usvi tourism office

Experience the Culture

The 21st Legislature of the Virgin Islands created the Department of Tourism on May 8, 1995. The Department is primarily responsible for the economic development of the Territory through the promotion of tourism and related activities. Other responsibilities include the formulation, implementation, administration and coordination of programs and policies pertaining to all aspects of tourism. The Department is under the supervision of the Commissioner of Tourism.

Enjoy our beautiful beaches, inspiring dining experiences, historic towns, and cultural events. Discover your real nice experience in the US Virgin Islands.

• Our Colorful History

U.S. Virgin Islands: Three Distinct Islands In One Destination

Culturalst. croix.

The United States Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The three principal islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – are magnificent tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality.

Latest News

U.S. Virgin Islands Embraces Innovation As Tourism Engine Restarts

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected] Bevan

U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Asks Florida Counterpart To Consider Vaccination Checks For Cruise Passengers

For Immediate Release Source: Government of the United States Virgin Islands Contacts: Richard Motta Jr. Office of Governor Albert Bryan Jr. + 1 340 773-1404

U.S. Virgin Islands, Jamaica Explore Caribbean Tourism “Coopetition”

For Immediate Release Source: United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism   Contacts: Alani Henneman-Todman, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism +1 340 774-8784 [email protected]

Do you have a project or event in The Virgin Islands?

• 321 King Street Suite 7 Frederiksted, VI 00840
• 340-772-0357
• 2318 Kronprindsens Gade Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 00802
• 340-774-8784

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St. Thomas Adventures...

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St. Thomas Overview

Staying In St. Thomas

Around St. Thomas

 To Do In St. Thomas

Welcome To St. Thomas

St. Thomas, one of the three United States Virign Islands, along with St. Croix and St. John, St. Thomas is one of the most beautiful island destinations in the world, dressed with powdery beaches and sun-drenched weather. St. Thomas is located in the Lesser Antilles, 1,600 miles south, south east of New York City; 1,100 east, southeast of Miami; 70 miles of San Juan. St. Thomas and its nearby neighbor St. John, lay between the Atlantic and the Caribbean. St. Thomas offers the natural beauty of the islands with a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgins, is one of the most breathtaking harbors in the world and the most visited port in the Caribbean. Exquisite dining, spectacular nightlife, and the finest duty-free shopping in the world are abundant in Charlotte Amalie. Its reputation as the shopping capital of the Caribbean draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually from throughout the Caribbean region and the world.

If Traveling To St. Thomas Visit USVITRAVELPORTAL.COM For Entry Procedures.

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• weddings / romance
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St. Thomas Beach Guide

St. Thomas has over 40 major beaches along its sun-drenched coasts. There are strands with crystal blue water and swaying coconut trees where a beach bum can enjoy a lazy-lazy day. For more active beach goers there are sandy coves with activities like windsurfing and kayaking. Some shores are rugged and rocky offering beauty, solitude and the opportunity to daydream about castaway fantasies. And there are widely popular bay-like beaches with amenities such as restaurants, rest rooms, chair rentals and complete water sports centers offering a variety of rental equipment .

St. Thomas Weddings / Romance

DID YOU KNOW THAT... Many couples are opting to save the money (not to mention the stress and hard work) of a big wedding at home by escaping to a Caribbean island for a combination wedding/honeymoon. Upon their return, they can share the event by showing the video and photographs at an informal reception. All the islands are beautiful and, on some, weddings have become a major promotional tool. So why should you choose St. Thomas above others?

Moving To St. Thomas

St. Thomas, one of the three United States Virign Islands, along with St. Croix and St. John, St. Thomas is one of the most beautiful island destinations in the world, dressed with powdery beaches and sun-drenched weather. St. Thomas is located in the Lesser Antilles, 1,600 miles south, south east of New York City; 1,100 east, southeast of Miami; 70 miles of San Juan. St. Thomas and its nearby neighbor St. John, lay between the Atlantic and the Caribbean.

St. Thomas Cruise Ship Arrival

St. Thomas has two cruise ports - - The West India Company Dock (almost universally referred to as Havensight) and Crown Bay. Both are located on the south side of the island not far from Charlotte Amalie. Generally, the ships of Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean (except Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas) dock at Havensight. Cunard, Princess, Holland America and Oasis and Allure typically dock at Crown Bay. This can change depending on the number of ships in port. Deeper draft ships such as Queen Mary 2, Oasis and Allure are required to dock at Crown Bay.

Planning A Trip

Planning a trip to the St. Thomas is exciting, fun and so easy…..

St. Thomas Food Tours

Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour On St. Thomas More Info

• Events & Festivals

So many wonderful events and things to do in St. Thomas

St. Thomas Water Sports

Come join us in our exploration of the unique underwater world.

Discover America's Paradise

Everything for staying & playing in st. thomas in the u.s. virgin islands.

• Where to Stay
• Things To Do
• Where To Eat
• Island Overview
• Beach Guide
• Water Sports
• Weddings / Romance
• Moving Here
• Cruise Ships
• Plannig A Trip
• St. Thomas Videos
• St. Thomas Weather

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• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
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• ©2022 VisitStthomas.com All photos + content © 1999-2021- all rights reserved VisitStCroix™ VisitStJohn™, VisitStThomas™ and VisitTheVI™ are trademarks and service marks of Tom Yaegel Associates, Inc

Discover America's Paradise In The Beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands.

Everything for staying & playing in st. croix in the u.s. virgin islands.

GETTING AROUND IN ST.CROIX

St. Croix Beach Guide

Did you know... St. Croix is ringed by beaches of all shapes and sizes, some are long white sand stretches, others are small patches shaded by low sea grape trees and towering coconut palms. Some have smooth sandy bottoms ideal for swimming, and others have rock and coral-lined entries perfect for snorkeling! Did you know... St. Croix is the only Caribbean Island where a diver can: ●Dive a wall that drops over 13,000 feet ●Dive a reef that is the largest living reef of any Caribbean Island ●Dive five wrecks that are within 100 yards of each other ●Dive a pier MORE INFO      

St. Croix Weddings / Romance

DID YOU KNOW THAT... Many couples are opting to save the money (not to mention the stress and hard work) of a big wedding at home by escaping to a Caribbean island for a combination wedding/honeymoon. Upon their return, they can share the event by showing the video and photographs at an informal reception. All the islands are beautiful and, on some, weddings have become a major promotional tool. So why should you choose St. Croix above others? MORE INFO

Moving To St. Croix

DID YOU KNOW... In addition to it's long and rich multicultural history, friendly people, open spaces, the blue sea and near perfect year-round weather, there are a number of reasons to consider relocating to St Croix. Most importantly, the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St Croix, operate under U.S. law which is important in both business and personal matters.  This means mainland US companies do business here including retail stores such as K-Mart, Radio Shack, Office Max, McDonald's and Wendy's. Also U.S. financial services including a variety of U.S. mortgage, insurance and banking companies offer local service. U.S. cellular phone companies including AT&T and Sprint, both operate here. MORE INFO  

St. Croix Cruise Ship Arrival

Our Port The Ann E. Abramson Pier is named in honor of the Virgin Islands Public Works Commissioner who was responsible for much of the rejuvenation of the Frederiksted area. This is the pier where most of the large cruise ships dock, as well as military ships, submarines, and other naval vessels. From time to time, tall-ships especially from Denmark, can be seen here. The dock itself has been a favorite diving place especially for viewing bright coral, sponges, and a multitude of fish life. A night dive should reveal the sea-horses unique to this pier. Visitors arriving at the pier often walk through the small town of Frederiksted and walk to the nearby beaches and beach club. MORE INFO

Planning A Trip

Planning a trip to the St. Croix is exciting, fun and so easy…..

St. Croix Food Tours

Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour On St. Croix

• Events & Festivals

St. Croix Water Sports

Come join us in our exploration of the unique underwater world.

• Where To Stay
• Things To Do
• Where To Eat
• Island Overview
• St. Croix Videos
• Beach Guide
• Water Sports
• Wedding / Romance
• Living / Moving Here
• Cruise Ships

Legal Stuff

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

© Copyright 2023 VisitStCroix.com All photos + content © 1999-2023- all rights reserved VisitStCroix™ VisitStJohn™, VisitStThomas™ and VisitTheVI™ are trademarks and service marks of Tom Yaegel Associates, Inc 

Government of the United States Virgin Islands

Recent News from Government House

Governor Bryan Travels to Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines 

Governor Bryan Proclaims March 17-24 National Agriculture Week in the US Virgin Islands

Governor bryan extends deepest condolences to the mcintosh family, initiatives & events, clean water action, vi slice homeowernership program, gvi financial fellows program, stay informed, receive updates from the governor's office.

Sign up for email alerts to learn more about issues important to Virgin Islanders

Fire/EMS Integration

Medicinal cannabis, workforce development.

ALBERT BRYAN JR.

Albert Bryan Jr. is the ninth-elected governor of the Virgin Islands of the United States. Throughout his extensive career in the public and private sectors, he has been a tireless and compassionate advocate for the economic and political advancement of the people of the Territory. During his first term, Governor Bryan served with distinction as a Democrat and the only African American governor under the U.S. flag.

• Non-Residents
• Vision 2040
• Hotel Investment

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 2024 estate planning conference  |  vi slice town hall meetings.

EDC Tax Incentives

Reduction in Corporate Tax

Reduction in Personal Income Tax

Exemption on Gross Receipt Tax, Business Property Tax, Excise Tax Payments

Reduction in the Customs Duty from the Standard 6% to 1%

EZC Tax Incentives

Exemption on Gross Receipt Tax & Business Property Tax

(Only Applicable for Residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands)

LET'S CHAT   Are you interested in doing business in the Virgin Islands? Call us 340-714-1700 Learn More

Latest news.

19,308 Jobs Created Through the EDC Tax Incentive Program(direct, indirect and induced jobs from 2013 to 2015)

+$1.01 Billion in Wages and Salaries by EDC Beneficiaries(from 2013 to 2015)

$9.6 Million in Charitable Contributions by EDC Beneficiaries(from 2013 to 2015)

Industries in the USVI

Health Care

Agriculture, alternative energy, manufacturing, consulting services, agribusiness, marine industries, hotel/ guesthouse, recreation facilities, retirement facilities, why we love the u.s. virgin islands.

“ As the third-generation owner and general manager of The Buccaneer, I am pleased to help continue building the tourism sector in the Virgin Islands. Through our partnership with our Economic Development Authority and the Department of Tourism, we have been able to succeed in employing 225 local resident workers, and support the community in education, conservation, health, the arts, and more. In business on St Croix for 72 years, we look forward to welcoming new businesses to join us in developing tourism in a sustainable, thoughtful way, and to enhance our offerings to attract even more guests to our beautiful islands. ”

“ I went in for my first EDB loan and because of certain circumstances I walked out and took my business plan and I started my business with my own funds. In 2017, I went back in and I wanted to expand. EDA was there in the time they were supposed to be there. I learned through the pitfalls and bruises and they were there in those moments. ”

“ Beyond fulfilling the dream of ownership, we asked ourselves the essential question of how to succeed in such a competitive marketplace - a world in which travelers have instant access to literally thousands of choices at their fingertips. The answers: Firstly, utilize all the tools at our disposal to improve and market our company. The VI Economic Development Authority assists in capital improvements and spurring employment, and the USVI Department of Tourism, whose sole endeavor is to guide people to the island. Secondly, be different, unique and create something that no one else has to offer in the same way. Sand Castle is uniquely situated physically to offer just that: part of the US Virgin Islands for easy access from the American market, located on the island’s prime swimming beach and structurally able to offer accommodation to a wide variety of clientele. Operationally, our philosophy regarding guests is single-minded: to offer hands on hospitality where guests experience a level of personal interaction with us that make them feel welcomed, appreciated and part of a truly special travel experience – not just their time at the hotel itself – but for the island of St Croix as a whole. ”

“ I’m a proud business owner supported by the USVIEDA. After the devastation of the storms, we were able to get financing to sustain ourselves during rough times. I encourage everyone to take advantage of their program to start their business or get additional funding for your business. ”

“ The EDB has made the process easier to secure a loan and I got all the help from the EDA staff as they walked me through the process. Because of the loan I was able to see my business progress my business and I’m glad to say I paid off my loan. I encourage others in the community to take advantage of the program. I represent the Virgin Islands and I love it! ”

“ Since opening Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden in 2015, I have had tremendous support from the Department of Tourism (DOT). The staff at DOT has continually gone over and beyond in supporting my business as they market Phantasea on their website and frequently reach out to ensure that our information is up to date. Although only open for four years, the unique experience of the "Real Virgin Islands" that Phantasea provides is something that tourists enjoy, locals can be proud of, and the reason that we are rated as the #1 recommended tourist attraction on St. Thomas on TripAdvisor. We thank DOT for being an active advocate on our behalf and the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority for providing tax benefits that incentivizes Phantasea to be a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. I look forward to many years of success with the partnerships we’ve created with DOT and the VIEDA. ”

“ 15 years ago, I received a loan from SBDA and they helped with agriculture supplies for my family estate farm of 64 acres. We rare the St. Croix white-hair sheep and many vegetables. Since my parents passed in the 60s, we’ve been taking care of the farm. UVI does research on these particular species of sheep and we do research with UVI and now we harvest cucumbers, avocados, and peppers. Farming is a hard job and we appreciated the loan as we are looking to expand the farm. I like to encourage farmers to participate in loans that are available through SBDA and USVIEDA, Economic Development Bank. ”

“ I have had a very positive experience with the Economic Development Authority program. They did guide me through the process of applying for a loan. It was a little tedious; however, I think the important thing was the way they assisted me as a local, as a new business. Something that hadn’t been here before, but something that I thought would enhance the business community in St. Thomas and in particular in the Garden Street area. This was an opportunity for me to put together to benefit and hopefully grow on. This is my 4th year and I’m still here. ”

“ The EDB loan program was very beneficial. The process was a little time consuming, but at the end the staff was very supportive. They were very good at wanting to know if I needed help with anything. Calling and checking up on whether I was ok after the storms made me feel that they really cared about the people. It’s been a really good program. ”

Financing Options

The State Small Business Credit Initiative Program was created by the 2010 Small Business Jobs Act to support small business lending and encourage financial institutions to be more aggressive in their lending activities.

Maximum Enhancement Amounts

If you are a business in Frederiksted, St. Croix that has the greatest potential for generating new business activity in Frederiksted, did you know that you can have first priority in receiving a loan through this program at a reasonable interest rate?

The Farmers and Fishermen Loan Program offers loans for commercial farmers and fishermen. Loans are secured by acceptable collateral.

The Micro-Credit Loan Program offers a secured loan subject to creditworthiness of applicant and/or guarantor. The loan amount shall be from $1,000 to $50,000.  The maximum loan term is 5 years.

The Economic Development Administration Loan Fund offers loans up to $75,000 for dislocated workers with the best prospect for establishing or expanding their own businesses.

Do you need funds for community development projects, to create a new business or expand an existing  one?  Do you want to create employment opportunities, save existing jobs or hire persons that have a low income for your business?  If so, this program might be for you.

SBDA loans provide financing for general business purposes and may be :

The Development Loan Program offers secured loans from $10,000 to $500,000.

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Zone Incentives

South Shore Trade Zone

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Ready to Start or Move Your Business to the Virgin Islands?

U.S. Virgin Islands: America's Business Paradise