Ubersoca Cruise will generate more than invested- Hon. Luce D. Hodge-Smith
The Ubersoca Cruise is expected to visit the Virgin Islands, bringing over 3,000 guests to Tortola as part of its inaugural trip to the territory for the Ocean’s 11 Edition. The Virgin Islands is the latest destination added to the cruise’s itinerary.
USC is the largest soca festival at sea and will depart from Miami, Florida, before docking at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park in Road Town on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Increase in estimated revenue
During a press conference on Friday, November 7, 2025, Honourable Hodge-Smith responded to a press question regarding the investment made by the government to bring in Ubersoca cruise. She cited a 2024 Study by the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association, which indicated an average passenger spending of $72.49; however, she projected that passengers would spend between $100 and $120 each during their time in the Virgin Islands, representing a 30% to 60% increase over previous estimates.
"With six to eight hours ashore of the contribution, it's estimated $15 per hour, to the economy with over 4,000 passengers. So we could generate approximately $350 to $420,000 in spending."
Funds invested break even with projected revenue
She further stated, "So the funds that we've expedited in terms of investing, we kind of break even in a sense, but then...this is just the passengers, but then, you know, it could also go up to maybe $600,000 to $750,000 overall compared to other events that the passengers might necessarily participate in."
The Junior Minister clarified that the figures are estimated amounts.
She elaborated on the breakdown of spending, indicating that 60% would go towards direct expenditures, such as food, taxis, and retail, totalling between $350,000 and $420,000. An additional 25% would be indirect spending by suppliers, utilities, and logistics, while 15% would account for household spending and wages for local vendors.
Ultimately, she emphasised, "Ubersoca single day in port represents more than a moment of celebration. It is [a] concentrated surge of commerce that reaches from the pier to every corner of our economy."
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23 Responses to “Ubersoca Cruise will generate more than invested- Hon. Luce D. Hodge-Smith”
First of all the ship coming here for 2pm and out the port by 3pm to attend the activities which is within walkjng distance all inclusive, by the time rhos activities finish it is Dark and they will all head back to the ship from fetting leqving no amkney for Raxis and Shops then night Kick in. Explain to me now how $100 to $120 will be spent.
Perhaps those in charge here in Tola could have gotten a few pointers from our neighbours since the ship was there before.
Elections are coming soon, and questions need to be answered!
Hon. Minister,
I would like to request some clarification regarding the Uber Soca Cruise and its engagement with the Territory:
Investment: How much money did the Territory invest in the Uber Soca Cruise?
Beneficiaries: Who is truly benefiting from the cruise’s visit to the Territory? My understanding is that most of the activities take place on board the ship, and since it is an “all-inclusive” experience, guests typically do not spend significantly when they disembark.
Marketing and Promotions: What marketing and promotional efforts have been made for this event? There were discussions over a year ago about the Uber Soca Cruise visiting the Virgin Islands; however, to my knowledge, there has been little to no visible promotion until now, just two weeks before its arrival. There was no mention of it during our Festival Season, nor any initiatives such as promotions or competitions (e.g., opportunities for residents to “win a cruise”).
Return on Investment: What is the expected return on this investment, and what is the projected timeframe for realizing these returns?
Event Logistics: Where will the main onshore event(s) take place, and what plans are in place to manage regular workday activities and traffic when approximately 3,000 guests disembark for what appears to be a large-scale celebration?
Event Access and Charges: Current promotional materials appear somewhat unclear. Some reports suggest there will be an admission charge. Could you please clarify who is expected to pay this fee — the cruise guests, local residents, or both?
Local Business Involvement: Will local businesses have the opportunity to showcase or sell Virgin Islands products and services as part of this event?
I appreciate your time and look forward to your clarification on these matters.