Canadian Travel to The Bahamas Soars as Ottawa Leads the Way

As the number of Canadians travelling to The Bahamas increases, it is emerging as a top travel contender. Travel from Ottawa to The Bahamas has risen over 50% in the past year. With new direct flights launching this December, the islands are now a direct destination.

On October 6, The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas, visited Ottawa to host an evening of Bahamian hospitality.  Joined by Director General Latia Duncombe, Cooper shared insights on tourism, cuisine, and growing ties with Canada.

Cooper is an eloquent, engaging, and persuasive ambassador for The Bahamas—his warmth and clarity reflect the very spirit of the islands he represents. “There’s a longstanding relationship between Canadians and Bahamians,” Cooper said. “Our tourism office has been in Canada since 1968, and we’ve built a deep bond over decades of shared travel and friendship.”

Specifically, Canadians travelling to The Bahamas are among The Bahamas’ most cherished visitors. “They’re respectful, adventurous, and they truly appreciate the culture,” Cooper noted. “We see a 40 percent return rate among Canadian travellers, which tells us they feel at home—and we thought the time was right to welcome even more.”

Born in Forbes Hill, Exuma, Cooper is no stranger to resilience. The youngest of twelve children, he lost his father at age five. Later, he earned a BA in Economics and Finance from Acadia University and an MBA from Nova Southeastern University. Before entering politics, Cooper built a successful career in finance, serving as Chairman and CEO of BAF Global Group and BAF Financial & Insurance Ltd. His leadership drives The Bahamas’ tourism renewal, focused on sustainability, investment, and global partnerships.

The timing of Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper’s visit to Ottawa couldn’t be more strategic. Starting this December, Ottawa travellers can fly directly to Nassau on Air Canada and Porter Airlines. Furthermore, the expansion adds 45 weekly nonstop flights from Halifax, Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary. This surge in flights shows growing demand among Canadians for winter escapes beyond the beach. With 41 airports across The Bahamas—20 of them offering international service—the country’s infrastructure makes island-hopping and remote exploration both accessible and seamless.

For many of the Canadians travelling to The Bahamas, the shared Commonwealth heritage adds a sense of familiarity and ease, reinforcing why more than 40 percent of visitors from Canada return. “Canadians visit for many reasons,” Cooper said. “Snowbirds, families, and young people alike love the laid-back environment. Whether it’s an all-inclusive family resort or a boutique luxury experience, we offer options for every kind of traveller—served by world-class hoteliers and resorts.”

Beyond the beaches, The Bahamas has something for everyone. “We’re proud to offer Canadians more than just sun and sand,” Cooper said. “Adventure, wellness, music, art, culture, and incredible cuisine—all delivered with the warmth and hospitality that Bahamians are known for.”

That diversity of experiences is exactly what keeps Canadians travelling to The Bahamas. From laid-back luxury to high-energy exploration, The Bahamas caters to every pace and passion—making it far more than just a beach destination.

“There’s no shortage of things to do,” Cooper said. “Whether it’s diving, sailing, fishing or just being at the beach or dancing at a local festival, The Bahamas has something for everyone— . . . and did I mention the food?” he adds with a smile!

And for the Canadians travelling to The Bahamas, there’s an added layer of comfort. “We share a common Commonwealth heritage,” Cooper said. “That means shared values, familiar customs, and a sense of ease when visiting. It’s part of why Canadians feel so welcome here—and why they keep coming back.”

With Canadians active in the global tourism scene, The Bahamas offers a warm, authentic alternative to U.S. winter spots. However, for Ottawa residents, paradise is now just a direct flight away.

Note: The Bahamas’ infrastructure is built to support seamless travel across its 700 islands and cays. With 41 airports across the country—including 20 with international service—visitors can easily island-hop or access remote destinations with ease. Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau remains the largest and most connected hub, but airports in Freeport, Marsh Harbour, Exuma, and Eleuthera also offer direct links to Canada and the U.S.

Discover more of our Caribbean destinations here.

Photos: Courtesy bahamas.com/photos