VIPA Awards Contract for Dredging of Charlotte Amalie Harbor

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands — The Virgin Islands Port Authority Board of Governors, at its meeting held on March 18, 2026, voted to award a contract for the dredging of the Charlotte Amalie Harbor, including the turning basin and Yacht Haven Grande Marina in St. Thomas. The contract was awarded to Orion Marine Construction, Inc., for marine dredging services at a cost not to exceed $41,927,000.00, with a 365-day contract term.

The bid evaluation was conducted by VIPA representatives, with representatives from the West Indian Company Limited and Yacht Haven Grande present and engaged in the evaluation discussion. This long-anticipated project, which began its planning process in 2008, is a major step forward in enhancing the Territory’s maritime infrastructure. The dredging will improve navigational access and make it easier for larger cruise vessels to berth at the West Indian Company Dock in Havensight, strengthening St. Thomas’ position as a premier cruise destination.

Funding for the project comes from various sources. The Virgin Islands Legislature provided appropriations through Act 8861, which allocates $1,434,950 from the Community Facilities Trust Fund to the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) for pre-construction soft costs. Additionally, Acts 8787 and 9068 provide $17 million and $6 million, respectively, for dredging activities. Further funding for the Charlotte Amalie Harbor dredging project will be obtained through VIPA marine bonds, which will be repaid by pledging the Authority’s recently increased port dues. The cruise lines pay this fee directly to the Port Authority on a per-passenger basis.

VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe expresses sincere appreciation to the Bryan/Roach Administration and the Virgin Islands Legislature for their ongoing support in funding and advancing this vital project. He also extended his gratitude to federal partners, consultants, officials from WICO and Yacht Haven Grande, and the VIPA staff who contributed significantly throughout the process.

Contracting and pre-construction activities are expected to begin immediately, with construction anticipated to commence within the next 180 days. The Contractor is required to schedule their dredging around the scheduled cruise calls, and the work is not anticipated to impact cruise traffic to St. Thomas.

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