Outstanding Growth in Tourism Industry Performance Continues in 2014

4 Months show highest ever figures in Island history!

SAINT LUCIA (September 5, 2014) – The Saint Lucia Tourist Board continues to revel in significant growth in visitor arrivals recorded for the island in the first seven months of the year. 

Touting an incredible accomplishment, SLTB officials say total stay over arrivals (by air and ferry) at the end of July 2014, have surpassed all numbers previously recorded in the island’s history.  At 208,117, visitor arrivals are 7% higher than the same period last year – a difference of more than 13,000 arrivals.

To further emphasize the significance of this year’s performance, increases were recorded every month thus far, with July recording both the highest percentage (13%) as well as actual growth (3672).  In addition, the figures recorded in the months of February, March, April and June, were the highest number of arrivals ever recorded in these respective months in the island’s history.

The expansion of the sector is fuelled by growth in particular markets, namely the US and UK, the island’s two largest markets, which increased by 14% and 8% respectively, during the seven month period.  Growth was also experienced in the Canadian and European markets, both of which increased by double digit percentages over last year.

Director of Tourism Louis Lewis acknowledged the boost in the sector and attributed its growth to the strategic marketing efforts targeted at key sectors of the source markets, most notably being the airlift expansion strategy and fostering closer relationships with the travel trade.  “The outstanding performance recorded this year is testimony to the work that the Tourist Board engages in to market the destination, and can be translated into a greater awareness of the destination in our key source markets.  We are very pleased to announce the sector’s performance for the year thus far.” 

The success also extends into the Cruise and Yachting sectors, which also recorded major increases in the last seven months.  The island recorded a 5% increase in cruise arrivals stemming from the 14% increase in calls, whilst arrivals by yacht increased 16% over the same time period. 

According to Lewis, “with such an impressive start, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board is projecting a similar if not better performance throughout the balance of the year, especially considering the increasing airlift in the upcoming winter season from both the US and Canadian markets.” 

Saint Lucia is getting ready for welcoming even more visitors to its shores via yet another flight from US carrier Jet Blue airlines. The direct flight from Boston, USA to Hewanorra International airport is scheduled to begin November 1, 2014.  

For more information about the island of Saint Lucia call 1-800 456-3984, or 1-888 4STLUCIA or visit www.saintlucianow.com.

About Saint Lucia

One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies' Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia (pronounced Saint LOO-sha) is nestled halfway down the eastern Caribbean archipelago. The "Helen of the West Indies," Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - a tropical rainforest and one of the world's few drive-in volcanoes. Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, and the annual Saint Lucia Jazz festival. Saint Lucia's wide range of accommodations includes world-class five-star resorts, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns and value-oriented properties.

For more information, visit www.stlucianow.com