Tourism Corporation Bonaire organized its Q1 Bonaire Tourism Update for 2025

Joint Stakeholder Information Session

Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) in collaboration with Bonaire International Airport (BIA), Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA), and Harbor Master (OLB), organized the first quarterly Bonaire Tourism Update for 2025 on April 3^rd, 2025, at Delfins Beach Resort.

Elësier Angel, Interim Statutory Director of TCB, presented the preliminary results, revealing that Bonaire welcomed 182,181 stayover visitors in 2024, up from 169,706 in 2023 and 157,000 in 2022, successfully meeting the 2024 target. She highlighted the five Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Focus Areas. A recap of quarter one marketing activities highlighted participation in major trade shows across Europe and North America, including Vakantie Expo, DuikVaker, IMM, the New York Travel & Adventure Show, the Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show, and Routes Americas. Additionally, Public Relations efforts in both regions were reviewed. Looking ahead, upcoming initiatives include a marketing campaign with JetBlue, scheduled press visits this month, and participation in SeaTrade, the Rediscover Bonaire campaign, Taste of Bonaire, and TCB & Friends during Dia di Rincon.

“It was a pleasure to engage with our stakeholders and media partners during our first quarterly tourism update. Open dialogue and continued investment are critical as we navigate growth in a way that benefits Bonaire and its people,” said Elësier Angel, Interim Statutory Director, Tourism Corporation Bonaire.

“With an 83% occupancy rate, an ADR of $298, and RevPar up 35% compared to last year, Q1 2025 confirms that Bonaire is in high demand. It’s safe to say these numbers are directly tied to the increased airlift we saw starting in November, with the arrival of JetBlue, Corendon, and additional flights from American Airlines. This proves that when access improves, performance follows. But without proper investment in airlift, marketing, and destination development, we risk losing momentum, and more importantly, we miss the opportunity to attract the kind of visitor Bonaire truly wants. The world is looking for nature, culture, and authenticity — we have it. Now we must ensure they can find us and reach us,” said Veroesjka de Windt, CEO of BONHATA.

Günther Flanegin, Harbor Master, commented, “The first quarter of the year has brought a good mix of vessels, ranging from traditional cruise ships, such as Carnival, to ultra-luxury vessels and adventure ships.” Furthermore, we had a very balanced schedule at the port, which highlights our efforts to manage tourism activities.”

Maarten van der Scheer, Director of BIA, noted a significant increase in international traffic, primarily driven by AA, Corendon, and JetBlue. There was stable inter-island development, with more frequencies from ZAir. Furthermore, key projects include the complete renewal of the airfield ground lightning system, a contract signed to upgrade the security checkpoint, the upgrade of the arrival area for authentic ‘bon bini’ experiences, and improved wayfinding.

A special thank you to Delfins Beach Resort for sponsoring the meeting room and Tourism After 5. Also, thank you to Fresh Supplier, who provided mini burgers during Tourism After 5.

For additional information, send an email to marketing@bonaireisland.com.