The Turks and Caicos Islands have welcomed nearly a million visitors in the first six months of 2024, according to a press release.

The islands recorded a total of 590,105 cruise passengers for the first half of 2024, an increase of 19.45 percent compared to the corresponding period of 2023.

Cruise passenger numbers in June reached their highest point for the year, with 110,504 passengers from 24 cruise calls.

This represents an 82.65 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to the statement.

Minister of Tourism Josephine Connolly said: “The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to be the premium class destination of choice in the Caribbean for our market. From our award-winning beautiful beaches to our world-class luxury resorts, we continue to deliver! Data shows that this trend will continue into the winter season and I am very excited about the new American Airlines fight into South Caicos in February which will open up our multi-island destination to even more visitors and spend for our industry.”