Sunwing Vacations has reported a significant surge in demand for alternative sun destinations following the suspension of its Cuba program earlier this year. The company, Canada's largest vacation provider to Cuba, saw year-over-year bookings to the Dominican Republic increase by 50 percent after temporarily ceasing Cuba operations.
Dominican Republic leads growth
Destinations within the Dominican Republic experiencing the strongest growth are Puerto Plata and Samaná. Bookings to Puerto Plata alone increased by 60 percent, while Samaná also posted significant gains following expanded service, resort, and experience offerings. According to Deana Murphy, Vice President, Sales & Business Development at Sunwing Vacations, “Canadian guests remain highly intentional about how they spend on travel, with value continuing to play a major role in destination choice.”
Mexico and other destinations gain traction
Beyond the Dominican Republic, Sunwing is seeing increased interest in Mexico, which now represents a significant portion of the company’s total booking mix and contributed approximately a quarter of all displaced Cuba demand. Cancun leads current-year bookings, while Cozumel and Mazatlán continue to gain traction. Mazatlán saw year-over-year booking increases of more than 70 percent.
For guests seeking unique local charm and immersive experiences, Costa Rica and Panama are gaining momentum. Bookings to Liberia, Costa Rica, increased by 100 percent, while Rio Hato, Panama, rose by 35 percent. Beach-focused destinations such as the Bahamas also resonated with Canadians, with bookings to Freeport increasing more than 20 percent year over year.
Shifting travel preferences
Murphy noted, “Properties such as Eurostars Grand Cayacoa are emerging as strong alternatives for guests who previously vacationed in Cuba, offering a compelling mix of affordability and unique local charm.” She added, “As travel demand evolves, we’re seeing guests gravitate toward destinations that offer a strong balance of affordability, quality resort experiences and the warm hospitality guests value most.”
Sunwing historically accounted for far more than 50 percent of overall Canadian capacity to Cuba. The company remains hopeful for Cuba’s future. “Cuba has been an important part of Sunwing’s story for many years, and we remain hopeful for the destination’s future and the communities that have long welcomed Canadian guests,” said Murphy.
Guests impacted by the Cuba program suspension can find updates and options on Sunwing’s Cuba travel updates page.
