Caribbean tourism hits 35 million as cruise traffic swells

The region drew record arrivals in 2025, a third straight year above pre-pandemic levels, though its source markets diverged sharply.

Stay-over arrivals reached 35 million, up 2.5%, and cruise visits 35.5 million, up 5.2% and well above 2019, the Caribbean Tourism Organization reported. The Bahamas alone logged a record 10.7 million cruise visits.

US arrivals edged up 0.5% and South America surged 23.7%, while Canada fell 5.3% and Europe 3.3%. Occupancy slipped to 63.7% even as the average daily rate rose to US$350, a picture of growth with thinning margins.