The Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) has received approval to expand cruise ports on St Croix and St Thomas.
VIPA, Royal Caribbean Group (RCG), and Cruise Terminals International (CTI) are collaborating to enable larger ships to visit Frederiksted in St. Croix.
The focus is primarily on the Crown Bay cruise port on St. Thomas, aiming to enhance its position as a premier cruise ship destination.
The project includes the revitalization of the Subbase and Crown Bay area on St. Thomas, modernizing the Crown Bay Centre, and potentially expanding the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal.
VIPA, RCG, and CTI signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in September to redevelop Crown Bay and increase berthing capacity, with Royal Caribbean Group committed to expanding pier infrastructure in St. Croix.
This partnership ensures the US Virgin Islands maintains its position as a top Caribbean destination, according to VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe: “the Caribbean and the rest of the world are not going to wait for the USVI to advance.”
