The jump in the number of cruise passengers and the expansion of accommodations also portend a tourism boom for the island.
Curaçao's tourism industry is about to make history. According to it Curacao Tourist Board (CTB), the island will welcome more than half a million visitors for the first time this year. The increase in tourist numbers is supported by growth in aviation capacity and the hotel sector, which together put the island on the map as an increasingly popular destination.
In the first nine months of 2023, Curaçao welcomed 191 cruise ships, a modest increase of 2% compared to last year. But what is really remarkable is the jump in passenger numbers: almost half a million people boarded, an impressive increase of 56% compared to the same period in 2022. This corresponds to an occupancy rate of around 85%, a positive trend that started at the beginning of this year.
The increase is not only due to the growing number of cruise ships. There is also a strong increase in aviation capacity, with an expected increase of 22% by 2024. That translates to more than 1,2 million available aircraft seats, a factor that could further boost the influx of tourists.
In addition to the increase in transportation, the accommodation sector is also expanding. Curaçao currently offers 8.500 rooms, and this number is expected to grow by another 4.500 by 2026. Several investors have already announced plans to expand the existing offering.
To strengthen ties with travel agents, CTB organized a unique event in Amsterdam, in collaboration with 12 local hotels. In restaurant Mondi West, founded by renowned chef Justin Niessen from Curaçao, guests were given a tour through the world of Curaçao hospitality. Dinner featured local specialties, and the evening concluded with a raffle, with prizes ranging from reusable bottles to holiday packages.
Involved partners such as Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort, Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, Courtyard by Marriott, and Acoya Curaçao Resort, to name just a few, contributed to the success of the event. They gave presentations to inform travel agents about their various facilities and services, so that they in turn can better advise their customers.
Charlotte
American Airlines has decided to offer additional flights from Charlotte during the traditionally quieter months of April and May next year, 2024. The added airline services come as a result of increasing demand from the United States, creating more exciting opportunities for tourism and strengthen ties between the two destinations in 2024. Earlier this year, American Airlines already unveiled its plans to increase flight frequency from Charlotte from once a week to daily flights in the upcoming winter season, starting from December 2023 until the end of March 2024.
During a meeting with American Airlines, they shared the encouraging news that ticket reservations for the upcoming winter season are looking very positive. As a result of this trend, American Airlines has decided to continue offering additional flights during the quieter months of April and May in 2024. Normally, airline service would return to once a week during these months. But due to huge demand from the United States, American Airlines will offer four flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout April and May next year. The additional flights are already available in the airline's reservation system. The expansion of airline services offers travelers flexibility when planning their trips to and from Curaçao.
The Minister of Economic Development, Mr. Ruisandro Cijntje, expressed his satisfaction with the expansion, saying: “We are pleased with the expansion of airline services from Charlotte with American Airlines. This announcement is the direct result of the Curacao Tourism Board's continued efforts, along with local stakeholders, to promote our beautiful Curacao in the United States. We look forward to welcoming more American tourists who come to discover our cultural heritage, beautiful beaches and our unparalleled hospitality.” The CTB expects strong continued growth from the American market in 2024 and is excited to welcome 165.000 American tourists next year.
