Antigua and Barbuda concluded Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 with strong tourism growth and major development announcements.

Meanwhile, the country hosted the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s flagship event for the second straight year.

The event welcomed travel professionals, tour operators, airlines, and media representatives from around the world.

Additionally, the showcase took place during Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month in May.

Tourism officials also highlighted record-breaking stay-over arrival figures during a press conference at the event.

According to officials, Antigua and Barbuda recorded 110,832 stay-over visitors during the first quarter of 2026.

That figure marked a 6.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025.

January arrivals rose five percent. February then increased by six percent. Meanwhile, March posted the strongest growth at eight percent.

Furthermore, the United Kingdom recorded the largest source market increase during the quarter with 14 percent growth.

However, the United States remained the country’s biggest tourism market overall.

Officials said U.S. visitors accounted for 46 percent of stay-over arrivals.

Europe followed with 34 percent, while Canada accounted for 12 percent.

At the same time, Antigua and Barbuda continues efforts to expand tourism ties with Latin America and Africa.

Tourism Minister Charles Fernández and Tourism Authority CEO Colin James both highlighted the sector’s continued momentum.

Meanwhile, officials projected major growth in the cruise sector for 2026.

Cruise arrivals are expected to rise by 21.9 percent compared to 2019 levels.

As a result, projected cruise visitor numbers could reach nearly 895,000 this year.

Officials also expect cruise ship calls to increase from 388 to 483.

In addition, a new US$30 million cruise terminal opened earlier this year as part of the Upland Development Project.

The country also expanded its airlift with new regional and international routes.

Sunrise Airways launched service to the Dominican Republic earlier this month.

LIAT Air also introduced flights to Guadeloupe.

Meanwhile, Air Peace plans to launch Antigua-to-Lagos service later this month.

Several hotel projects also remain under development across Antigua and Barbuda.

Officials highlighted Moon Gate Hotel & Spa, Nobu Beach Inn, Nikki Beach Resort, Rosewood Hotel Barbuda, and a new Marriott project.

Overall, officials said Antigua and Barbuda remains well-positioned as demand grows for safe and welcoming travel destinations.