dept of tourism usvi

Experience the Culture

The 21st Legislature of the Virgin Islands created the Department of Tourism on May 8, 1995. The Department is primarily responsible for the economic development of the Territory through the promotion of tourism and related activities. Other responsibilities include the formulation, implementation, administration and coordination of programs and policies pertaining to all aspects of tourism. The Department is under the supervision of the Commissioner of Tourism.

Enjoy our beautiful beaches, inspiring dining experiences, historic towns, and cultural events. Discover your real nice experience in the US Virgin Islands.

• Our Colorful History

U.S. Virgin Islands: Three Distinct Islands In One Destination

Culturalst. croix.

The United States Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The three principal islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – are magnificent tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality.

Latest News

U.S. Virgin Islands Embraces Innovation As Tourism Engine Restarts

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected] Bevan

U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Asks Florida Counterpart To Consider Vaccination Checks For Cruise Passengers

For Immediate Release Source: Government of the United States Virgin Islands Contacts: Richard Motta Jr. Office of Governor Albert Bryan Jr. + 1 340 773-1404

U.S. Virgin Islands, Jamaica Explore Caribbean Tourism “Coopetition”

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism   Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected]

Do you have a project or event in The Virgin Islands?

• 321 King Street Suite 7 Frederiksted, VI 00840
• 340-772-0357
• 2318 Kronprindsens Gade Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 00802
• 340-774-8784

Follow us on Social Media

• #usvistillnice
• @usvitourism

Government of the Virgin Islands

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS LAUNCHES ONLINE PORTAL TO PRESCREEN ALL TRAVELERS

Home » U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS LAUNCHES ONLINE PORTAL TO PRESCREEN ALL TRAVELERS

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (July 24, 2020) – The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism announced the launch of phase one of a new online portal that will prescreen and assist with the certification process of all travelers prior to their arrival in the Territory. The goal is to reduce the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Screening Portal facilitates pre-arrival processing, thereby improving efficiency, reducing delays, and providing a more seamless traveler experience.

The development process will next integrate mobile optimization for the portal, followed by a hybrid mobile application launch, and artificial intelligence to automate the processing of laboratory test results from travelers visiting from highly impacted states and territories.

The secure portal, a result of the coordinated efforts of the Office of the Governor, the Virgin Islands Department of Health, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, the Ports of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Department of Tourism can be found at www.usviupdate.com/travelportal .  

The Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands will provide oversight with respect to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance and other best practices to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of user information and personal data, and the overall integrity of the process.

Upon visiting the portal, all travelers will be greeted with a welcome that guides them through a series of screens, including General Information, Terms and Conditions, Traveler Information, and the COVID-19 Traveler Screening Tool. After travelers from highly impacted areas upload their COVID-19 test results, the information submitted will be processed in 24-48 hours and a certification code issued immediately upon completion.  

For most travelers, the portal screening and certification will eventually replace the existing manual procedure, which requires the physical completion and review of the COVID-19 Traveler Screening Tool at the Territory’s ports of entry. Once the passenger arrives, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, in conjunction with the Department of Health and the Virgin Islands National Guard, will process the traveler using the validation generated from the portal in addition to performing temperature checks with a thermal scanner.

“Our team has been working tirelessly to adapt to a rapidly changing operational environment in this ‘Open Doors’ phase of the pandemic,” said Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte, “and we continue to update our practices and procedures as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local health officials.” 

The Commissioner applauded the efforts of the interagency teams and stated that the online portal, which prescreens all travelers and validates COVID-19 test results, is another positive step towards keeping residents and visitors safe.

Any traveler aged 15 and older whose home state (state of residence) has a COVID-19 positivity rate greater than 10 percent will be required to produce a negative COVID-19 antigen (molecular/PCR/rapid) test result received within five days prior to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands or a positive COVID-19 antibody test result received within four months of travel to the Territory. Currently, residents of Puerto Rico are also subject to this requirement.

COVID-19 test results are also required from travelers, 15 years old and older, who have spent more than seven days in and are traveling from a state with a positivity rate greater than 10 percent. Positivity rates used are according to data and analysis from Johns Hopkins University: https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/testing/tracker/overview . 

For further guidance, the USVI’s Travel Advisory can be reviewed at: https://bit.ly/2CChShf .  

For more information, visit www.usviupdate.com or email [email protected] .

About the U.S. Virgin Islands

For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to  VisitUSVI.com , follow us on Instagram ( @visitusvi ) and Twitter ( @usvitourism ), and become a fan on Facebook ( www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI ). When traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens enjoy all the conveniences of domestic travel – including on-line check-in – making travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands easier than ever. As a United States Territory, travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands does not require a passport from U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens.

To Reduce Health Risks, Increase Access to Quality Healthcare and Enforce Health Standards.

• St. Croix Office (340) 718-1311
• St. Thomas Office (340) 774-9000
• St. John Office (340) 776-6400
• Office of the Commissioner
• Reports and Plans
• Office of Professional Licensure and Health Planning

Site Information & Policies

• Send Us Feedback
• About the Website
• Privacy Policy
• Non-Discrimination Notice

Follow us on

• April 15, 2024
• Virgin Islands
• Coronavirus
• VIC Regional News
• Experience The USVI
• USVI Ports HUB
• Hurricane Season
• Entertainment
• Plaza Extra East
• Legal Notice
• Real Estate
• Send us Tips
• Agriculture
• Community Center
• Top Stories
• Disaster Recovery
• Disaster Preparedness
• Race Relations
• Miscellaneous
• Human Interest
• Sponsored Content
• Weather Updates
• Investigations
• Environment
• PictureSque

To save articles or get newsletters, alerts or recommendations – all free.

Don't have an account? Sign Up

Already have an account? Log In

USVI Showcases Tourism Growth at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024

With a 13% increase in cruise traffic, usvi sets sights on further growth in 2024.

• Staff Consortium
• April 12, 2024

• Reader's Pick

Gov. Albert Bryan, center right, Joseph Boschulte, far right, and RoseAnne Farrington, center left, pose for a picture with Disney executives as Seatrade 2024 By. V.I. DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

The USVI group was led by D.O.T. Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, Assistant Commissioner Alani Henneman, and Deputy Commissioner RoseAnne Farrington.

The conference commenced with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) barbecue, sponsored by the Department of Tourism and hosted by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. The USVI delegation, comprising leaders from the Virgin Islands Legislature, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, West Indian Company Limited, Magens Bay Authority, and the U.S. Virgin Islands Government Employee Retirement System, presented the territory as a premier destination in the Caribbean.

Mr. Boschulte shared the strategic importance of the cruise sector to the USVI, noting, "Cruise has been and continues to be a leading entryway for visitors into the territory, and Seatrade allows representatives from the USVI to interface with and share pertinent updates needed to continue fostering positive relationships throughout the industry.”

Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte and Deputy Commissioner RoseAnne Farrington at Seatrade 2024.

During the conference, the tourism commissioner was featured on the Caribbean Spotlight panel. The panel was moderated by Michelle Paige, CEO of FCCA, who highlighted Mr. Boschulte’s recent recognition as the 2023 Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year by Caribbean Journal.

Paige cited the journal, stating, “No Caribbean destination has seen more growth in the last three years than the U.S. Virgin Islands, which kicked off a full-fledged tourism renaissance just after the onset of the pandemic and hasn’t looked back. And so much of that growth can be directly tied to the expert stewardship of Boschulte, who helped craft an innovative, flexible response to the challenges of the pandemic and has continued to drive the USVI’s performance with a data-driven, creative approach to modern tourism.”

The delegation also engaged in strategic discussions with executives from major cruise lines such as Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Corporation & plc, focusing on ongoing partnerships and opportunities for expansion.

Highlighting the impressive recovery and growth of the cruise sector, Mr. Boschulte noted that St. Thomas and St. Croix saw a 13% increase in visitors in 2023 compared to 2019, with more than 1,600,000 passengers from 495 ship calls. This upward trend is expected to continue, with a projected 5% increase in cruise passenger arrivals in 2024.

“I am proud to see the Caribbean's appeal continue to captivate travelers. Our collaborative efforts with partners like FCCA and the Caribbean Tourism Organization underscore the unity of our region, ensuring unforgettable experiences for visitors while highlighting the unique strengths of the U.S. Virgin Islands. With a safe, welcoming destination and a shared commitment to tourism, we embrace our role as an integral part of the Caribbean community," Boschulte stated.

U.S. Virgin Islands’ Tourism Flourishes in 2023, Sets Sights on Global Expansion

As 2023 draws to a close, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism (D.O.T.) celebrates a year marked by significant achievements under the guidance of Commissioner Joseph Boschulte. The territory has shown notable progress in key sectors, positioning itself for a promising future.

Robust Growth in Shared Economy

The year 2023 saw the U.S. Virgin Islands sustain its growth in the shared economy sector, generating an impressive $343.4 million in revenue. While this is a slight decrease from the previous year’s $360.53 million, it demonstrates the territory’s resilience. The hotel industry particularly shined, with an occupancy rate of 61.8% and average daily rates surpassing regional norms ($463.23 compared to $318.81 regionally). The Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) also consistently outperformed regional benchmarks.

Catalyst for Caribbean Tourism Surge

The territory has been instrumental in driving the Caribbean’s substantial tourism growth. International arrivals in the fourth quarter of 2023 are projected to be 39 percent higher than 2019 levels. The surge in extended stay visitors, increasing by 25, further highlights the territory’s appeal.

Optimistic Outlook for 2024

Despite previous challenges like pilot and airplane shortages in 2022, the forecast for 2024 is bright. The U.S. Virgin Islands has seen a significant increase in seat capacity from the continental U.S. to St. Croix (23%) and St. Thomas (21%), thanks to solid partnerships with major airlines.

Innovative Marketing and Sports Collaborations

The D.O.T. has broadened its marketing strategies, particularly in sports marketing. Collaborations with renowned teams and organizations, including the Boston Red Sox, New York Jets, Chicago Cubs, and Klutch Sports Group, alongside ambassadorships with athletes connected to the territory, have fueled a 21% increase in visitation from pre-Covid levels.

Cultural Vibrancy and Carnival Success

The past year was notable for the enriched experience of the territory’s Carnival celebrations. Increased participation and the expansion of Village Nights, celebrating local and Caribbean talent, have fostered cultural exchanges and attracted international attention.

Global Outreach and Market Expansion

The D.O.T. is actively pursuing re-engagement with international markets, with a special focus on Canada, Denmark, and Italy. Through integrated marketing and partnerships with global media, the U.S. Virgin Islands is being promoted as an ideal travel destination.

2024 Strategic Focus

Looking ahead to 2024, the U.S. Virgin Islands aims to enhance its profile in sports and entertainment, deepen cultural ties with the Caribbean diaspora, and expand in the marine and film industries. Key initiatives include:

• Airlift Expansion: Initiating dialogues with airline executives to boost airlift from the U.S. mainland for winter 2024-25 and restoring international airline negotiations with Denmark, Italy, and Canada.
• Cruise Industry Growth: Collaborating with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association to increase cruise visits, create new experiences, and foster local employment.
• Marine Sector Development: Building stronger relationships with marine stakeholders and attracting marine businesses to establish in the USVI.
• Film Industry Attraction: Promoting the USVI’s stunning landscapes and unique locations for film productions.

Accolades and Recognition

In 2023, the U.S. Virgin Islands and its Department of Tourism were honored with multiple awards, reinforcing their status as a premier travel destination.

A Premier Travel Destination

As the U.S. Virgin Islands reviews its successes and prepares for future ambitions, it remains a favored destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its attractions, visit here .

Revitalizing Gallows Bay: VIPA and USACE Chart a Course for Luxury Cruise Hub

U.S. Virgin Islands Triumphs with Triple Wins at 2024 Caribbean Travel Awards

You may like

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

USVI Highlights Tourism Achievements at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism showcased their recent advancements and partnerships in the cruise industry at the 2024 Seatrade Cruise Global Conference in Miami, Florida. Led by Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, Assistant Commissioner Alani Henneman, and Deputy Commissioner RoseAnne Farrington, the USVI delegation played a pivotal role at the event.

The conference began with a welcoming barbecue sponsored by the Department of Tourism and hosted by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. This gathering brought together key figures from the Virgin Islands Legislature, Virgin Islands Port Authority, West Indian Company Limited, Magens Bay Authority, and the U.S. Virgin Islands Government Employee Retirement System. Together, they promoted the USVI as a top Caribbean destination.

Commissioner Boschulte emphasized the vital role of cruising in the USVI’s tourism strategy, stating, “Cruise tourism remains a cornerstone for our visitor intake, and Seatrade offers a unique platform for us to engage with industry leaders and share essential updates to bolster our relationships.”

During the event, Boschulte appeared on the Caribbean Spotlight panel, moderated by Michelle Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA). Paige lauded Boschulte’s contributions, referencing his accolade as the 2023 Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year by Caribbean Journal. She noted, “The U.S. Virgin Islands have undergone significant growth, largely due to Boschulte’s leadership in navigating post-pandemic challenges with innovation and a data-centric approach to tourism.”

The USVI team also participated in key discussions with executives from Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Corporation & plc, exploring ongoing partnerships and new opportunities.

Boschulte highlighted the cruise sector’s robust recovery and growth, pointing out a 13% increase in visitor numbers in 2023 compared to 2019, with over 1.6 million passengers from 495 ship calls. This trend is expected to continue, with an anticipated 5% rise in cruise passenger arrivals in 2024.

He concluded, “Our collaborative efforts with partners like the FCCA and the Caribbean Tourism Organization are a testament to the Caribbean’s united front in tourism. We are committed to providing a safe and welcoming destination, ensuring memorable experiences for our visitors and showcasing the unique attributes of the USVI.”

Governor Albert Bryan Champions U.S. Virgin Islands at Global Maritime Summit

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is at the helm of a distinguished delegation from the U.S. Virgin Islands at this year’s Sea Trade Conference in Miami, Florida, taking place from April 8 to April 11. The delegation’s mission is to reinforce the territory’s eminent position in cruise tourism and maritime operations.

The Governor’s office has announced that Bryan will meet with key players in the industry and join discussions that aim to chart the course for the Caribbean’s cruise tourism future. Governor Bryan stated, “The Sea Trade Conference offers an invaluable opportunity for dialogue with the maritime industry’s elite. It allows us to highlight the unique attributes of the Virgin Islands — our enchanting scenery, rich heritage, and cultural vibrancy — all of which render us the quintessential locale for cruise lines and maritime enterprises.”

During the conference, Governor Bryan is poised to spotlight the recent enhancements in the territory’s port facilities and its commitment to eco-friendly tourism practices. He emphasized, “As frontrunners in sustainable tourism, our pledge is to collaborate with our cruise industry counterparts to foster an ecosystem that thrives for the benefit of coming generations.”

Recognized as the pinnacle gathering for the cruise sector worldwide, the Sea Trade Conference is a convergence point for a myriad of industry stakeholders, including cruise operators, port authorities, and travel professionals. The event promises expansive networking possibilities, educational forums, and debates on the sector’s evolving dynamics.

With Governor Bryan attending the conference, Lt. Governor Tregenza Roach will step in as the acting governor, ensuring the territory’s governance remains uninterrupted.

U.S. Virgin Islands Marks a Milestone in Air Travel Expansion at Routes Americas

During the recent Routes Americas 2024 forum held from March 19th to 21st in Bogota, Colombia, the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) Department of Tourism announced a notable advancement in air access and the development of airline partnerships. This achievement was highlighted through the USVI’s impactful presence at the event.

Under Commissioner Joseph Boschulte’s guidance, the USVI delegation demonstrated their strategic acumen in boosting the territory’s aviation connectivity and tourism appeal, as detailed in a department press release.

The delegation’s engagement at the event was marked by fruitful interactions with 13 key industry players, including premier airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, Spirit Airways, JetBlue, and United. These conversations revolved around strategic openings for new market gateways, enhancements to existing routes, and measures to alleviate seasonal dips, all aimed at propelling tourism growth in the region.

Commissioner Boschulte shared his enthusiasm about the outcomes of these discussions, emphasizing the significant role they played in reinforcing partnerships with crucial airlines and propelling forward the USVI’s air access agendas. “The encouraging feedback from our airline partners serves as a validation of our dedicated efforts to elevate travel experiences within the USVI,” he remarked.

The delegation’s presentation, which detailed market analyses, forthcoming marketing initiatives, and collaborative opportunities, was met with commendation from airline representatives. This reception paves the way for forthcoming joint efforts in schedule coordination and network design.

Commissioner Boschulte also announced an unprecedented surge in air arrivals for the ongoing winter season, marking a prosperous phase for tourism in the USVI. He stated, “The remarkable uptick in air traffic, especially to St. Thomas and St. Croix, reflects the success of our initiatives to expand air access and our strong collaboration with airline partners.”

From January to August 2024, air arrivals in the USVI are projected to see a stunning 28% increase from the previous year, with early 2024 data already indicating an 18% rise from the same timeframe in 2022. The 2023/2024 Continental US Winter season is expected to experience a 25% growth from the last winter and a 15% improvement from the 2021/2022 season.

Particularly, St. Thomas and St. Croix are witnessing significant expansions, with forecasts showing a 20% and an impressive 48% increase, respectively, for the December to March 2023/2024 period over the last winter. Additionally, from January to August 2024, both islands have recorded notable year-over-year growth, with St. Thomas up by 28% from 2023 and St. Croix by 17%, underscoring the territory’s positive trajectory in tourism.

The Department of Tourism remains dedicated to capitalizing on the momentum generated at Routes Americas 2024 to further improve air access, strengthen airline relationships, and ensure exceptional travel experiences. With an emphasis on sustainable development and achievement, the USVI is set on a promising path in the tourism sector.

For more information on the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit: https://www.visitusvi.com/

Virgin Islands Athletes Shatter National Records in Track and Field

Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington Advocates for Enhanced Learning Methods and Curriculum in Recent Podcast

2024 St. Thomas Carnival Crowns New Royalty: Keemayah Ford, Jazmine Samuel, and Ne’keya Fraser

CTE Board Enthusiastic About New Curriculum Standards, Yet Anxious Over Apprenticeship Support

Registered Sex Offender Detained for Illegal Firearm Possession During Annual Surveillance Drive

St. John’s Westin Resort Scene of Armed Robbery, Prompting Heightened Police Vigilance

2022 Gubernatorial Election: Voters Speak Out

Wakanda’s Female Might: A Dive into ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’

Gubernatorial Teams Celebrate St. Croix’s Bull & Bread Day

U.S. Virgin Islands Alert: Megan Smith Goes Missing; Authorities Request Community Aid

Unraveling the Home Invasion in St. John: Suspect Held on $100,000 Bail

Governor Bryan Champions Innovative Strategy for Swift USVI Recovery with $15 Billion Plan