The Bahamas welcomed a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025, the highest total ever recorded, according to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation’s recent press release.

Visitor arrivals grew 11.4 percent year-over-year, surpassing 2024’s record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 70 percent.

Cruise tourism remained the primary driver of growth, accounting for 86.5 percent of total arrivals. Sea arrivals exceeded 10.6 million visitors, representing a 14 percent increase year-over-year and nearly double 2019 levels.

“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,” said I. Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation.

“Tourism continues to be a powerful engine of economic growth, delivering jobs, investment and opportunity for Bahamians across our islands.”

Major ports recorded record throughput, with continued gains across Nassau, Paradise Island and the Out Islands, supported by new cruise infrastructure and enhanced partnerships with cruise lines.

Several islands delivered standout performances. Abaco welcomed just south of 520,000 visitors in 2025, its highest total on record, driven by record-breaking sea arrivals.

Grand Bahama’s total arrivals surpassed one million for the first time in more than 22 years, reaching approximately 1.1 million through December.

Bimini and the Berry Islands continued to expand their roles as cruise destinations.

“Welcoming 12.5 million visitors speaks to the strength of Brand Bahamas and the clarity of our market positioning,” said Latia Duncombe, director general of tourism.

Stopover tourism recorded over 1.8 million visitors during the year. Approximately two-thirds stayed in Nassau and Paradise Island, while nearly 30 percent traveled to the Out Islands.