Expanded Tender Landing Pier Reopens at St. Croix’s Cruise Port

(St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands) - The Virgin Islands Port Authority has reopened its brand new, larger, and improved south tender landing service pier at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility in Frederiksted, St. Croix today. This upgrade will improve the experience for local operators using the pier and for visitors arriving at the island’s cruise port. 

The pier, which was previously damaged during the 2017 hurricanes, has been rebuilt as a stronger structure measuring 80 feet long and 50 feet wide. It now provides access for tour providers, dive and snorkel vessel operators, cruise tenders, and excursion boats. Eleven Construction was awarded the contract to rebuild the south tender landing pier. The project was funded by a $2.05 million appropriation from the USVI Legislature at the request of Governor Albert Bryan Jr. Although construction began in 2023, it was delayed by shipping issues with materials and drilling equipment, and it was completed in February 2026. VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe thanked the public and users of the pier for their patience during the reconstruction period.

The Abramson Marine Facility now features operational north and south tender landing piers. The north tender pier was previously open to the public, with fees waived during the reconstruction of the south pier. Now that both piers are operational, the standard docking fee for non-commercial small crafts will be reinstated at $3 per foot per day, effective April 6, 2026. To request docking at these tender landing piers, please contact the VIPA marine manager’s office at (340) 778-3131.