In what the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism calls “an extraordinary display of the strength of our country's tourism sector,” the nation announced record-breaking visitor arrivals for 2023, exceeding all forecasted projections.
Surpassing all previous records, the nation welcomed a total of 9,654,838 visitors in 2023, marking a historic. The figure represents a 38% increase over 2022 and a 33% increase compared to the previous 2019 record.
The 2023 result reveals a remarkable 17% increase in foreign air arrivals, totalling 1,719,980 visitors, compared to 1,470,244 in 2022. Sea arrivals also saw an unprecedented surge, with 7,934,858 visitors in 2023, up 43.5% from the 5,530,462 who visited by sea the previous year.
The distribution of visitors across the 16-island destination further illustrates the widespread appeal of The Bahamas. New Providence attracted 4,441,540 visitors, up 36%, compared to 2022. Grand Bahama welcomed 559,812 visitors, marking a 44% increase. The Family Islands saw an impressive 40% rise, with 4,653,486 visitors arriving by sea and air.
"The Bahamas has not only surpassed its targets but has set new benchmarks in the tourism industry. These figures are a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in our tourism sector, the irresistible charm of our islands and the friendliness of our people," said I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism.
"This record-breaking year is a clear indication of The Bahamas' position as a top-tier destination for travellers seeking unparalleled experiences. Our islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a favourite of visitors from around the world," Cooper added.
Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism, added: "As The Bahamas continues to welcome visitors with open arms, we look forward to building on this momentum. With our commitment to excellence and innovation in the tourism sector, The Bahamas is poised for even greater success in the years to come."
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