Stay-over tourism numbers soar
(CNS Business): The Cayman Islands continue the record-breaking trend into 2015 when it comes to stay-over guests on the islands. In what tourism officials are expecting to be the best year yet, so far the islands have welcomed a total of 70,164 people in air arrivals for the month of January and February combined. A 7.6 per cent increase when compared to the same two months this time last year.
Tourism Minister Moses Kirkconnell said, ““These results are even more significant when you consider that January and February 2014 were the highest for any January or February on record. The Cayman Islands is regarded as a premier destination of choice, which is evidenced not just by our growing numbers but by the accolades we have received in 2014.”
He added, “This speaks to the efforts made by the DoT and our tourism partners to distinguish ourselves in ways that are welcoming and wholly satisfying to the visitor experience.”
Director of Tourism Rosa Harris added, “The growth in arrival figures is an encouraging kick start to 2015 and highlights the proactive steps that have been taken such as working closely with industry partners on robust marketing plans, are certainly paying dividends.” She explained, “Clearly, the message about the Cayman Islands being a sought after destination for families, couples, divers, food enthusiasts, and weddings as well as those simply seeking sun, sea and sand, is reaching our intended target market.”
While a total of 344, 828 cruise passengers visited our shores in the same time period, the Department of Tourism is forecasting over 1.7 million passengers by the end of the year.
Cruise passenger arrivals for the month of January showed a 7% growth over the number of passengers Grand Cayman greeted last year. However, the month of February took a hit when six cruise ships had to keep sailing past the Cayman Islands due to bad weather. This led to a slight decline in cruise arrivals by 3.64 percent or 13,022 passengers when compared to February 2014. Although, Minister Kirkconnell told CNS Business he is confident the tourism industry can make up that loss throughout the year.
Councillor in the Ministry of Tourism, Joseph Hew said, “The accomplishments seen thus far in 2015 are simply fantastic. Each year the Cayman Islands continue to attract visitors who are seeking our Caymankind experience that can be found “Only in Cayman.” He stated, “These wonderful experiences lead to happy visitors and help us to see our reputation growing as the leading luxury Caribbean destination year over year.”
Category: Cruise Tourism, Featured, Stay-over tourism, Tourism
