Royal Caribbean has partnered with the U.S. Virgin Islands to redevelop the St. Thomas cruise port.
On Wednesday, December 17, the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA), Royal Caribbean Group (RCG), and Cruise Terminals International (CTI) signed an agreement to modernize the Crown Bay cruise port.
The goal is to turn the Crown Bay District into a vibrant, mixed-use destination for residents and visitors, with better commercial, recreational, and cultural spaces.
Not only that, but the project will have significant financial benefits for the community, including new jobs during the construction phase, the creation of entrepreneurial opportunities for local businesses, and better opportunities for taxi drivers and local tour operators.
"Royal Caribbean Group proudly supports the revitalization of the Crown Bay District. By providing elevated experiences for our guests while also paying respect to the local culture and delivering significant economic benefits to the community, we can collectively usher in a new future for [the] U.S. Virgin Islands," said Melissa Morales, Senior Director, Destination Development, Americas, Caribbean, and Europe, Royal Caribbean Group.
Kevin Goldstein, Head of Development for the Americas for Cruise Terminals International, added, "Crown Bay is a priority destination within CTI's global portfolio, and this agreement provides the underpinning for a very significant and substantial long-term investment into St. Thomas and [the] U.S. Virgin Islands."
"We are extremely excited to continue our collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group and Virgin Islands Port Authority partners toward the realization of this ambitious and exciting redevelopment of Crown Bay," Goldstein continued.
Read more: I tried one of Royal Caribbean's new VIP excursions in St. Thomas
Royal Caribbean isn't the only cruise line that's investing in port redevelopment
Carnival Cruise Line is also making waves in Mexico, with a major project announced for Ensenada.
Like Nassau, Ensenada ranks poorly in customer satisfaction surveys. However, Carnival's redevelopment plan aims to elevate the guest experience while benefiting the local community.
The $26-million Ensenada Bay Village project, in partnership with ITM Group and Hutchison Ports ECV, will focus on celebrating the culture, community, and natural beauty of Baja California, Mexico.
Additionally, the venture will create new opportunities for local artisans, vendors, and tour operators, generating around 350 direct and 800 indirect jobs that deliver more than $120 million in annual revenue for the local economy.
Highlights of the new port area include curated gastronomy experiences, artisan crafts, an adults-only pool area, chocolate and tequila tastings, river rides, a zip line, and more.
Read more: Carnival announces bold plans to upgrade cruise port in Mexico
