BARBADOS — The Caribbean tourism sector maintained its upward momentum in 2024, welcoming an estimated 34.2 million international visitors – a 6.1% increase over 2023 and 6.9% ahead of pre-pandemic levels, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

The figures, released in the CTO’s Caribbean Tourism Performance Review 2024, reflect the region’s strong recovery and growing appeal across multiple source markets. For the second consecutive year, the Caribbean outperformed its 2019 tourism benchmark.

“The Caribbean’s continued growth is a testament to the strength of our regional collaboration and the enduring appeal of our destinations,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

TOP PERFORMERS & SOURCE MARKETS

Among the destinations leading the charge, the Dominican Republic remained the most visited in 2024 with 8.5 million arrivals. It was followed by Jamaica (2.9 million), Cuba (2.2 million), The Bahamas (1.9 million), Aruba (1.4 million) and Puerto Rico (1.0 million). Combined, these destinations accounted for over half (56%) of all regional arrivals.

Growth was not just limited to the traditional heavyweights. Several emerging destinations posted double-digit gains. Montserrat recorded the highest year-over-year increase at 29.4%, followed by St. Vincent & the Grenadines (27.2%), Belize (22.8%) and Curaçao (20.3%).

Curaçao also emerged as the region’s top performer compared to 2019, with visitor numbers up 51.1%. St. Maarten and the U.S. Virgin Islands followed closely with increases of 48% and 41.8%, respectively.

The United States remained the top source market, contributing approximately 16.8 million visitors – up 3.5% over 2023 and 7.9% above pre-pandemic levels. Canadian arrivals rose by 4.0% to reach 3.3 million, showing continued recovery, though still slightly below 2019 figures. European arrivals grew modestly by 1.4% to 5.3 million.

Intra-Caribbean travel also improved, with residents taking an estimated 1.6 million tourist trips within the region – a 5.1% increase over the previous year. The South American market saw the most robust growth, with arrivals reaching 2.0 million, up 17.8% over 2023 and 19.7% ahead of 2019 levels.

CRUISE & HOTEL RECOVERY

The Caribbean cruise industry experienced a significant resurgence in 2024, with 33.7 million cruise visits – up 10.3% over 2023 and 10.9% above pre-pandemic levels.

On land, hotels continued their recovery with occupancy rates averaging 66.6%, a slight increase from the previous year. The average daily rate (ADR) rose by 4.2% to US$437.02, reflecting sustained demand for Caribbean accommodations.

LOOKING AHEAD

While the outlook for 2025 remains positive, the CTO is forecasting a more moderate pace of growth due to economic uncertainties and a slowdown in key source markets during the first quarter. Overnight visitor arrivals are expected to increase by 2% to 5%, potentially reaching 35 million. Cruise tourism is projected to grow by 5% to 7%, approaching 36 million visits.

“Despite geopolitical uncertainty and global economic challenges, our sector has shown remarkable resilience,” said Regis-Prosper. “To maintain this momentum, we must double down on strategic investments, innovative partnerships, and sustainable practices that protect our people, our culture and our environment. The future of Caribbean tourism is not only bright – it is ours to shape.”