The National Park Service announced on Tuesday a new phase in the revitalization of Caneel Bay at the Virgin Islands National Park with the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Caneel Bay Lodging Zone leasing opportunity.
The RFQ invites interested parties to submit their qualifications to rebuild, improve, and manage overnight accommodations and amenities at the iconic location in accordance with NPS policies.
The RFQ represents the initial prequalifying phase, with qualified candidates proceeding to the Request for Proposals (RFP) stage, the NPS said.
"Caneel Bay overnight accommodations provide a unique publicly offered lease opportunity with stunning ocean views along the north shore coastal landscape," said Superintendent Penelope Del Bene. She added that the site's cultural and natural resources are "significantly important to the local communities."
Caneel Bay Resort, originally established in the 1950s by Laurance Rockefeller and Jackson Hole Preserve, Inc. as a "Rockresort," was an early model of eco-tourism luxury. However, the resort has remained closed since hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the area in 2017, leaving many guest rooms and support structures severely damaged. Since then, the property has been without overnight accommodations, awaiting restoration.
The phased reopening of Caneel Bay is part of a plan outlined by the Finding of No Significant Impacts (FONSI), which the Virgin Islands National Park has been implementing following an April 2024 U.S. District Court decision that officially transferred ownership of the resort's lands and improvements to the United States.
The NPS said it aims to work with the new operator to provide high-quality services and accommodations that prioritize visitor experience while establishing Caneel Bay as a leading eco-tourism destination. The project emphasizes sustainable management practices and aims to support a circular island economy that benefits both Virgin Islanders and visitors.
The NPS will arrange tours of the Caneel Bay site for potential respondents in early to mid-November, according to the release. Interested parties can refer to the RFQ for details regarding the schedule. Additional information and the full RFQ can be accessed through the NPS website.
