TIPS FOR MARINE TRAVELERS
The U.S. Virgin Islands — which includes St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, Water Island and our uninhabited out islands — is the destination of choice for marine travelers to and within the Caribbean. Come and enjoy our rich culture and history, culinary diversity, breathtaking beaches, amazing marinas, beautiful coves, picturesque views, unique boating experiences and off-the-beaten path adventures.
Marine Overview
USVI offers all the natural amenities for marine travelers seeking a Caribbean vacation with the comfort and convenience of a U.S. destination. Our facilities stand out for their numerous berths and ability to accommodate sizeable boats and mega yachts, as well as exceptional facilities, services, staff and entertainment.
We are your destination of choice for:
- Boating, sport fishing, fishing and diving-related businesses
- Fishing tournaments, nautical weddings, boating festivals and yacht regattas
Marine Environment
The territory is sensitive and protective about the environment. It is illegal to discharge or discard refuse of any kind within the three (3) nautical mile limit of the territorial waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Marine Concierge Center
Centralized access to marine services
Before you travel, review Information for Marine Vessels and Passengers
When you arrive, review Information for Leisure Travelers
Business and Investment
You will need a license to operate a marine business. It is only a 72-hour turnaround if you expedite the application. For more information, visit the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.
The Territory welcomes investment in the marine industry. For more information, visit the United States Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority.
Marine Services
Marine services are provided by a host of local businesses and include maintenance/repair/mechanical, ship chandlery and vessel provisioning. Click here to find registered businesses
Facilities
- ST. THOMAS
- American Yacht Harbor Marina
- Boater’s Haven Marina
- Compass Point Marina
- Crown Bay Marina
- Fish Hawk Marina
- French Town Harbour Marina
- Pirate’s Cove Marina
- St. Thomas Yacht Club
- Saga Haven Marina
- Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina
- Vessel Bay Marina
- Yacht Haven Grande Marina
- ST. CROIX
- Green Cay Marina
- Jones Maritime Marina
- St. Croix Yacht Club
- Salt River Marina
- ST. JOHN
- Canak Bay Shipyard
- Coral Bay Marina (project in process)
Boat Yards
Independent Boat Yard, St. Thomas
Haulover Marine Yachting Center, St. Thomas
St. Croix Marine Center, St. Croix
Virgin Islands Port Authority Facilities: 14 facilities: 6 on St. Thomas, 3 on St. John and 5 on St. Croix.
FADs: There are currently 5 Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), 4 North of St. Thomas and 1 West of St. Croix.
Mooring and Anchoring
All vessels that anchor in the waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands are required to obtain a long-term anchoring permit and pay long-term anchoring fees. Long term is 14 days or more. See the Virgin Islands Port Authority for information on marine vessels and passengers.
Location of Moorings: Virgin Islands National Park on St. John
One hundred anchor moorings for transient vessels, including charter boats, super yachts and private recreational cruising yachts, have been approved. The moorings will be strategically placed around the islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, within the territorial water limit.
Tariffs and Fees
Click here to view our competitive rates for docking fees, head taxes and harbor use fees.