Antigua and Barbuda is turning its sights toward an increased number of Canadian tourists, aiming to attract more cruise ships and luxury clientele. During a vibrant event held on August 12 at the upscale Lavelle in downtown Toronto, approximately 50 travel advisors were treated to an immersive experience celebrating Caribbean culture, cuisine, and hospitality.
The event featured prominent figures including Charles “Max” Fernandez, the Minister of Tourism, and Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. Tameka Wharton, Director of Tourism, and her team from the new Toronto office were also in attendance, highlighting the strategic efforts to engage the Canadian travel market.
Fernandez’s debut visit to Canada was marked by optimism, noting that visitor numbers for 2024 surpassed pre-pandemic records and projections for 2025 look promising.
Despite being only one-tenth the size of Prince Edward Island, Antigua (airport code ANU) stands out with its rich heritage, diverse attractions, and vibrant music scene.
The island is increasingly becoming a hub for cruise tourism, with 570 cruise calls recorded last year, a significant rise from 446 the previous year. Antigua is now implementing home port calls, allowing passengers to both start and conclude their cruises on the island. Fernandez emphasized that with 365 stunning beaches, overcrowding is not a concern. New water taxi services are being introduced as alternatives to traditional transport for cruise passengers.
The tourism strategy aims to align the islands with high-end markets while maintaining a balance between welcoming travelers and respecting local communities to avoid over-tourism. Antigua proudly leads in environmental initiatives, being the first Caribbean nation to outlaw single-use plastics and Styrofoam.
Focus is also shifting to sister island Barbuda, which is slightly smaller than Antigua and recently enhanced its accessibility with the opening of a new airport (code BBQ) catering to smaller aircraft, including private jets. Barbuda is being positioned as a luxurious alternative to Antigua, with James comparing it to the exclusive St. Barts, ideal for visitors seeking a tranquil escape.
Both tourism leaders shared their favorite spots on the island: Minister Fernandez enjoys the historical significance of Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while James appreciates the social atmosphere at Shirley Heights, famous for its vibrant sunset parties where tourists and locals converge.
To explore more about what Antigua and Barbuda have to offer, visit their official website at visitantiguabarbuda.com.
