Tourism

Third Dock at Crown Bay, Larger Vessels in Frederiksted: Dowe's Vision Coming to Life as Board Approves Fee Hike for Cruise Passengers

The V.I. Port Authority Board of Governors has given the green light to a Capital Cost Recovery Charge (CCRC) of five dollars ($5.00) per passenger. This charge aims to finance significant capital improvement projects set to enhance the territory's cruise port facilities. During its Wednesday meeting, the VIPA Board empowered Executive Director Carlton Dowe to initiate dialogues with the Royal Caribbean Group concerning the CCRC's deployment. The CCRC will apply to the Royal Caribbean Group and its associated cruise ships that anchor at the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal in Crown Bay, St. Thomas. The expectation is to put this fee into effect starting January 1, 2024. Proceeds from this charge will be allocated to the preliminary tasks required to push forward the Crown Bay District Upland Development Project in St. Thomas. This encompasses the construction of a third cruise ship pier in Crown Bay and essential dredging operations. Moreover, Mr. Dowe has been granted authori...