Royal Caribbean Group announced a landmark agreement on December 17 2025 with the Virgin Islands Port Authority and Cruise Terminals International to redevelop the Crown Bay District in St. Thomas. The partnership will transform Crown Bay Center into a mixed‑use tourism destination, adding commercial, recreational, and cultural spaces for residents and visitors.
The new agreement builds on the $250 million public‑private partnership that was announced in 2023, which tripled Crown Bay’s footprint and added a third berth. While the exact additional investment under the 2025 agreement has not been disclosed, the partnership signals a continued commitment to expanding the district’s capacity and amenities.
The redevelopment will create a range of new jobs during construction and in ongoing operations, and it is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the local community, including opportunities for entrepreneurs, taxi drivers, and tour operators. The project will also modernize the waterfront to accommodate larger cruise ships and enhance the overall passenger experience.
Royal Caribbean’s President and CEO Jason Liberty said the project “continues to strengthen our integrated vacation platform and reinforces our commitment to delivering world‑class experiences while supporting local communities.” Senior Director of Destination Development Melissa Morales added that the Crown Bay project “enriches visitor experiences while contributing to local prosperity.”
Strategically, the Crown Bay redevelopment represents a key component of Royal Caribbean’s broader destination‑development strategy, which also includes Perfect Day at CocoCay and new Royal Beach Club locations. By investing in exclusive destinations, the company aims to deepen customer loyalty, increase repeat bookings, and differentiate its itineraries in a competitive Caribbean market. The agreement is a long‑term play that will shape the company’s growth trajectory over the next several years.
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