The data is out and both the number of people who visited the Isle of Wight and the amount they spent here rose, over three months in 2022 compared to the same period in 2019.
A survey by Tourism South East, on behalf of Visit Isle of Wight, reveals there was a two per cent rise in the number of visitors in April to June 2022 (quarter two), compared to the same three months in 2019.
There was also a huge 45 per cent rise in the amount of money being spent here, during a period that included the Isle of Wight Festival (June) and the Isle of Wight Walking Fesitval (May).
The eagerly awaited tourism data provides an in depth look at tourism - a vital part of the Island's economy - and it is the first comparable survey since the Covid-19 pandemic.
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It shows 633,155 visitors made the trip across the Solent, booked with accommodation providers and used hospitality venues, in quarter two of this year, compared to 623,592 over the same period in 2019.
£114 million was spent here - a 45 per cent increase.
On average, each visitor spent £33.25 per day, compared to £24.30 in 2019.
For those staying overnight, the average spend-per-trip went from £198.20 in 2019, to £293.41 in 2022 (not including ferry travel).
Nearly double the number of visitors travelled here from London, following poster campaigns and other marketing in the capital, including on the TfL's underground network.
More people visited Isle of Wight attractions too. Half of all visitors went to one or more of the Island’s attractions, compared to 46 per cent in 2019.
However, there was also a dramatic fall in the number of people visiting by coach - down from 11 per cent in 2019 to just 3 per cent in 2022.
There was also acknowledgement that the cost of living crisis is starting to bite.
Will Myles, MD at Visit Isle of Wight said: "While these figures are encouraging, we know from anecdotal reports that some local businesses are already seeing the bite from the national economic downturn.
"Visit Isle of Wight is committed to ensuring that the Island and its businesses are forefront in the minds of visitors.
"Our autumn and winter marketing campaign launches in the next couple of weeks, and we hope that businesses look out for opportunities to join us in marketing the Island with one powerful voice."
The Isle of Wight is expected to get a tourism boost next month, when the final stage of the Tour of Britain seven-day cycling event arrives, on September 11.
Mr Myles said: "I urge businesses and residents to get behind the Tour of Britain and take part in the celebrations, which we hope will have an incredible lasting legacy.
"With TV crews from ITV 4, Eurosport and more, this will be a fantastic opportunity for the Island to really shine and encourage not just cyclists to visit, but their friends and family who will inevitably accompany them on their visit to the Isle of Wight."
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