The Bahamas has recorded a historic 12.5 million visitors, the highest total ever for the country’s tourism industry, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

Officials said the milestone reflects strong global demand and continued growth across multiple visitor markets, positioning the country among the world’s leading tourism destinations.

Visitor arrivals increased 11.4 per cent year-over-year, surpassing 2024’s previous record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 70 per cent.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, Chester Cooper, described the achievement as a major national milestone.

“Reaching 12.5 million visitors is a defining achievement for The Bahamas and a clear signal of confidence in our destination, our leadership, and our tourism strategy,” Cooper said. 

“Tourism continues to be a powerful engine of economic growth, delivering jobs, investment, and opportunity for Bahamians across our islands. While we are proud of this performance, our focus remains on sustaining growth responsibly and ensuring that the benefits of tourism continue to strengthen communities throughout the country.”

Cruise tourism remained the largest contributor to visitor growth, accounting for 86.5 per cent of total arrivals. Sea arrivals surpassed 10.6 million visitors, representing a 14 per cent increase compared to 2024 and nearly double 2019 levels. 

Officials said major ports, including Nassau and Paradise Island, recorded strong passenger numbers supported by expanded cruise infrastructure and strengthened partnerships with cruise lines.

Several islands also recorded notable growth. 

Abaco welcomed nearly 520,000 visitors in 2025, marking the highest visitor total on record for the island. The increase was largely driven by sea arrivals and continued demand for Out Island tourism experiences.

Grand Bahama also experienced a strong tourism rebound, with total arrivals surpassing 1 million visitors for the first time in more than 22 years. The island recorded approximately 1.1 million visitors through December 2025, supported by expanded airlift and increased airline confidence. Air arrivals to Grand Bahama rose 20 per cent compared to 2024 and exceeded 2019 levels by more than 30 per cent.

Tourism expansion also continued across the Family Islands. Eleuthera recorded nearly 30 per cent growth, while Bimini and the Berry Islands strengthened their roles as cruise destinations. 

Nearly 30 per cent of stopover visitors travelled to the Out Islands, supporting community-based tourism and local businesses.

Air arrivals overall remained steady despite global aviation challenges and weather disruptions. 

Nearly 1.7 million foreign air visitors travelled to The Bahamas, with Canada emerging as a key growth market following expanded airline service.

Director General of Tourism, Latia Duncombe, said the record performance highlights the country’s strong international tourism appeal.

“Welcoming 12.5 million visitors speaks to the strength of Brand Bahamas and the clarity of our market positioning,” Duncombe said. “Demand is being driven by our island offerings, strong performance across multiple travel segments, and a destination that consistently meets the expectations of today’s global traveller. This momentum reflects how effectively The Bahamas is engaging international markets while building long-term competitiveness for the future.”

Stopover tourism also remained strong, with more than 1.8 million stopover visitors recorded during the year. 

Approximately two-thirds stayed in Nassau and Paradise Island, while nearly 30 per cent travelled to the Out Islands.

The Ministry said the country also received international recognition for destination marketing, digital engagement and sustainability efforts. 

Officials credited continued collaboration between tourism stakeholders, cruise and airline partners, hotel operators and small tourism enterprises for the industry’s success.

Authorities said the focus remains on strengthening tourism infrastructure, diversifying visitor markets and ensuring continued economic benefits for Bahamians as the country builds on consecutive record-breaking tourism years.