Imagine escaping the chill of winter to the warm embrace of turquoise waters and sunny skies. That dream is becoming easier to realize for Canadians, thanks to a recent mission by The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA). High-ranking officials recently visited key Canadian cities, bringing exciting news about expanded flight options and making it simpler than ever to reach our beautiful islands.
I was so excited when I heard about this initiative. It’s a game-changer for Canadian travelers, opening up more direct routes and making those dream Bahamian getaways much more accessible.
A Warm Welcome Across Canada
The journey began in early October, with a dedicated team from The Bahamas touching down in Ottawa, Halifax, and Calgary. It was a whirlwind of activity, connecting with everyone from travel advisors to airline partners and tour operators. The goal was clear: spread the word about how much easier it is now to visit our incredible islands.
Leading the delegation was none other than the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, our Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. Alongside him was Director General Latia Duncombe. Their presence underscored the importance of this mission and the strong commitment we have to our Canadian friends.
They didn’t just talk business; they brought the vibrant spirit of The Bahamas with them! The team hosted lively trade shows, engaging destination presentations, and incredible cultural showcases, complete with energetic Junkanoo performances. Think bright colors, rhythmic music, and an undeniable party atmosphere! It was a fantastic way to give attendees a taste of the Bahamian experience, highlighting everything from luxurious resorts to family-friendly adventures, wellness retreats, and thrilling outdoor activities.
It was clear that these events were about more than just numbers; they were about building relationships and sharing the magic of our home.
Why These Cities? The Strategic Choice
Deputy Prime Minister Cooper explained the thinking behind choosing Ottawa, Halifax, and Calgary. He mentioned that these locations were perfect for showcasing the new flight options and better connections to The Bahamas. By meeting directly with our travel partners and the media in these specific cities, we could ensure that Canadians all across the country knew about the easy, expanded access to our islands.
It makes perfect sense, doesn’t it? Instead of a broad approach, BMOTIA focused on areas where new connections were making a significant impact. It’s a smart way to get the message out effectively.
Canada: A Priority Market
Director General Duncombe emphasized how important Canada has always been to The Bahamas. She noted that this mission was all about strengthening existing partnerships and making sure that the new flight services actually translate into more visitors for our islands.
She believes that by directly engaging with travel advisors, tour operators, and the media – and letting them experience a bit of our lively culture – we are truly positioning The Bahamas as the ultimate choice for Canadians this winter and beyond. It’s about creating that personal connection and showing them what makes us special.
Soaring to the Islands: New Flight Details
One of the most exciting announcements during these events was a significant increase in flights from Canada for the upcoming winter season. Get ready for a total of 45 weekly flights connecting Canadian cities directly to The Islands of The Bahamas!
This expanded schedule isn’t just a happy accident; it truly reflects a growing desire for Bahamian getaways. It also strengthens the year-round bond between our two beautiful countries. More flights mean more choices, more flexibility, and more opportunities for you to soak up the sun.
Air Canada’s Expanded Service
For the peak winter travel period, specifically from December 5, 2025, through April 10, 2026, Air Canada is introducing some fantastic new non-stop routes. You’ll soon be able to fly directly from Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW) and Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) straight to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). How great is that for those of you in Eastern Canada?
Air Canada will also continue its popular service from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Nassau, operating six to seven flights every week. And for our friends in Quebec, seasonal service from Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Nassau will return for the summer, running from June 20 to August 29, 2026, every Friday aboard their modern Airbus A220.
But wait, there’s more! Air Canada Vacations is also bringing back its weekly service from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Exuma International Airport (GGT). This service will kick off in November 2025 and continue all the way through April 2026. If you’ve been dreaming of the famous swimming pigs of Exuma, this is your chance!
Porter Airlines Spreads Its Wings
Porter Airlines is truly making its mark in The Bahamas, building on its already strong presence. They’ve just announced a brand-new non-stop service from Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), starting on February 3, 2026.
This new route adds to Porter’s recently launched direct flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW), and John C. Hamilton International Airport (YHM), all offering convenient direct access to Nassau. Porter’s continued growth provides Canadian travelers with even more choices and convenience in reaching our sunny shores. It’s fantastic to see so many options popping up!
Sunwing Vacations: Year-Round Fun
Sunwing Vacations is also showing its dedication to The Bahamas, by extending its popular Toronto–Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) route to a year-round weekly service. This means no matter when you want to visit Grand Bahama, you’ll have a direct option from Toronto!
And for our Montreal friends, Sunwing will continue its Montréal–Grand Bahama route with weekly Saturday flights throughout the entire year. It’s wonderful to have these consistent connections, making spontaneous trips or meticulously planned vacations equally possible.
Your Bahamian Escape Awaits
With all these new routes, expanded schedules, and enhanced service from so many Canadian cities, The Bahamas is truly offering more options than ever before. If you’re looking for an easy, stress-free winter escape, or simply a dose of sunshine any time of year, we want you to know that the path to our islands has never been clearer.
It’s an exciting time for travel, and we can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful home!
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main purpose of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism’s recent visit to Canada?
The main purpose was to connect with travel advisors, airline partners, and tour operators in key Canadian cities (Ottawa, Halifax, Calgary) to announce new and expanded flight options, making it easier for Canadian travelers to visit The Bahamas. It was also about strengthening relationships and promoting the islands as a top travel destination.
Which Canadian cities will have new direct flights to The Bahamas?
New direct flights will be available from Ottawa (YOW) and Halifax (YHZ) to Nassau (NAS) with Air Canada. Porter Airlines is also adding new direct service from Montréal (YUL) to Nassau (NAS).
When will these new flights begin?
Air Canada’s new non-stop flights from Ottawa and Halifax to Nassau will operate from December 5, 2025, through April 10, 2026. Porter Airlines’ new service from Montréal to Nassau begins on February 3, 2026.
Are there any year-round services being introduced?
Yes, Sunwing Vacations is extending its Toronto–Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) route to year-round weekly service. Their Montréal–Grand Bahama route will also maintain weekly Saturday flights throughout the year.
What kinds of experiences can Canadian travelers expect in The Bahamas?
The Bahamas offers a wide range of experiences, including luxury travel, family-friendly resorts, wellness retreats, and adventurous activities like diving, snorkeling, and exploring our unique culture.
Why was Canada specifically targeted for this mission?
Canada has always been identified as a priority market for The Bahamas. The mission aimed to strengthen existing partnerships and ensure that new flight access leads to an increase in Canadian visitors to the islands.
How many total weekly flights will connect Canadian cities to The Bahamas during the winter season?
During the upcoming winter season, there will be a total of 45 weekly flights connecting Canadian cities to The Islands of The Bahamas.
Ready for Your Bahamian Adventure?
With so many new and expanded flight options, your dream Bahamian getaway is now closer than ever. Whether you’re craving pristine beaches, vibrant culture, exciting adventures, or simply a peaceful escape, The Islands of The Bahamas are ready to welcome you. Don’t let another chilly winter pass you by! Start planning your trip today and discover why so many Canadians choose our beautiful islands for their perfect escape.
References
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
Air Canada
Porter Airlines
Sunwing Vacations
