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SAINT LUCIA RECORDS INCREASE IN VISITOR ARRIVALS ACROSS ALL SECTORS IN 2024
2024 saw continued positive growth in tourism with stayover arrivals up 14% at over 435,000 visitors. The destination experienced increases in all sectors, with cruise ship calls up 18% and yachting figures up 7% compared to 2023.
The UK market closed 2024 with December figures up 11% year on year. Overall, UK visitor numbers were up by 4%. The largest market for Saint Lucia is the US at just over half of the share of visitors and with an increase of 20% on last year’s total. The UK is the second market in volume at around 20% of the total stayovers but Brits stay the longest with an average duration of 10 nights. The Caribbean region is in the top three and saw a growth of 17% in 2024.
Traditionally a winter sun choice, the SLTA has been working to position the island as a year-round destination with a thriving events programme helping to boost summer visits. Visitor numbers are consistent for each month.
Patricia Charlery-Leon, SLTA Director for UK & Europe said “It’s been another challenging year economically for the UK but we know how important holidays are. Working closely with our partners, we are so delighted with the increase as it shows confidence in the product and importantly, the overall experience for visitors. We are consistently given feedback that it’s the warm welcome along with the rich range of experiences that make a holiday in Saint Lucia special.”
2025 sees the return of the hugely successful Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival in May and Lucian Carnival in July. October is another key month as the island celebrates its heritage and culture, coinciding with family half-term breaks. The UK and Ireland trade engagement programme continues with Saint Lucia Expert (SLEx), agent webinars, dedicated events and a range of fam trips covering adventure, luxury and romance. The SLTA’s Showcase week runs from 15th September 2025.
There are also significant plans to further support the local community with new tours and experiences launching later this year through SLTA’s sister organisation, the Community Tourism Agency.
UK airlift remains strong with a year-round daily flight from London Gatwick from British Airways and commitment to an annual winter service from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic.
Image Credit: © Saint Lucia Tourism Authority
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