USVI Charter Yacht Show 2025 Marks the Start of a Busy Season

The 2025 USVI Charter Yacht Show, hosted by the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association (VIPCA) from November 7–10 at IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas, showcased the best in luxury crewed yachts. Brokers from the Caribbean, the U.S., and Europe toured the fleet, signaling the official start of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ busy charter season, a key reason the territory was named Caribbean Yachting Destination of the Year for 2025.

Yacht participants included multihulls and monohulls, power and sail vessels up to 141' LOA, each offering bespoke experiences for guests. Standout winners included Apricity (Bali 4.6) for Best in Show Class 40'–54', Whisky Sunset (Bali 5.4) for Class 55'–59', and Reverie (Lagoon 65), which won both Best in Show Class 60'+ and Best Crew. Captains and crews emphasized tailored service, emotional connection, and luxury experiences as the hallmarks of their offerings.

Economic impact remains significant, with the Virgin Islands Bureau of Economic Research reporting that 2024 charter activity contributed around $133 million to the territory’s GDP, including $43 million in wages. VIPCA highlighted the importance of the industry for local business growth, employment, and sustainable tourism.

The show also recognized individual excellence in the industry. Chris Patrick of CKIM Group earned the Distinguished Broker Award, while Paradise Yacht Management co-founder Michael “Hank” Hampton received the Industry Recognition Award, both honoring contributions to USVI charter growth and professionalism.

Sponsors played a central role in the event’s success. CC1 Virgin Islands, the official beverage sponsor, featured Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Cruzan Rum in the mixology competition and throughout the show, while other supporters included the USVI Department of Tourism, IGY Yacht Haven Grande, Risk Strategies, and a host of local businesses.

Despite challenges such as hurricanes, the global pandemic, and recent regulatory changes in the British Virgin Islands, the USVI charter industry has remained resilient. VIPCA Executive Director Kennon Jones underscored the importance of community and collaboration in sustaining the territory’s vibrant marine tourism sector.