Tourism in Curaçao continues to thrive with an impressive 15% year-on-year increase in arrivals in November 2024. This means an additional 7,587 visitors, bringing the total for the month to 59,771. This strong performance marks the start of the 2024/2025 winter season, where the island stands out as a key destination for travelers.
Analysis of arrivals: an overview of key markets
The Netherlands: a major market
In November 2024, Curaçao welcomed 20,993 Dutch visitors, representing a 15% increase on November 2023. This trend is particularly noteworthy, as the Netherlands is the main source market for the island. Almost 59% of Dutch visitors chose non-resort accommodation, while 41% opted for beach resorts. The average length of stay for these visitors was 11.5 nights, indicating a strong interest in the island and its many attractions.
Dutch visitors particularly appreciate the cultural and gastronomic experiences Curaçao has to offer. Events such as the Curaçao Carnival attract many tourists, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere on the island. What’s more, the geographical proximity between the Netherlands and the island facilitates travel, making the island easily accessible for the Dutch.
The United States: remarkable growth
The U.S. market continues to be essential for Curaçao with a significant 31% increase in arrivals. In November 2024, 14,660 American visitors came to the island, compared with 11,208 in November of the previous year. Of these, 69% stayed in luxury hotels, while 31% chose other types of accommodation. The average length of stay for American visitors was 5.9 nights, with a large number of arrivals from New York, Florida, New Jersey, Texas and Georgia.
Americans are attracted by the island’s beautiful beaches, water sports and tropical warmth. Curaçao is also known for its cultural diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere, attracting travelers in search of unique experiences. Events such as the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival and other international music festivals are also big draws for American visitors.
Canada: a slight decline
Canadian arrivals fell slightly, totaling 3,881 visitors in November 2024, down 2% on November 2023. Canada ranks as the third-largest source market in terms of absolute numbers, welcoming more visitors than Colombia (3,562) and Brazil (3,193). Canadian visitors spent an average of 8.1 nights on the island, with 63% choosing resort-type accommodations.
Despite this slight decline, Canada remains an important market for the island. Canadians are often drawn to winter getaways, seeking to escape the cold and enjoy the Caribbean sun. Seasonal promotions and special packages are effective strategies for attracting Canadians to Curaçao.
Peak arrival days
An interesting trend observed in November 2024 is that Fridays and Saturdays have become the busiest days for air arrivals. This suggests that many travelers are choosing to start their weekend getaway in Curacao, contributing to the strong increase in arrivals during this month.
Airlines have also adapted their schedules to meet this increased demand, offering more direct flights to the island at weekends. This makes access to Curacao even easier for travelers from major markets.
Highlights of tourism 2024
Curaçao’s tourism industry demonstrated remarkable growth and stability in 2024, thanks to strategic efforts to maintain visibility in key markets. These initiatives have helped position Curaçao as a must-see destination where travelers can “feel it for themselves”.
From January to November 2024, the island welcomed 626,592 stayover arrivals, 28,332 day visitors and 706,077 cruise passengers, for a total of 1,361,001 tourist arrivals.
This represents a magnificent 20% increase over the same period in 2023. Curaçao’s strong performance highlights its ongoing commitment to attracting visitors and offering exceptional experiences in its key markets.
Marketing efforts, such as targeted advertising on social networks and partnerships with influencers, also played a key role in increasing tourist arrivals. Campaigns highlighting the island’s natural beauty, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters particularly resonated with consumers.
The economic impact of tourism
Tourism on Curaçao is about more than just arrivals. The economic impact is considerable, generating jobs and supporting many local businesses. Hotels, restaurants and shops benefit directly from the influx of tourists.
In addition, the increase in arrivals has a positive effect on the local economy, encouraging the development of infrastructure and services. Initiatives to promote sustainable development and responsible tourism are also in place to preserve the island’s natural environment while welcoming visitors.
Curaçao, a seductive destination!
All in all, tourism on Curaçao is on an upward trajectory, and the November 2024 arrivals figures bear this out. With strong growth in the Dutch and American markets, and an effective marketing strategy, the island continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
Don’t hesitate to visit the island to enjoy its beautiful landscapes, sunny beaches and rich culture. With the winter season just around the corner, it’s time to experience what this unique destination has to offer!
