Bermuda sends a message: It’s close, welcoming and amazing

Bermuda has certainly captured the attention of Canadian travellers as the island of 62,000 continues to see both interest and arrivals growing significantly.

That was the word from tourism officials from Bermuda who set sail with guests for a two-hour cruise of Toronto Harbour aboard the Yankee Lady earlier this week.

Jamari Douglas, VP Marketing, PR & Communications for the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA’s) was there to welcome guests, telling Travel Press Today (TPT) that the island had seen its Canadian visitations grow by 61% in April alone, while year-to-date, Canadian visits were up by 41%.

Clearly, the BTA’s efforts in this market are paying off, with Douglas attributing the growth to that increased engagement coupled with the expanded airlift from BermudAir and Air Canada.

Along with celebrating Dark & Stormy Day [an icon Bermuda cocktail], Douglas said the event also provided a further opportunity to engage with the Canadian market and continue the BTA’s work of building relationships here.

He noted as well that Canadian travel advisors and tour operators definitely have a role to play as Bermuda continues to send its message to Canadians that it’s close, welcoming and an amazing place to visit.

BermudAir’s Julie Rempel was also onboard for the evening’s festivities telling the gathering that the carrier will add Montreal as its third gateway on June 12.

Rempel said the Montreal service will operate twice weekly and advance sales for it have been strong.

BermudAir is also increasing the frequency of its Halifax flights from twice weekly to three-times a week as the demand for it continues to grow significantly.

And the carrier’s 5x per week Toronto service – launched a year ago – continues to see strong sales.

When asked ‘why?’ Rempel came straight to the point: “Bermuda is an amazing place to visit.”

It’s also close – two hours from Montreal and Halifax, and about two and a half from Toronto – and will appeal to families, couples, along with small meeting and incentive groups.

Rempel also pointed to BermudAir Holidays and its golf offering – Bermuda has 7 courses – and all of them are offered in the program, including the icon Mid-Ocean course.

With all that’s going on, Douglas told the gathering that “it has never been easier” to visit Bermuda and when Canadians do, “Bermuda will welcome you.”

For more, check out https://www.gotobermuda.com/bta

In the photo

Bermuda Tourist Authority’s Jamari Douglas and BermudAir’s Julie Rempel