The record pace in the tourism industry in 2016 showed no signs of slowing down in August, says Minister of Economic Development and Tourism Heath MacDonald.
“The preliminary numbers reported by industry have the province on pace for the busiest August on record, and the third–straight record year for overnight stays,” says Minister MacDonald. “The momentum industry has built over the last three years says a lot about our reputation as a premiere tourism destination, the hard work of our quality operators, and all the wonderful things to see, do, and taste on Canada’s Food Island.”
Preliminary occupancy numbers for August, which will be finalized in mid-October, show every region in the province reporting an increase in overnight stays compared to a year ago. Total overnight stays were up 7 percent compared to August 2015 while campground stays specifically also showed a 7 per cent increase.
More people traveled to Prince Edward Island than last August. Confederation Bridge traffic showed a 9.4 per cent increase, the Charlottetown Airport reported a 7.5 per cent increase in passengers, and cruise ship traffic increased 33 per cent.
Non-member rounds played at Island golf courses held steady compared to August 2015 and year-to-date numbers remained strong, up 12 per cent compared to 2015. Visits to Provincial historic sites were up 25 per cent compared to last August.
“With PEI tourism numbers growing year over year, these indicators reflect that tourism is on a strong incline,” says TIAPEI CEO Kevin Mouflier. “Speaking with operators across the Island we are hearing positive reviews about the 2016 season and many are already booking into 2017.”
Tourism indicators are provided to the province by individual tourism stakeholders and are compiled by staff in the Department of Economic Development and Tourism. To see more, visit August 2016 Tourism Indicators .
Tourism is a vital industry and key driver of economic development in Prince Edward Island that provides over 7,700 direct jobs and contributes approximately $400 million in economic activity to provincial economy.