Published on
January 2, 2026
Bermuda is swiftly emerging as an important location for sports tourism, with golf tourism taking center stage. The ongoing relationship between the PGA Tour and the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) has contributed greatly not only to international awareness of Bermuda as an important location but also to substantial economic growth. As one of the most beautiful destinations in the world for playing golf, Bermuda is not ceasing to capitalize on its beauty as it maintains its status as the destination of choice with world-class tourism. The success of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship is ensuring that Bermuda takes center stage as a premier tourist destination worldwide.
Bermuda’s Successful Sports Tourism Strategy
In 2025, Bermuda’s tourism economy saw a significant boost, with the BTA announcing more than $32 million in new tourism contracts, much of it directed towards promoting high-profile sports events, including the PGA Tour’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship. This initiative is not just about attracting visitors for a single tournament but about positioning Bermuda as a year-round hub for world-class sporting events. The partnership with the PGA Tour, which has extended through 2028, aims to bring international visitors to the island by offering a combination of luxury accommodations, scenic beauty, and elite sporting experiences.
The tourism authority’s commitment to leveraging golf tourism as a pillar of the island’s economic strategy highlights the growing importance of sports tourism to the local economy. By focusing on elite events like the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Bermuda seeks to create a sustainable, high-value tourism model that attracts visitors not just for one event but for multiple sporting experiences throughout the year.
The PGA Tour’s Role in Boosting Bermuda’s Global Appeal
At the heart of Bermuda’s golf tourism success is the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, held annually at the iconic Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton. This PGA Tour stop has become a marquee event in the FedExCup schedule, attracting professional golfers and fans from all over the world. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones and known for its breathtaking cliffside views along the Atlantic Ocean, provides an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.
The tournament has quickly grown in stature, benefiting from the island’s unique appeal. In 2025, the BTA allocated over $17.3 million to continue its sponsorship of the PGA Tour until 2028. This financial commitment underscores the strategic importance of the event in Bermuda’s tourism plans. Tyler Dennis, PGA TOUR Chief Competitions Officer, expressed the importance of the event, saying, “The PGA TOUR is honored to be a continued guest of Bermuda each year for the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, both a critical component of our FedExCup schedule and a key economic driver for the local community.”
Through the championship’s global television coverage, Bermuda’s striking landscapes and world-class facilities are showcased to millions of viewers around the world, elevating the island’s profile as a golf tourism hotspot.
The Economic Impact of the PGA Tour
The economic impact of the PGA Tour’s involvement in Bermuda is substantial. Not only does the event attract a global audience, but it also directly contributes to the island’s economy. In 2023, the event contributed $17.7 million to Bermuda’s economy, a slight increase from the previous year, showcasing steady growth. Visitors to the island spend money on accommodations, dining, entertainment, and transportation, further boosting the local economy.
Beyond the financial impact, the championship also supports community engagement through charitable initiatives and volunteer opportunities, strengthening Bermuda’s ties to both the local population and its international visitors.
The rise in golf tourism has also created new business opportunities for local vendors, particularly in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors. The extended presence of golf tournaments like the Butterfield Bermuda Championship encourages longer stays, benefiting local businesses beyond the event dates and helping to balance seasonal fluctuations in tourism.
Expanding Bermuda’s Sports Tourism Offerings: SailGP and Beyond
While golf remains a focal point of Bermuda’s sports tourism strategy, the island has also embraced other major sporting events to further diversify its tourism offerings. SailGP, the high-speed international sailing league, has quickly become another significant draw for tourists, particularly those interested in marine sports. The 2024 SailGP event, held in Bermuda, generated over $4.9 million in economic impact, attracting more than 4,200 attendees and providing extensive media coverage.
Bermuda’s ability to host such prestigious events is a testament to its status as a globally recognized sports destination. The 2026 Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix is expected to bring even more attention to the island, further cementing its reputation as a hub for elite sporting events.
Attracting Golf and Adventure Tourists to Bermuda Year-Round
Bermuda’s tourism strategy goes beyond just hosting events—it aims to attract year-round visitors. The island’s stunning scenery, excellent weather, and exceptional golf courses make it an ideal destination for both short getaways and extended stays. While the Butterfield Bermuda Championship is the centerpiece of Bermuda’s golf tourism efforts, the island offers a variety of year-round golf experiences, including multiple courses and practice facilities.
The destination is also increasingly popular for luxury vacations, with high-end resorts, world-class restaurants, and cultural experiences. As the global travel landscape evolves, Bermuda is positioning itself as a year-round destination for golfers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a mix of relaxation and excitement.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Bermuda’s Tourism Industry
As Bermuda’s sports tourism sector continues to grow, the island is well-positioned to reap the long-term benefits of its investments in golf and other major events. The focus on high-value, sustainable tourism ensures that Bermuda remains an attractive destination for affluent travelers and those seeking unique, immersive experiences.
With a diverse mix of activities, stunning natural beauty, and world-class events like the Butterfield Bermuda Championship and SailGP, Bermuda’s tourism sector is poised to continue growing well into the future, helping to secure the island’s place as one of the premier destinations for sports tourism in the Caribbean and beyond.
Bermuda’s Golf and Sports Tourism Future Looks Bright
As Bermuda continues to solidify its position as a leading destination for golf tourism and sports events, the island’s long-term tourism strategy is set to yield positive results. With increased international exposure, strategic partnerships, and a focus on high-value tourism experiences, Bermuda is set to thrive as a top-tier sports tourism hub. Whether for golf, sailing, or luxury vacations, Bermuda is poised to offer a diverse and attractive destination for travelers seeking world-class experiences.
