The Government of the Virgin Islands is seeking to implement an environmental levy for cruise passengers to the territory. Photo: VINO/File

Minister for Communications and Works Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) speaking at the Tenth Anniversary Celebration for Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park this morning, February 16, 2026. Photo: Facebook

Hon Rymer was speaking at the Tenth Anniversary Celebration for Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park this morning, February 16, 2026.

According to the Works Minister, the next decade is about sustainability, modernisation, and resilience, and the government is looking at how to integrate green technology into its port operations.

“We are examining ways to reduce our environmental footprint while increasing our economic output.

‘Not a new concept’

“And in that spirit, today, I announce that I have asked the Chairman of the Board [of the BVI Ports Authority] to consider implementing an environmental levy for cruise passengers visiting our shores. That is not a new concept. It is being charged in other jurisdictions across the Caribbean, and we should be no different.”

Hon Rymer said the revenue will be dedicated specifically to the preservation of the environment, “the very beauty that brings visitors there in the first place”, and that he was looking forward to working with the board and all stakeholders to make this a reality.

Visitors to the Virgin Islands, excluding cruise passengers and crews of vessels, are charged an Environmental and Tourism Levy of $10.00 to be paid upon arrival at all ports of entry. The levy became effective on September 1, 2017.