US VIRGIN ISLANDS, St Croix – In an ambitious move to enhance St Croix’s economic landscape and solidify its status as a top-tier cruise destination, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has unveiled a legislative proposal permitting cruise ships to operate their onboard casinos while docked in St Croix.
This focused initiative aims to attract major cruise lines and increase visitor spending, directly benefiting the local economy and enhancing the island’s allure to travelers.
“This legislation is about more than just casino operations; it positions St Croix as a must-visit location on Caribbean itineraries,” stated Governor Bryan during a recent government briefing. “Approximately 90 percent of cruise passengers disembark to explore our islands, stimulating our local businesses. Allowing onboard casinos to remain operational while in port provides passengers with more choices and generates greater opportunities for our residents and businesses.”
The governor emphasized that this bill is part of a comprehensive strategy by the Bryan-Roach administration to rejuvenate St Croix’s tourism sector, building on the increased cruise visits seen over the past three years. Currently, cruise ships dock at the Port of Frederiksted for an average of ten hours, often limiting passengers’ full experience of the island.
“Our approach is clear: extend the day, encourage longer stays, and boost spending,” Governor Bryan said. “We want visitors to fully enjoy all that St Croix has to offer, whether it’s additional tours, shopping, or immersing themselves in our rich culture. This legislation serves as an economic incentive for cruise lines by saving on fuel costs while keeping passengers engaged in our local economy.”
The proposed legislation follows the successful model of Act No. 6287, which has allowed cruise ship casinos in the St Thomas and St John districts for over two decades. Extending these benefits to St. Croix is expected to attract more cruise ships, driving economic growth for local enterprises.
“Frederiksted has been at the heart of our administration’s efforts to revitalize the downtown area. Initiatives such as the ‘Derelict & Abandoned Buildings Legislation’, the Frederiksted Jazz series, and waterfront redevelopment are all aimed at improving the visitor experience,” added Governor Bryan. “This legislation is a pivotal advancement in our mission to make St Croix an even more enticing destination.”
In further efforts to enhance the appeal of Virgin Islands town centers, Governor Bryan also announced a $1 million investment for revitalizing downtown Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, and Frederiksted. These funds will aid local organizations in generating economic activity and attracting residents and visitors alike through after-hours events.
“Strengthening the economic viability of our towns has always been a top priority. By collaborating closely with our cruise partners, we’ve successfully tripled the number of passengers visiting our islands. This new casino legislation is expected to bolster our position in the cruise industry,” concluded Governor Bryan. “It is crucial for the 35th Legislature to act swiftly to unlock St Croix’s full potential.”
Additionally, the governor highlighted long-term strategies aimed at enriching visitor experiences, such as encouraging cruise lines to source locally, investing in shore power to reduce emissions, and participating in local nighttime events, including the revival of “Harbor Night” festivals supported by a $250,000 grant.
“Our goal is to cultivate a vibrant Frederiksted that attracts both tourists and locals for a variety of events and activities,” said Governor Bryan. “This legislation is a vital component in our plan to increase cruise ship traffic, boost stay durations, and significantly enhance our economy.”
In conclusion, Governor Bryan expressed gratitude to the 35th Legislature for considering this vital legislation and called for its prompt approval. “Together, we can propel St Croix forward, enrich our tourism offerings, and foster a brighter future for the Virgin Islands,” he stated.
This legislative proposal reflects just one of the many initiatives from the Bryan-Roach administration aimed at securing the long-term prosperity of the Territory, from revitalization projects to support for significant cultural events, all committed to establishing the Virgin Islands as an outstanding global destination.
