Bahamian tourism officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, posed with a Junkanoo dancer during an earlier visit to Canada. (Photo Credit: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism)
The Bahamas is experiencing a major rise in Canadian visitors this year, with tourism officials reporting a 75 per cent increase compared to 2024. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Aviation, Chester Cooper, confirmed the numbers during a visit to Canada ahead of a planned tourism promotion tour.
Cooper said the strong growth in Canadian tourism has brought new energy to the country’s travel industry. “We see the growth in Canadian arrivals in excess of 75 percent year-over-year,” he said. “We’re focused on strategy, and we’re bringing new airlift. We will continue to conduct these missions and tell the world that it’s still better in The Bahamas. We’re pressing forward.”
A Shift in Travel Trends
Canadians have increasingly turned to the Bahamas and other international destinations while travelling less to the United States. This shift has benefited many Caribbean countries, including the Bahamas, which has seen a decline in American visitors. Typically, travellers from the U.S. make up about 90 per cent of the Bahamas’ tourist base, but the recent rise in Canadian arrivals has helped balance the numbers.
Cooper explained that while there has been a slight drop in stopover visits from Americans, overall tourism remains strong. “Quarter one of 2026 is looking strong. Fourth quarter is looking good relative to last year,” he said. “We’ve seen some dips in stopover business, driven mainly by the fall-off in consumer confidence in our major source market, USA, as well as other geopolitical issues. We’re tracking slightly behind last year, which was a record-setting year in terms of stopovers, but suffice to say we are 10 percent ahead roughly in overall arrivals.”
Promoting Longer Stays and Local Culture
The Bahamian government is not just focusing on bringing more visitors but also on encouraging them to stay longer and experience the country’s heritage. “The number of things there is to see and do, we’re working with the Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation to bolster heritage tourism, regattas, festivals,” Cooper said. “It works together, all as a whole. And that’s why we say tourism is everybody’s business. We all have a role to play.”
This cultural approach aims to attract travellers who want more than beaches. The government hopes to highlight the country’s diverse islands, vibrant traditions, and historic sites, giving visitors a richer and more authentic experience.
Strengthening Connections with Canada
As part of its tourism mission, the Bahamian delegation visited Halifax, Ottawa, and Calgary to promote the country’s 16 islands. The events featured traditional Bahamian music, dance, and colourful junkanoo performances. Officials also shared news of new direct flights from Canada and updates on upcoming resort openings.
Cooper and his team believe that better air connections and targeted promotion will keep Canadian visitor numbers growing well into next year. With strong demand and new travel routes, the Bahamas is ready to welcome even more Canadian travellers seeking sunshine, culture, and a warm island escape.
