Shortly after Carnival Corporation announced plans to transform the port of Ensenada, Mexico with exciting new experiences for visitors, Royal Caribbean revealed a similar project to revitalize a popular cruise port in the Caribbean.
Both projects will benefit the local economy and improve the cruise port experience for visitors arriving to the destination, no matter which cruise line brings them there. While Royal Caribbean is in the midst of rapidly expanding its portfolio of exclusive destinations that are only available to its passengers, the company also partners with local governments and port operators to upgrade cruise port facilities for the benefit of all visitors and local residents.
With its newest agreement, Royal Caribbean is investing in a port that’s visited regularly by a variety of cruise lines in a destination beloved for its gorgeous Caribbean beaches, stunning views, and lively culture.
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St. Thomas is one of the most loved Caribbean cruise destinations. Photo credit: elvirkins / Shutterstock.com
Royal Caribbean is investing in St. Thomas
On Dec. 17, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, Royal Caribbean Group, and Cruise Terminals International signed a landmark agreement to redevelop the Crown Bay District at the port of St. Thomas into a new, mixed-use destination for residents and visitors. A collaboration between the public and private sectors, the agreement represents a major investment in tourism and economic growth in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The project is designed to refresh the waterfront area, turning Crown Bay Center into a modern hub for tourism with enhanced commercial, recreational, and cultural areas. The redevelopment will support the local economy through the creation of new jobs during the construction phase and ongoing operations, new entrepreneurial opportunities for local businesses, and improved opportunities for local taxi drivers and tour operators.
Related: Royal Caribbean cancels select Caribbean cruises for 2026
“This initiative represents the future of tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands. To remain competitive in the rapidly changing global tourism sector, we must continue to innovate and invest in experiences that meet modern travelers’ expectations while benefiting our local community. The redevelopment of the Crown Bay District aims to achieve this goal. It will enhance our current standing and lay the groundwork for the next generation of economic growth, opportunities, and destination development,” said Virgin Islands Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe.
St. Thomas port redevelopment will elevate cruise passenger experience
St. Thomas is already a popular destination among cruise vacationers and enhancing the port experience will ensure that St. Thomas remains a leading cruise port in the Caribbean. Cruise passengers can expect new activities and cultural experiences, new food and beverage and retail offerings, and an improved arrival experience at the port.
“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 U.S. Virgin Islands,” said Melissa Morales, Royal Caribbean’s senior director of destination development for the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe.
The Crown Bay District redevelopment project is valued at more than $200 million. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, and will be phased to minimize impact to cruise and retail operations.
Related: You can visit 2 new beach clubs on Royal Caribbean cruises in 2026
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This story was originally published by TravelHost on Dec 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the Come Cruise With Me section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
