The Bahamas Records 12.5 Million Visitors

The Bahamas has reached a historic milestone, welcoming 12.5 million visitors, the highest total ever recorded in the nation’s tourism history. The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation announced the benchmark, highlighting sustained global demand and the effectiveness of its long-term tourism strategy.

Record-breaking tourism growth in 2025

Total arrivals increased by 11.4% year-over-year, surpassing the previous 2024 record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 70%. The figures underscore the resilience and expansion of The Bahamas’ tourism sector.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation I. Chester Cooper described the achievement as a defining moment for the country, emphasizing tourism’s role as a central engine of economic growth, job creation and investment across the islands.

Cruise tourism drives expansion

Cruise arrivals accounted for 86.5% of total visitors. Sea arrivals exceeded 10.6 million, marking a 14% annual increase and nearly doubling 2019 levels. Major ports, including Nassau/Paradise Island, achieved record throughput supported by upgraded infrastructure and strengthened cruise line partnerships.

Island-level performance highlights

Abaco recorded its highest visitor total ever, welcoming nearly 520,000 visitors in 2025, driven by strong sea arrivals and demand for Out Island experiences.

Grand Bahama surpassed one million arrivals for the first time in over 22 years, reaching approximately 1.1 million visitors by December. Air arrivals rose 20% year-over-year and exceeded 2019 levels by more than 30%, reflecting renewed airline confidence and expanded connectivity.

Diversification across the archipelago

Tourism growth extended beyond major gateways. Eleuthera recorded nearly 30% growth, while Bimini and the Berry Islands strengthened their cruise destination profiles. Nearly 30% of stopover visitors traveled to the Out Islands, supporting local businesses and community-based tourism.

Air connectivity and source markets

Despite global aviation constraints and weather disruptions, nearly 1.7 million foreign air visitors traveled to The Bahamas. Canada emerged as a strong-performing market, with stopover arrivals exceeding pre-pandemic levels due to expanded air service and strengthened airline partnerships.

Director General of Tourism Latia Duncombe emphasized that the record reflects the strength of Brand Bahamas and clear international positioning.

Economic and strategic significance

Stopover tourism remained robust, with over 1.8 million visitors recorded during the year. Approximately two-thirds stayed in Nassau/Paradise Island, while nearly 30% visited the Out Islands. The Bahamas also received international recognition for destination marketing, digital engagement and sustainability initiatives.

The Ministry acknowledged the collaboration of cruise operators, airlines, hotels and small tourism enterprises in achieving the milestone.

As experts at International Investment note, reaching 12.5 million visitors solidifies The Bahamas’ position as one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing tourism markets. Sustained performance will depend on continued infrastructure investment, market diversification and the balance between high-volume arrivals and long-term sustainable tourism development.