A delegation representing the maritime sector of the U.S. Virgin Islands is advocating for an immediate response to what they describe as a “predatory and unfair” fee structure recently enacted by the Virgin Islands. They note that these rising costs are expected to significantly impact charter activity across the region. Photo: Internet Source

As of June 1, 2025, the Virgin Islands introduced steep increases in these fees. For example, annual multi-night charter licenses that previously cost around $800 have now increased to $24,000 per vessel. Day-trip licenses have risen from $200 to $8,500 per vessel, in addition to customary customs and immigration charges that can add another $900 to $1,200 or more for each entry. Photo: VINO/FILE

As of June 1, 2025, the Virgin Islands introduced steep increases in these fees. For example, annual multi-night charter licenses that previously cost around $800 have now increased to $24,000 per vessel. Day-trip licenses have risen from $200 to $8,500 per vessel, in addition to customary customs and immigration charges that can add another $900 to $1,200 or more for each entry.

Delegation travelled to Washington

The delegation, led by Kosei Ohno, president of Crown Bay Marina and Head of Project Fair Waters (PFW), included VI and D.C.-licensed attorney Michelle T. Meade of Meade Law, and recently travelled to the United States for discussions with the government on the increase in fees by the Virgin Islands.

During their visit to Washington, D.C., they held briefings and initiated outreach with the U.S. Department of State, the United States Trade Representative, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the U.S. Department of Commerce, according to a statement issued by the group. The effort is being coordinated with the U.S. Virgin Islands Delegate to Congress, and letters outlining their concerns have been sent to senior policymakers, including those at the White House.

PFW calls for federal engagement

Project Fair Waters (PFW) is a coalition of U.S. Virgin Islands maritime and shore-based industries with a focus on securing fair and competitive access to regional waters for U.S. charter operators and the local economy.

PFW stated that, “Because the British Virgin Islands’ external affairs fall under the authority of the United Kingdom, territorial officials in the USVI cannot negotiate independently for relief. For that reason, PFW is urging federal engagement.”

The group is also calling for federal engagement between the Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands following the recent meeting with the United States government on the matter. 

Shift removed nearly $14M in direct spending from the USVI economy

The PFW added that these changes have prompted at least 90 charter vessels, which once operated from the USVI, to relocate to the BVI. This shift has already removed nearly $14 million in direct spending from the USVI economy, with projected losses potentially reaching an estimated $100 million annually when considering the impacts on provisioning, maintenance, hospitality, and transportation.

In explaining the timing of their visit, Ohno remarked, “We came to Washington during the holidays because our season is starting right now. Without swift action, the U.S. Virgin Islands will continue losing American businesses, American jobs, and critical maritime capacity.”