THOMAS — It was a stellar year for the U.S. Virgin Islands, which played a prominent role in the Caribbean’s double-digit growth in tourism in 2023.

Under the leadership of Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of the Department of Tourism, the U.S. Virgin Islands saw a significant 39% increase in international arrivals above 2019 levels in the fourth quarter of 2023, and a 25% rise in extended stay visitors.

The hotel occupancy rate stands at a commendable 61.8% hotel, while hotel bookings within the territory also outpace the regional average daily rate (ADR) with a rate of $463.23, compared to $318.81 regionally.

While 2022 presented some challenges due to cross-industry constraints, including pilot and airplane shortages, the end-of-2023 projections for 2024 remain positive. Seat capacity has increased from the continental U.S. to 23% in St. Croix and 21% in St. Thomas, largely due to the strategy of maintaining strong relations with major carriers.

“The U.S. Virgin Islands has shown resilience and adaptability, even in challenging times. As we enter 2024, we are excited to build on our success and focus on key areas that will further elevate our destination,” said Commissioner Boschulte.

According to the Commissioner, the Department of Tourism is committed to re-engaging with international markets in 2024, with particular focus on Canada, Denmark and Italy. Key areas of focus include:

• Airlift: Engage in ongoing conversations with airline executives to increase airlift from the U.S. mainland for winter 2024-25. Restoring international negotiations with airlines in Denmark, Italy and Canada is also a priority. Focus will be made on adding flights to St. Croix from the United States, Canada and Europe.
• Cruise: The partnership with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) will help the destination increase cruise calls, create new experiences, collaborate with the local private sector and generate employment opportunities. Cruise passenger projections indicate an 80% rise through 2024, with nearly 650,000 new passengers expected.
• Marine: Strengthen partnerships with marine stakeholders, expand marine experiences, and attract businesses to set up headquarters in the USVI. Collaboration with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) on marine initiatives and working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security to support increased marine development are key goals. The destination will also be launching the Virgin Islands Boating Expo (VIBE) in 2024.
• Film: The USVI aims to attract film production with its stunning landscapes and unique locations.

In 2023, the U.S. Virgin Islands and its Department of Tourism received numerous awards and accolades, including ‘Innovation Destination of the Year’ for St. Thomas by ‘Caribbean Journal, and ‘Best  New Caribbean Hotel of the Year’ for Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef. In addition, the destination was featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the ‘Best Places to Go in 2023,’ ‘Travel + Leisure’s list of the ’50 Best 2023 Destinations’ for beach lovers, and ‘Frommer’s list of ‘Best Places to Go in 2023.’

For more information about travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands, go to https://www.visitusvi.com/.