The Bahamas breaks tourism records with 9.65+M arrivals in 2023

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is reporting record-breaking visitor arrivals for 2023, exceeding forecasted projections.

Surpassing all previous records, the nation welcomed a total of 9,654,838 visitors in 2023, marking an "historic milestone" in its journey as a global tourism destination, the ministry said in a news release. 

This figure represents a 38 per cent increase over 2022 and a 33 per cent increase compared to the previous 2019 record.

The 2023 result reveals a 17 per cent percent increase in foreign air arrivals, totaling 1,719,980 visitors, compared to 1,470,244 in 2022. 

READ MORE: The Bahamas addresses travel warnings, says destination “remains safe”

Sea arrivals also saw an unprecedented surge, with 7,934,858 visitors in 2023, up 43.5% percent from the 5,530,462 who visited by sea the previous year.

The distribution of visitors across the16-island destinations further illustrates widespread interest in The Bahamas.

• New Providence attracted 4,441,540 visitors, up 36 per cent, compared to 2022.
• Grand Bahama welcomed 559,812 visitors, marking a 44 per cent increase.
• The Family Islands saw an impressive 40 per cent 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," said the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, in a statement. “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." 

New Providence, Grand Bahama, and the Family Islands have all experienced growth, showcasing the diverse attractions and experiences available to tourists.

"This record-breaking year is a clear indication of The Bahamas' position as a top-tier destination for travelers seeking unparalleled experiences. Our islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a favorite of visitors from around the world," Cooper said.

Mrs. 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.”

Safety in The Bahamas

The good news is a change in tone for The Bahamas, which, last month, was subject to a string of negative headlines after travel warnings were placed on the destination amid a violent wave of crime.

In a Jan. 30 statement, the Bahamian government issued a statement, saying it was "alert, attentive, and proactive to ensure that The Bahamas remains a safe and welcoming destination."

Canada issued its own advisory for the Bahamas on Jan. 29, warning travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution" due to high crime rates, especially in the cities of Nassau (on the island of New Providence) and Freeport (on the island Grand Bahama). As of Feb. 23, the warning was still active on Canada's travel advisory page. 

“The safety and security of everyone is of paramount importance to us and we are confident that The Bahamas will remain safe and welcoming for millions of visitors to continue to enjoy the magic and beauty of our beautiful islands," the Bahamian government said last month. 

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