TORONTO — The Turks and Caicos Islands is having a stellar year, welcoming over a million visitors by air and cruise.

From January to October 2023, the destination saw 535,893 visitors arrive by air and 677,943 via cruise.

he air arrivals for January to October 2023 represent a 4.8% increase over 2022, which saw 511,132 air arrivals in the same period. The air arrivals also represent an 18% increase over the 2019 figure of 450,443 arrivals for the same period. The cruise arrivals of 677,943 mark a 30.5 percent increase over the period in 2022 which saw 519,418 cruise passengers.  

The United States market remains the leading source market with 434,343 arrivals from January to October. There were 35,606 arrivals from Canada. There were 8,541 arrivals from the United Kingdom, versus 2022 for the same period January to August 2023. The addition of Virgin Atlantic Airways, from London, Heathrow, increases the ease of travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands from the UK and Europe, with twice weekly, non-stop flights.    

“We are very pleased to see the increased number of visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands by air and cruise for 2023,” said Minister of Tourism Josephine Connolly. “The Turks and Caicos Islands is renowned for its pristine turquoise waters and white sand beaches, world-class resorts and villas, culinary diversity, cultural experiences and natural beauty, ‘Beauty By Nature.’ The increased visitation demonstrates the Turks and Caicos Islands’ appeal for barefoot luxury and unique experiences.”

The Minister also noted that the destination is diversifying the product experience and “encouraging our visitors to experience the culture, heritage and activities for day tours and/or overnight stay beyond Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos.”