Tourism Dollars Swing Our Way
January 13, 2026
According to the US Travel Association (USTA), inbound Canadian travel to the U.S. was down 23% year-to-date (Jan-Oct), which equates to an estimated $4bn (£3bn) loss compared to the previous year. The organization said roughly four million fewer Canadians had visited the U.S. at that point in 2025.
As of December 17, 2025, CITY TV reported on the continuing U.S. Travel declines. It’s been a Canadian tradition to fly down south for the holidays and get a break from the snow, but all of that has changed after a turbulent year with our next-door neighbour. The story noted that a low Canadian dollar, political factors and border issues are among the reasons for the startling drop. The story cited Flight Centre Canada General Manager Anita Emilio who said travellers are looking for a stress-free experience, where they feel safe and where their dollar stretches further. That organization reported a 40 per cent reduction in travellers to the U.S.
While other sun destinations are reaping the benefit, it’s fair to anticipate that this situation will carry into the coming summer with families making plans to spend their time and financial resources at home in Canada.
That trend should be supportive of domestic summer tourism and we expect good attendance and buying interest at the Toronto and Vancouver Boat Shows next week. We will watch to see if the trend is our friend.
Also, in this edition of Boating Industry News Week Digest, we note that there is still time to register for the Industry Breakfast at TIBS on Tuesday, January 20th. It’s FREE to attend but guests need to register in advance. (See the story below)
I look forward to seeing you there!
Andy Adams Editor
