Saint Lucia’s tourism sector has started 2026 on a strong note, recording a marked increase in stay-over arrivals for January compared to the previous two year.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) reported that the island welcomed 37,691 stay-over visitors in January 2026. 

This represents a four per cent increase over January 2025 and a two per cent rise compared to January 2024.

According to the SLTA, this marks the highest January on record for the destination.

The United States market continued to drive growth, accounting for 22,699 stay-over visitors — an 11 per cent increase year-over-year. 

The Authority noted that this performance came despite significant snowstorms and airspace disruptions across key US gateways during the month.

Canada also recorded strong growth, welcoming 4,400 visitors — an 8.5 per cent increase compared to January 2025.

Within the European market, Italy led expansion with a 64 per cent increase in visitor arrivals, while arrivals from France grew by 20 per cent. However, the United Kingdom market declined by 19.7 per cent, reflecting ongoing economic pressures and airlift challenges.

Regionally, the Caribbean market recorded a marginal 1.2 per cent decline, while arrivals from South America rose by three per cent.

Saint Lucia’s cruise sector also delivered robust performance in January. The island welcomed 150,323 cruise passengers, representing a 10.8 per cent increase over January 2025, supported by three additional port calls during the month. The SLTA said the figures underscore the island’s continued strength as a leading cruise destination in the Caribbean.

Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire said the results reflect strategic planning and investment.

“January’s performance is a testament to the resilience of our people, the strength of our tourism partnerships, and the strategic direction we have pursued as a destination. These results are not accidental; they reflect deliberate investment in airlift, community tourism, sustainability, and brand positioning. Most importantly, they demonstrate that Saint Lucia remains one of the Caribbean’s most desirable and competitive destinations,” Hilaire said.

Commenting on the UK market’s decline, SLTA Chief Executive Officer Louis Lewis said efforts are underway to improve connectivity.

“While the UK market continues to face economic headwinds and airlift challenges, we remain actively engaged in strategic conversations with our airline partners to secure improved airlift out of the UK in the near future. The United Kingdom remains a critically important source market for Saint Lucia, and we are committed to strengthening connectivity and rebuilding momentum,” Lewis said.

He added that a recent meeting was convened with the Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association to discuss strategies to strengthen support for the UK market.