The U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Department wrapped a successful week at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, building key partnerships and advancing its cruise strategy. Focusing on itinerary development, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainability, the USVI delegation worked with global cruise leaders to boost calls to St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.
The week began with a Caribbean BBQ hosted by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association headquarters. Sponsored by the Tourism Department, the reception welcomed cruise executives, partners, and media with Virgin Islands cuisine and cultural entertainment, setting a collaborative tone for the week, according to the press release.
Throughout the conference, Bryan and Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte held a series of meetings with key cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. Discussions centered on itinerary planning, guest experience enhancements, and infrastructure development across the three islands. Sustainability and community-focused tourism were also core themes, the press release stated.
Cruise passenger arrivals to the U.S. Virgin Islands reached 1.7 million in 2024, an increase of 90,000 from the previous year. Projections indicate further growth, with 1.8 million expected in 2025 and 1.9 million in 2026. St. Thomas and St. John saw the majority of traffic, with 542,071 passengers at Crown Bay and 983,862 at the West Indian Company dock. St. Croix welcomed 169,228 passengers at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility, the release stated.
“Seatrade Cruise Global provides an unmatched platform for dialogue with our cruise partners,” Boschulte said in a release. “We came to the table with a clear vision for growth and innovation in cruise tourism, and the interest and enthusiasm from our partners have been extremely encouraging.”
The Tourism Department also had a strong presence on the trade show floor, where its booth featured live cultural performances from steel pan musicians, moko jumbies, and dancers. Branded giveaways helped reinforce the territory’s identity as a vibrant and distinct cruise destination, the release stated.
“We’re not just selling a destination — we’re sharing our story,” Boschulte said. “Our islands offer unmatched beauty, but it’s our people, culture, and authenticity that truly make us a world-class destination for cruise travelers.”
