Tourism in the Caribbean is a central pillar of the regional economy, representing a vital engine for the islands. In 2024 and 2025, several key trends emerge through striking figures, revealing the resilience of the sector, but also the challenges it must overcome. At RichèsKarayib, we have selected five recent, verified data that illustrate the dynamics of tourism in the Caribbean, from growth opportunities to environmental issues.
42,765 - Aircraft movements on Saint-Barthélemy in 2024
In 2024, Saint-Barthélemy’s Rémy-de-Haenen airport recorded a total of 42,765 aircraft movements, up 3.6% on 2023. This continued growth testifies to the attractiveness of tourism in the Caribbean and the vitality of air traffic to this popular destination. The Winair airline carried 95,000 passengers to the island, with a record 12,000 passengers in December 2024, reinforcing Saint-Barthélemy’s importance in the sector.
84% - Cruise tourism in the Bahamas in 2024
The Bahamas welcomed 11.22 million visitors in 2024, 84% of whom were cruise passengers, totalling around 9.4 million. This sector accounts for a large share of tourism in the Caribbean, and the cruise industry plays a major role in the local economy. In the first quarter of 2025, the archipelago welcomed 3.3 million visitors, marking a 9% increase on 2024. This success demonstrates the continued growth of the cruise business.
2.6% - Impact of CO₂ emissions from air transport in the Caribbean
Air transport is essential to the development of tourism in the Caribbean, but it remains a major contributor to global CO₂ emissions, accounting for around 2.6% of the sector’s emissions. Aviation is essential for international connections, making the region heavily dependent on this polluting industry. To ensure the sector’s sustainability, environmental impact requires particular attention.
16 times - Saint Lucia, the most awarded honeymoon destination
Saint Lucia continues to distinguish itself by winning the title of “World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” for the 16th time since 1998. This success makes tourism in the romantic Caribbean a key sector of the island’s economy, which remains a favorite spot for couples seeking an idyllic getaway. In 2025, Saint Lucia is once again in the running for this title, confirming its continuing appeal.
4.3% - Increase in hotel occupancy in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Caribbean tourism in the US Virgin Islands recorded a 4.3% increase in hotel occupancy in the first quarter of 2025. This development testifies to the continued growth of the local tourism sector, even after the challenges posed by the global economic crises. Diversification of the offering, with the emergence of medical tourism, is also starting to gain momentum, although data for 2025 is still sketchy.
A Caribbean between environmental challenges and tourism opportunities
Tourism in the Caribbean is at a turning point, with opportunities for growth but also challenges to be met. Increasing air and sea flows highlight the strategic importance of this industry for the region. However, environmental issues, notably transport-related CO₂ emissions, remain a matter of concern.
At the same time, destinations such as Saint Lucia and the Bahamas continue to stand out, proving that tourism in the Caribbean can be both an economic driver and a sector with high sustainability potential. The current dynamic remains a promise of development, while calling for responsible and balanced management to preserve the region’s natural and cultural treasures.
