Bryan met with charter yacht association on marine tourism proposals

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. met with leaders of the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Yacht Association on July 14, 2025, to discuss proposals for the territory’s marine tourism sector, according to Government House.

Government House said the meeting included maritime advocate Oriel Blake and VIPCA Executive Director Kenan Cummings. The discussion covered the charter yacht industry, access to moorings and workforce development tied to the marine sector.

Government House said Bryan reiterated support for the proposed Marine Charter Business Revitalization Act, which would provide 10 years of tax relief for charter and day-yacht operators, including a reduction in the gross receipts tax to 2.5%, a 50% cut in income tax obligations and fuel concessions.

The administration also said Bryan discussed plans for additional mooring access, sail-up and swim-up beaches, expanded beachfront dining and amenities, and dedicating part of the Department of Tourism budget to marketing marine tourism, including charter yachts, scuba diving and sportfishing.

Government House said Bryan and VIPCA also discussed ongoing work on mooring projects and marine vocational training programs.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-meets-with-vipca-to-advance-marine-revitalization-and-blue-economy-growth/