TORONTO, July 8, 2025 — Canadian travelers dreaming of a tropical winter escape have more reasons than ever to book early. Sunwing Vacations has officially unveiled its most ambitious winter travel program to date, announcing the addition of Nicaragua and Samaná, Dominican Republic to a growing list of over 25 sun-soaked destinations for the 2025-2026 season. In partnership with WestJet, the enhanced program offers direct flights from more than 20 Canadian cities, giving travelers unprecedented access to top-rated vacation spots in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.
Marking a significant milestone, this will be Sunwing’s first full winter schedule operated entirely onboard WestJet aircraft, promising improved comfort, reliable scheduling, and seamless connections. The move aims to streamline the vacation experience while maintaining Sunwing’s reputation for offering value-packed, all-inclusive packages.
“Providing Canadians with affordable, accessible vacation options is our top priority,” said Andrew Dawson, President of Sunwing Vacations Group. “With exciting new additions like Managua and Samaná, and greater connectivity through WestJet, we’re delivering unmatched travel flexibility and memorable experiences this winter season.”
New Winter Hotspots: Nicaragua and Samaná
For the first time, Canadians will be able to fly directly to:
- Managua, Nicaragua – Now available from Montreal, this lesser-known gem offers a mix of volcanic landscapes, Spanish colonial architecture, and serene Pacific coastlines. It’s a rising destination for eco-luxury travel and nature immersion.
- Samaná, Dominican Republic – A pristine coastal enclave accessible from Toronto and Montreal, Samaná is ideal for whale watching, waterfall hikes, and quiet beaches. Exclusive resort offerings here add to the allure.
Sunwing’s addition of these routes reflects a growing demand for authentic, nature-driven travel in emerging markets. According to Nicaragua’s Institute of Tourism (INTUR) and the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism, both destinations have prioritized sustainable tourism infrastructure and regional flight access to accommodate responsible international visitors.
Cross-Country Connectivity for Every Canadian
Whether you’re departing from a major hub or a regional airport, Sunwing ensures there’s a winter escape for you:
- Ontario: Flights from Toronto, Ottawa, London, Hamilton, Windsor, and Kitchener-Waterloo connect travelers to classic favorites like Cancún, Punta Cana, and Cayo Santa Maria.
- Quebec: Departures from Montreal and Quebec City now reach San Andrés and Montego Bay. Saguenay-Bagotville connects to Cancún, Varadero, and Punta Cana.
- Western Canada: Direct service from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and Kelowna makes Mexico and Central America easily accessible.
- Atlantic Canada: Halifax, St. John’s, Moncton, Gander, and Fredericton now serve sun destinations in Cuba, Jamaica, and beyond.
- Prairies: Winnipeg, Regina, and Saskatoon enjoy seamless connections to beach destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.
This national rollout marks a notable expansion from previous years, allowing more Canadians to enjoy winter vacations without long-haul layovers or complicated itineraries.
Sunwing’s Exclusive Resort Collection Gets a Boost
The airline’s new flight options are complemented by an expanded resort portfolio, with new and exclusive properties designed for every type of traveler:
| Resort Name | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Barceló Montelimar | Nicaragua | Secluded eco-luxury resort on a private beach |
| Eurostars Grand Cayacoa | Samaná | Cliffside views, exclusive to Sunwing, near natural parks |
| Dreams Playa Esmeralda | Punta Cana | Family-friendly with water park, local cuisine, and cultural programs |
| Secrets Playa Esmeralda | Punta Cana | Adults-only, upscale suites, spa and gourmet dining |
| Viva Miches by Wyndham | Punta Cana | Rising resort area, vibrant entertainment, and Viva Vibes concept |
| Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa | Punta Cana | Luxury near a marina, golf course, and equestrian center |
These resorts cater to romantic getaways, family fun, and group travel, offering premium experiences in all-inclusive comfort.
Early Booking Offers: Travel Smart and Save More
To launch the season, Sunwing has introduced limited-time early booking deals:
- Reduced deposit of $75 per person (normally $250)
- Free checked baggage
- First-pick access to resort rooms and flight times
- Exclusive discounts when booked through travel agents or at Sunwing.ca
These offers apply to travel dates from November 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026, and are available for bookings made before August 3, 2025.
Why It Matters
The demand for sun holidays is surging in the wake of long Canadian winters and a stronger Canadian dollar. Industry reports from Destination Canada and IATA forecast that outbound travel from Canada will continue rising through 2026, especially to value-oriented Caribbean and Central American destinations. With inflation affecting domestic travel, all-inclusive packages remain a cost-effective escape, especially when bundled with early discounts and loyalty perks.
Sunwing’s comprehensive 2025-2026 program reflects this trend, positioning itself as Canada’s go-to operator for winter vacationers seeking sun, service, and savings.
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