In response to a “shortsighted and unfortunate” policy change by the British Virgin Islands imposing steep fee increases on U.S. Virgin Islands-based vessels, the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association is urging the USVI government to implement reciprocal licensing fees for BVI-based vessels and step up enforcement of all applicable maritime regulations, the association announced in a press release Wednesday.
“The marine industry supports over 5,000 jobs and contributes more than $166 million to the local economy,” VIPCA stated in a press release. “For every vessel that relocates to the BVI or day charter business that might close, it is not only that direct business that is lost. The vast network of local businesses that support and benefit from the industry — including grocery stores, mechanics, florists, cleaning services, marinas, boatyards, electricians, HVAC technicians, restaurants, and bars — will also suffer.”
VIPCA warned that, without immediate government action, the BVI’s policies will continue to siphon off vessels and talent from the USVI, causing long-term harm to the territory’s economy and its reputation as a premier yachting destination.
“If the USVI wants to protect these jobs and the future of its blue economy, it needs leadership that values the maritime sector and acts now,” the association said.
VIPCA and its members are calling on the USVI government to:
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Impose reciprocal business license fees and entry limitations on BVI-based vessels, as outlined in Schedule 1 of the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing (Amendment) Act, 2025
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Ensure all foreign mariners are appropriately credentialed, including current STCW Basic Training for all crew and STCW A/II-3 certifications for vessel masters, as required by U.S. Coast Guard regulations
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Enforce that foreign vessels possess up-to-date Yellow/Blue Code safety certificates and/or CVLA compliance, as mandated by law
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Require foreign vessels to provide proof of U.S. customs clearance before embarking or disembarking passengers, in accordance with federal law
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Require foreign vessels to provide proof of arrival and departure reporting via the eNOA/D system, as required by law
According to VIPCA, the BVI’s decision undermines the spirit of cooperation that has historically allowed the regional charter industry to flourish.
“A better path forward for both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands is working toward creating a single sailing zone — the Greater Virgin Islands — working cooperatively to provide the best experience for all that visit these islands and that call them home,” the release stated. “We stand ready to work toward that future; however, the BVI has unfortunately chosen another path — and we must respond.”
