Following strong double-digit growth in summer 2018 the Cayman Islands outperformed that period this year through August 2019. The strong incremental success of the first half of the year, the Cayman Islands welcomed a total of 37,356 stayover visitors in August 2019, an increase of 9.99 percent over August 2018. Cruise arrivals for the same period decreased by 6 percent. The Cayman Islands cruise passenger volume is of concern given the consistent decline for the past four months. In the month of August 2019 versus August 2018 this underperformance resulted in a decline of 7.50 percent. August’s contribution continues the destination stayover tourism growth trend, marking year to date 2019 as the highest number of stayover arrivals in any year in recorded history and brings the total stayover visitation for the year to 396,650, an increase of 10.68 percent over 2018.

“As a Ministry we set out to flatten seasonality and to ensure growth of the economic benefit of Tourism for all, preliminary estimates show total visitor spend from January to August 2019 at approximately US$663 million.” commented Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism, the Honourable Moses Kirkconnell. “August arrivals to the destination have demonstrated that we are accomplishing our goals with August’s contribution marking continued record stayover tourism performance.”

Record summer performance for the Cayman Islands has carried on through August with stayover visitor performance being positively supported by the delivery of the destination’s strategic focus; to diversify target markets and grow first time visitation as well as partnerships. There has been an increase in the number of airlines who have extended and increased service in August, such as Air Canada with increased service from Toronto as well as continued new market developments such as Denver with Cayman Airways service.

The Department of Tourism has launched its annual “Fall Only in Cayman” promotion. Which this year focuses on the total immersion wellness available in the destination that stretches beyond our sand and sea. Visitors are encouraged to Find their peace in Paradise, by booking experiences ranging from organic and healthy dining options, fitness classes, spa treatments and more that warrant multiple days of indulgence, with the bonus of 30 percent off or the 5th night free.

To learn more about Fall Only in Cayman offers, please visit www.onlyincayman.com. For more information and detailed arrival statistics, please visit www.caymanislands.ky/statistics.