BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson has welcomed the record number of people visiting St. Kitts-Nevis for the Christmas and Carnival seasons saying “this growth reflects the resilience and allure of St. Kitts and Nevis as a leading Caribbean destination.
Cruise ships at the port in St. Kitts-Nevis“Visitors and returning nationals are drawn to our unique combination of cultural celebrations, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. We are excited to share this special time with so many travellers during the Christmas and Carnival season,” she added.
Official figures released here show that for the period December 14 to 25, the twin-island Federation welcomed a total of 8,335 airline passengers aboard 265 flights, making it the highest number of passengers recorded for this period in recent years.
The 2024 figures show significant growth compared to the same period in previous years, highlighting a steady recovery and surge in interest in St. Kitts and Nevis as a top-tier holiday destination.
This year’s air arrivals surpassed the 7,492 recorded in 2023 and the 6,334 arrivals in 2022 and also reflect significant progress from the 2,937 passengers recorded in 2021.
Tourism officials say the 2024 total exceeds pre-pandemic numbers recorded in 2017, which saw 7,813 passengers, and 2018 and 2019, which recorded 7,773 and 8,069 passengers respectively.
“This growth signals a resurgence of interest and confidence in St. Kitts and Nevis as a premier travel destination during the holiday season,” they said, noting that the Christmas Season, coupled with the highly anticipated Sugar Mas Carnival, has been a major attraction for visitors, featuring vibrant street parades, calypso and pageant competitions, and traditional folklore performances.
Henderson said that the islands remain ready to welcome even more visitors and provide unforgettable experiences, noting that last Thursday, six cruise ships docked here, bringing a total of 11,334 passengers.
She said the “remarkable visitor numbers are a testament to the growing appeal of St. Kitts as a leading Caribbean destination. The combined excitement of the Christmas and Carnival celebrations provides a unique opportunity to showcase our culture, hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes.”
The Ministry of Tourism said the influx of visitors also presents significant economic opportunities for the island with vendors, taxi operators, and tour guides benefitting as a result.
In addition to the cruise ship passengers, St. Kitts is experiencing high hotel occupancy rates and a significant number of returning nationals, all contributing to the vibrant holiday and Carnival celebrations, the ministry added.
