USVI Welcomes Return of Caribbean’s Soca-Themed Cruise Experience from 2023-2025
ST. THOMAS, USVI (June 22, 2022) - The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) announced that the destination is the official partner for the UberSoca Cruise as the company resumes its “Carnival at Sea” events in 2023. Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte and Division of Festivals Director Ian Turnbull discussed the new partnership during a Facebook Live event last Friday with Trini Jungle Juice, the leading media brand that covers Carnival celebrations worldwide.
USVI Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte (bottom center) is pictured with Trini Jungle Juice (upper left) and Ian Turnbull, Director of the USVI Division of Festivals during a Facebook Live on Friday June 19.
After canceling cruises in past years due to the pandemic, UberSoca Cruise is finally returning with three sailings in 2023 for the first time – one in April and two in November – allowing cruise-goers to stop at several Caribbean destinations including the USVI. With its three islands, each hosting their own Carnival, the USVI is poised to provide engaging and memorable experiences for visitors.
The announcement reinforces the USVI’s commitment to the cruise industry, already a favorite port of call in the Caribbean. It is also a chance to elevate the three unique Carnival experiences available to visitors in the USVI. Furthermore, by engaging the largely Caribbean visitors on UberSoca Cruise, the USVI is also reaffirming its place among other Caribbean destinations. The islands will showcase their beaches, watersports, hiking, and local cuisine alongside their vibrant musical performances.
Commissioner Boschulte said the partnership is a clear way that the destination is advancing towards its goals. “We have traditionally been a cruise destination, so partnering with UberSoca Cruise is a natural fit. But it’s more than that. These cruises will immerse visitors in the USVI experience once they arrive, showing them all there is to do on our three islands and creating a desire to come back and stay for a longer time,” he said.
UberSoca Cruises first sailed in 2016 as cruises that were more inclusive by expanding the offerings to include a more local approach to cruising. Based on soca music – inspired by African and East Indian rhythms of calypso originated in the Caribbean – the cruises offer more than just entertainment, with networking and culinary experiences as well. The USVI’s participation showcases its identity as a Caribbean destination through music and celebration, and not just an American one.
Ticket sales for the upcoming 2023 UberSoca Cruise will begin on July 1.
About the U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands are an official U.S. territory in the Caribbean that consist of three individual islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands are rich with culture, history, surrounded by breathtaking beaches. When traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens can enjoy all the conveniences of domestic travel as no passport is required for U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the United States. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).