have increased by more than 20% compared to the same period last year.

Hotel occupancy exceeded that of 2019, with average daily rates and revenue per room significantly higher than that year. The Bahamas also continues to record gains in total visitor spending ashore. The minister hailed the result as a confluence of strategic planning and the continued confidence of hotel and cruise operators in the strength of the Bahamas brand.

"This record is no coincidence. We have some of the most attractive cruise destinations in the region, and the new port of Nassau is making waves. Nassau, Bimini, the Berry Islands, Half Moon Cay and other destinations have seen notable growth in cruise arrivals in the last two years, with more visitors disembarking from ships and spending more time on land. Something that is being felt throughout the economy," says Cooper.

According to him, the metrics are also changing with overnight visitors. "We see that room rates are almost 60% higher than in 2019 and yet occupancy rates are higher and room nights sold continue to increase. This not only translates into higher revenue for all involved in tourism, but also reflects the extraordinary demand that exists for our product," says the Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation of The Bahamas.

"The Ministry of Tourism and its partners dedicate a lot of time and energy to better understanding our customers. What we do know is that with the projects underway on many of our islands and, in the coming years, the restructuring of airport infrastructure in all of them, we will continue to increase the number of arrivals. This is the strongest moment that tourism has experienced, and we hope that our results will be strengthened and consolidated more every day," he concludes.