Ground will break this year, 2026, for the Brandywine Bay Development Project, Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has said. Photo: Google Earth

During his State of the Territory Address at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Premier Wheatley stated that the Virgin Islands is experiencing one of the strongest periods of tourism performance in its history. Photo: VINO

In an effort to enhance the visitor experience in the Virgin Islands, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) announced that groundbreaking for the development of Brandywine Bay will take place this year. Photo: VINO

During his State of the Territory Address at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Premier Wheatley stated that the Virgin Islands is experiencing one of the strongest periods of tourism performance in its history.

He said that over the last three years, visitor arrivals have steadily climbed, from approximately 994,896 visitors in 2023, to more than 1,092,139 visitors in 2024, to a record-breaking 1,202,008 visitors in 2025, the highest tourism arrivals ever recorded in the history of the Virgin Islands.

But, according to Hon Wheatley, growing tourism numbers can also present an issue of "overcrowding".

“We understand very well, however, how overcrowding can negatively impact the visitor experience, and that is why we are laser focused on developing additional attractions for wider distribution of visitors. That is why I am pleased to announce that Brandywine Bay, which has been promised for many years, will break ground this year.”

Premier Wheatley also said there are a number of other attractions that will serve cruise passengers in particular, "which are under consideration and will be shared with the public".

'It’s time to move this project forward'- Premier

While addressing residents at a district meeting in February 2026, Premier Wheatley described Brandywine Bay as a hidden gem that has been overlooked for many years, stating, “It’s time to move this project forward.”

At that same meeting, Permanent Secretary Ronald F. Smith-Berkeley provided details about the proposal, noting that some of the land initially believed to be government-owned was not, and boundary clarifications were ongoing.

Smith-Berkeley stated that the first phase of development for Brandywine Bay would include refurbishing existing facilities, constructing a restaurant, and installing kiosks along the length of the beach. 

He added that Brandywine Bay is not primarily suited for swimming due to the presence of seagrass, which does help with sand retention; however, kayaking and other water sports, such as snorkelling, would be excellent activities for this area.