Gov Bryan urged to strike back VI with reciprocal charter licensing fees
The annual fee for foreign-based vessels seeking unlimited access to VI increased from $800 to $24,000 following an amendment to the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act that took effect on June 1, 2025.
The annual fee for day charter operators increased to $8,500 from $200. Meanwhile, the new fees for VI-based vessels range from $800 to $4,000, depending on vessel size.
According to the USVI-based WTJX, in an article on June 16, 2025, VIPCA, in a statement issued last Wednesday, July 11, 2025, criticised the VI government for implementing what it called a “short-sighted and unfortunate” increase in licensing fees.
The association is now calling on the USVI government to strike back through reciprocal measures that would impose comparable licensing fees and stricter enforcement on VI-based vessels operating in territorial waters.
“If left unaddressed, these policies will continue to drive business out of the USVI, resulting in job losses, reduced tax revenue, and long-term damage to the territory’s reputation as a premier yachting destination,” VIPCA said in its statement.
Governor Bryan defends VI's actions
Despite the pressure from the charter industry, according to WTJX, Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr. defended the VI government’s actions as reasonable and economically necessary. The governor said he would not impose reciprocal fees.
“We met with the BVI on several occasions, and we negotiated what we think was fair,” Bryan told WTJX. “It’s only fair that they get paid for people to come into their waters. They’re really worried about their charter industry.”
Governor Bryan also expressed sympathy for the VI’s economic pressures, noting the British territory lacks federal support structures like the Federal Emergency Management Agency, unemployment insurance, and other U.S.-backed aid mechanisms.
“They need to make their economy work,” he said.
Kennon Jones, VIPCA executive director, told WTJX in response to the governor’s stance that the Association was disappointed that the government is not standing up for the local charter industry.
“At the end of the day, it’s going to mean lost jobs, lost income, and will hurt the overall economy locally,” he said.
.png)
Follow Us On
12 Responses to “Gov Bryan urged to strike back VI with reciprocal charter licensing fees”
We really do not want any yachts visiting and spending money in the BVI. Very sad