Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and Premier Natalio Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands reconvened Tuesday to continue high-level discussions on the BVI’s proposed Commercial Recreational Vessel License fee structure, following initial talks on March 7. The latest meeting focused on updated fee proposals and efforts to enhance maritime cooperation between the U.S. Virgin Islands and the BVI, Government House announced.
Wheatley presented a revised licensing framework that reflects feedback from industry stakeholders. The updated fee structure includes:
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Term Charters (Foreign-based):
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$7,500 per year for up to 7 entries
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$2,100 per additional entry thereafter
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Or $24,000 annually for unlimited entries
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Day Trips: $8,500 per year (revised from $12,500)
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Water Taxis: $2,500 per year (unchanged)
Bryan reiterated concerns about the vessel entry and exit process into the BVI, emphasizing the need for a more efficient system. He offered technical support from the U.S. Virgin Islands in developing an automated clearance platform, according to the press release.
“The current process remains a concern,” Bryan said. “We are willing to collaborate and offer assistance in creating a system that works better for all parties involved.”
According to the BVI, development of an automated vessel entry system is already underway, with a launch expected by summer 2025, the press release stated.
Beyond licensing, both leaders underscored the broader goal of enhancing the maritime industry throughout the greater Virgin Islands. They expressed shared interest in promoting regional cooperation to maintain competitiveness and attract charter traffic across the islands, the release stated.
