Bahamas overtakes Aruba in race for Canadian tourists

ORANJESTAD/NASSAU – Aruba is facing stronger competition in the Canadian tourism market after The Bahamas surpassed Aruba and several other Caribbean destinations in attracting Canadian visitors, according to a newly published international tourism report.

The report states that The Bahamas welcomed a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025. Canadian arrivals increased by more than 11% last year and by over 30% during the first quarter of 2026.

According to the analysis, the country's success is driven by expanded direct air connections, luxury tourism, longer visitor stays and a multi-island tourism strategy.

The report specifically mentions Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic as destinations now competing with a rapidly growing Bahamas for Canadian travelers. For Aruba, the findings underscore the importance of continuing to strengthen airlift, destination marketing and tourism innovation to remain competitive in one of its key international markets.