The Bahamas has recorded its strongest tourism year ever, welcoming a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025. The figure marks the highest total in the country’s history and reflects growing confidence in the destination’s appeal.
Visitor numbers rose by 11.4 percent compared to 2024, breaking the previous record. Arrivals also surpassed pre-pandemic levels from 2019 by more than 70 percent, highlighting a full and powerful recovery.
Tourism officials say the milestone confirms the long-term strength of the country’s travel strategy. It also signals that global demand for Caribbean destinations continues to rise.
Cruise Tourism Fuels Growth Across the Islands
Cruising remained the main engine behind the surge, accounting for more than 86 percent of all visitors. Sea arrivals alone topped 10.6 million guests, nearly double the levels seen before the pandemic.
Officials credit expanded cruise schedules, upgraded port infrastructure, and stronger cruise line partnerships. Major ports in Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Out Islands all reported record passenger volumes.
Cruise activity has played a major role in spreading economic benefits beyond the main hubs. More visitors are reaching smaller islands, helping local businesses and communities grow.
The strong performance mirrors trends seen at other major U.S. cruise ports, including New Orleans, where passenger volumes have also crossed the one-million mark again as demand continues to surge.
Island Highlights and Strong Stopover Demand
Several islands stood out during the year with impressive gains. Abaco welcomed nearly 520,000 visitors, its highest total ever, driven largely by cruise arrivals.
Grand Bahama crossed the one-million-visitor mark for the first time in over two decades. Bimini and the Berry Islands also continued to strengthen their positions as popular cruise stops.
Stopover tourism remained healthy, with more than 1.8 million overnight visitors recorded. Around two-thirds stayed in Nassau and Paradise Island, while nearly 30 percent explored the Out Islands.
Tourism leaders say the numbers reflect strong brand positioning and clear market direction. With continued cruise growth and expanding airlift, The Bahamas appears well positioned for another strong year ahead.
