The number of people visiting Guernsey for a holiday or work has fallen 34% over the last five years, with a 14% drop over the past 12 months alone.
The latest figures were published yesterday, showing a dramatic downturn in the number of visitors in many areas.
There are decreasing numbers of people visiting the island for leisure, work, a long stay, or via a cruise ship.
The number of people visiting the island to see family and friends – including for weddings and funerals – rose slightly last year compared to both 2023 and 2019, while the number of visitors coming via their own yacht also increased.
An unspecified increase for ‘other visitors’ was also recorded.
There was a 2% increase in the number of ‘staying visitors’ – meaning those who stayed for at least one night – during 2024 said the Tourism Management Board.
That increase is a direct comparison with 2023’s – but the overall number of visitors remains down.
Compared with five years ago the number of visitors staying at least one night has fallen 21%.
The number of day trips coming on a cruise ship has failed 67% compared to pre-covid and 55% compared to 2023.
Day trippers coming by ferry or aeroplane have also decreased in number year on year and compared to five years ago.
The number of people visiting Guernsey by private yacht rose 11% last year, compared to 2023 – which is 16% higher than five years ago – the only positive change across that time period.
The Tourism Management Board has sought to see the positive in the figures, with Chair Hannah Beacom welcoming the 2% increase in staying visitors (for more than one night) during 2024 compared to 2023.
“The 2024 report shows that the year was one where we had strong successes in some areas, and weaker performance in other areas. While the cruise sector had a challenging year, it is important to remember that our overall visitor performance is now improving year on year. The number of staying visitors – the group which contribute by far the most to the economy – has continued to grow, and while that growth is only by 2%, it is still encouraging in a challenging global climate.
“I do not want to ignore the impact that the drop in cruise numbers will have had on some businesses that are reliant on those visitors though. This is an area we are working hard on, and I am confident that the steps we are taking will pay off and see growth in this area as well in the coming years. Alongside Visit Guernsey and the Cruise Steering Group, the intention is to ensure Guernsey is put back on the cruise map, and some of the changes starting this year will have a significant impact, such as the alongside berthing that will be starting for some ships at the harbour.”