ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands — 27 January 2026 — The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) has reaffirmed its status as the premier hub for Caribbean maritime tourism, securing a hat-trick of major accolades at the 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards. The territory was named Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year, a prestigious title that underscores a year of aggressive infrastructure investment and record-breaking passenger arrivals across its three main islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
In addition to the cruise honour, the territory was awarded New Hotel of the Year for The Saint on St. John and Experiential Destination of the Year, reflecting a strategic pivot towards immersive, culturally rich visitor experiences.
A Maritime Powerhouse: Cruise Destination of the Year
The title of Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year recognises the USVI’s successful dual strategy of managing high-volume tourism while elevating the guest experience. The award comes on the heels of significant developments in the territory’s port infrastructure, particularly the transformation of the Crown Bay District on St. Thomas.
Late in 2025, the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) signed a landmark agreement with Royal Caribbean Group and Cruise Terminals International to modernise the Crown Bay cruise pier. The ongoing project, which includes deepening the Charlotte Amalie channel and expanding the facility to handle three vessels simultaneously—including two of the massive Icon class ships—has positioned the destination to accommodate the industry’s newest and largest tonnage.
Judges praised the destination for its seamless logistical operations across its key ports: the West Indian Company (WICO) dock and Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal in St. Thomas, and the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility in Frederiksted, St. Croix. The connectivity between islands also played a pivotal role in the win, with efficient ferry services allowing cruise passengers docked in St. Thomas to easily access day trips to St. John, home to the pristine Virgin Islands National Park.
“Whether docking in St. Thomas or St. Croix, visitors enjoy seamless access to shopping, historic sites, beaches, dining, boating, and well-curated excursions,” the awards committee noted. “Most notably, day trips to neighboring St. John from St. Thomas allow guests to experience renowned hotspots like the Annaberg Plantation and Trunk Bay Beach.”
This accolade adds to a growing trophy cabinet for the territory, which was also named the 2025 Cruise Destination of the Year by Porthole Magazine, signalling a sustained period of dominance in the sector.
Boutique Luxury: New Hotel of the Year
While the cruise sector anchors the economy, the territory is also seeing a renaissance in its land-based luxury offerings. The Saint, a new boutique property in Cruz Bay, St. John, was named New Hotel of the Year.
The opening of The Saint marks the first significant hotel debut on St. John in several years, filling a critical gap in the market for high-end, adults-only accommodation. The property has been lauded for infusing a “fresh, energetic vibe” into the traditionally laid-back atmosphere of Cruz Bay.
Targeting the affluent traveller, the hotel features a standout spa, destination dining venues, and a design ethos that blends modern Caribbean aesthetics with privacy. For the cruise industry, the addition of such high-calibre inventory is significant; it bolsters the territory’s appeal as a homeporting destination where passengers might extend their holidays pre- or post-cruise.
“From its standout spa to its destination dining experience, The Saint has quickly become a sought-after addition to the island’s hospitality landscape,” the award citation read.
Beyond the Beach: Experiential Destination of the Year
Reflecting the evolving demands of the modern traveller, who increasingly prioritises authenticity over passive sightseeing, the USVI was also honoured as the Experiential Destination of the Year.
This category celebrates destinations that offer “immersive, hands-on travel.” The USVI was recognised for its diverse portfolio of activities that go beyond the typical sun-and-sand formula. Highlights cited by the judges included kayaking through protected mangrove ecosystems, historical walking tours of Charlotte Amalie’s Danish colonial architecture, and exclusive culinary experiences such as chef’s tables at local marinas.
The award also spotlighted the enduring appeal of Buck Island Reef National Monument off St. Croix, one of the region’s finest underwater trails, which remains a top-rated excursion for expedition and luxury cruise lines visiting the island.
“These experiences are delivered in a friendly, accessible, and easy-to-explore setting, exactly what today’s travelers are seeking,” the committee stated.
Leadership Reaction
The triple victory serves as an early validation for Jennifer Matarangas-King, the recently sworn-in Commissioner of Tourism. Having taken the helm officially in January 2026 after her confirmation by the 36th Legislature, Matarangas-King has championed a strategy of “local connectivity,” ensuring that tourism growth directly benefits Virgin Islanders.
“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our tourism partners, hospitality professionals, and local communities. Together, we continue to elevate the U.S. Virgin Islands as a destination that delivers authentic experiences, exceptional service, and unforgettable moments for everyone.” – Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner of Tourism.
A Year of Recognition
The 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards add to a string of recent endorsements for the territory. In addition to the Porthole Magazine win, St. Croix was ranked #6 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Caribbean Island to Visit in 2026, while TripAdvisor’s 2025 Best of the Best list placed both Trunk Bay and Magens Bay Beach in its top ten global rankings.
For the cruise industry, the message is clear: the U.S. Virgin Islands is not resting on its laurels. With confirmed infrastructure upgrades at Crown Bay capable of hosting the world’s largest ships and a diversified shore excursion product that appeals to the “experiential” cruiser, the territory is well-positioned to defend its title through the remainder of the decade.
Visitor Information:
The U.S. Virgin Islands remains an accessible destination for U.S. travellers. No passports are required for U.S. citizens arriving from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country.
