Antigua and Barbuda has delivered a historic start to 2026, recording its highest-ever tourism arrivals for the month of January, with standout growth across cruise, air, and yachting sectors.

New data shows that 197,206 cruise passengers arrived in January 2026 — the highest January figure on record — surpassing 173,266 in 2025 and marking a dramatic leap from 48,750 in 2022.

Air arrivals also reached a new milestone, climbing to 36,052 visitors, up from 34,365 in January 2025, continuing a steady upward trajectory in stay-over tourism.

Meanwhile, the yachting sector recorded 3,633 arrivals, another record for January and a sign of Antigua’s continued strength as a premier sailing destination.

Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez said the numbers reflect a strong and coordinated push across the industry.

“These figures are historic. To see record-breaking performance across cruise, air, and yachting in a single month speaks to the strength of our tourism product,” Fernandez said.

He added that the continued growth is the result of strategic investments in airlift, strengthened cruise partnerships, and sustained marketing efforts in key source markets.

The data underscores the importance of diversification within the sector. While cruise arrivals continue to drive volume, the steady increase in air passengers highlights growth in higher-value stay-over visitors, while the yachting sector maintains its niche but lucrative contribution.

With the year now off to a record-setting start, officials are optimistic that 2026 could become one of the strongest tourism years in Antigua and Barbuda’s history.

Fernandez emphasized that the focus now is on maintaining momentum and ensuring widespread economic benefits.

“Our goal is not just growth, but sustainable growth that benefits all Antiguans and Barbudans,” he said.

The record January performance sets a powerful tone for the months ahead, as Antigua and Barbuda continues to solidify its position as one of the Caribbean’s leading tourism destinations.