by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 6:20 PM ET, Tue February 4, 2025
At a year-in-review press conference held by the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), officials announced statistics that show the islands’ place as a strong and growing tourist destination.
“Our growth in 2024 is a direct result of our efforts to strengthen connectivity, position Antigua and Barbuda as a regional hub with two international airports, expand our hotel and accommodation offerings, invest in human capital, and stay on top our game,” said the Hon. Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation & Investment. “I want to recognise all the work that has been done by the teams at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Tourism and to our stakeholders whose collaborations and dedication have made this success possible.”
Antigua and Barbuda reported 330,281 stay-over visitors for the year and over 823,955 cruise passengers, breaking previous records of visitors. The growth in stay-over visitors was largely from the U.S. market, as well as from United Kingdom and Europe, Caribbean and LATAM, and Canada markets.
Contributing to the growth was increased air service from American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue, as well as the return of Condor and the introduction of Sunrise Airways. British Airways also increased service to the destination.
Looking ahead
2025 is shaping up to be another strong year for tourism in Antigua and Barbuda. CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Colin C. James said, “2025 promises even more with the first quarter of the year, bringing increased cruise calls for Antigua and Barbuda and more airlift, with Frontier set to launch its inaugural San Juan – Antigua service on February 15, 2025.”
Work is also being done to establish Antigua and Barbuda as a culinary hotspot, including fun promotions such as the Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month in May, which will see the expansion of culinary events to include Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week, FAB Fest, Food Forum and Eat Like A Local.
“From an exciting Culinary Month, to celebrating the 300th anniversary of Nelson’s Dockyard, and for the first time ever - Antigua and Barbuda playing host the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace from May 18 - 22, 2025 will be a packed year for Antigua and Barbuda,” says James.
To cap it off, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority also announced the launch of a revamped destination website: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com. Digital Media Manager at the Tourism Authority Sharifa George indicated that, “The new website is modern, cutting-edge, functional and meets the needs of all stakeholders. It offers data capture, allowing for a more targeted digital marketing approach and a user-friendly interface for all stakeholders.” Unique features of the website include a personalised viewing experience, best flight options to get to the destination, and special offers listings.
Learn more about this destination with TravelPulse Canada’s Travel Guide to Antigua.
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