The first 10 months of 2023 have seen a substantial rise in visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands. From January to October 2023, 535,893 visitors have arrived by air and 677,943 visitors have arrived by sea for a total of about 1.2 million.
The Grand Turk Cruise Center has seen a 30.5% increase in cruise passengers and a 4.8% increase in air arrivals when compared to the same time period in 2022.
“We are very pleased to see the increased number of visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands by air and cruise for 2023. 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,” said Minister of Tourism Josephine Connolly.
“As a multi-island destination, we are also diversifying the product experience and encouraging our visitors to experience the culture, heritage and activities for day tours and/or overnight stays beyond Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos.”
The majority of arrivals are from the United States at 434,343 visitors, followed by 35,606 visitors from Canada and 8.541 visitors from the United Kingdom.
The Grand Turk Cruise Center, which is operated by Carnival Cruise Line, is a 13-acre complex on the south end of Grand Turk. It has shopping and restaurants along with the Caribbean’s largest Margaritaville. The port can accommodate up to three cruise ships at a time and it should come as no surprise that Carnival has multiple ships in port at a time.
In the coming weeks, the Grand Turk Cruise Center will see Carnival Freedom, Carnival Magic, Carnival Vista, and Mardi Gras. Sister lines to Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, have ships coming to call as well.