Antigua and Barbuda Records Strongest First Quarter for Tourism Arrivals

Antigua and Barbuda has recorded a 7 percent increase in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2026, with tourism officials describing the performance as one of the strongest starts ever for the country’s tourism sector.

Fresh figures released during the Caribbean Travel Marketplace show the twin-island nation welcomed 110,832 visitors between January and March, with each month setting new arrival records.

Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin James, said the country had “a phenomenal year so far,” pointing to strong growth from the United States market and increased visitor interest from Europe.

According to James, arrivals accelerated steadily throughout the quarter, moving from 5 percent growth in January to 8 percent growth by March, with March recording the highest monthly visitor total in the country’s history.

Tourism officials also highlighted efforts to expand Antigua and Barbuda’s appeal beyond traditional leisure travel by targeting the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions market.

“This conference here is as a result of our targeting the MICE market,” James said, while noting that several international and regional events are currently being hosted on the island.

The government is also banking on expanded airlift and cruise tourism to sustain the momentum. Officials revealed that cruise arrivals are projected to increase by approximately 22 percent this year, supported by expanded home-porting operations and a US$30 million cruise terminal upgrade.

Luxury tourism development also remains a key focus, with projects including Nobu, Nikki Beach and Marriott-branded properties either under construction or in the planning stages as the country positions itself toward attracting higher-spending visitors rather than mass tourism.

Officials further noted that Antigua and Barbuda continues to market itself as a safe and stable destination amid geopolitical tensions affecting parts of the Middle East and other traditional long-haul markets.

However, James acknowledged that global oil prices and rising operational costs continue to place pressure on the tourism industry and workers across the sector.