The Destination Yacht Show
Yachting Capital of the World
Home to the greatest yachting infrastructure in the Caribbean. Yachting capital of the world, the U.S. Virgin Islands offers a destination for all those looking to own yachts and to charter yachts. Launched in 2024, the show was an emblematic event for private visitors who came to discover an outstanding concentration of cutting-edge boats and yachts both power and sail in the thriving charter community that is America’s Caribbean Paradise.
World Class Facilities
“We are excited to launch a show at one of the world's top super yacht marinas in the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands, an unparalleled cruising destination. When given the opportunity to showcase the best in boating, it's impossible to refuse, and I'm confident that this show will be a resounding success.” Kevin Murphy former Miami Boat Show's Strictly Sail Manger for the National Marine Manufacturers Association. 2024
Boat Manufacturers
Meeting the Global Demand of the Caribbean
Premium Exhibiting Accessible by Yacht Transport
VIBE offers its exhibitors an exclusive VIP boutique event empowering you to showcase your products and services in ways that go beyond the norm, in a world-class superyacht marina venue. Yacht Haven Grande marina is a short sail from the Yacht Transport Dock to take international delivery of boats directly to St. Thomas, which saves money on the excessive cost of yacht transport to the USA.
Concentrated Value
VIBE provides a premier platform for engaging with a highly targeted audience of yacht enthusiasts. Attendees of VIBE are to be those serious about making a purchase, without the vast public element that attaches to National market yacht shows. Prospect sales clients can be given the VIP experience they deserve and be offered demo-sails to experience the thrill of setting sail from the show docks directly into one of the most desirable charter and cruising destinations in the world.
First Class Superyacht Marina Venue
At VIBE, we understand the importance of maximizing your presence and making the most of every opportunity. That’s why we’ve chosen the globally renowned top-rated super yacht marina, Yacht Haven Grande St Thomas, to be our venue. You can entertain your VIP guests on luxurious boats or in the exquisite local restaurants conveniently located on-site. The stunning surroundings and luxurious atmosphere will leave a lasting impression on your clients, setting the stage for successful business interactions.
Business Perks of the USVI
Sell boats that sail back to the States, or explore the lucrative charter operation market in the Virgin Islands. Buyers will be thrilled by the idea of acquiring vessels directly at the show, benefiting from no sales tax as well as cost savings on transportation and commissioning. Furthermore, the local government offers enticing incentives and tax benefits for conducting business in the Virgin Islands, making it an even more attractive proposition for your clients.
Experience the U.S. Virgin Islands
With hospitality being the forte of the U.S. Virgin Islands, events will naturally in rhythm with the Caribbean Culture offering a connection with the people of the territory and the reason to love being in the USVI. As an exhibitor at VIBE, we want to ensure that your experience goes beyond the show itself. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer you complimentary access to the exclusive Wine & Food Experience, a culinary extravaganza that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more! Discover the U.S. Virgin Islands #VISITUSVI
The Advantages of Selling & Chartering Yachts in the U.S. Virgin Islands
| Challenge | U.S. Virgin Islands Advantage |
|---|---|
| With few exceptions, foreign-built yachts must be imported before they can be offered for sale or charter to U.S. residents. Many yachts are ineligible to be omported because their engines do not comply with EPA emissions requirements | The U.S. Virgin Islands are outside the United States customs area, subject to a separate customs regime (19 C.F.R. § 101.1.) Foreign-built, non-imported yachts may be offered for sale or charter to U.S. residents in the U.S. Virgin Islands |
| The coastwise laws prohibit foreign-built and foreign-flagged yachts, even those have been imported, from carrying charter guests on a time or voyage charter in the United States | The coastwise laws do not apply to the U.S. Virgin Islands (46 U.S.C. §55101(b)(3)) Foreign-built and foreign-flagged yachts may carry charter guests in the U.S. Virgin Islands without having to use bareboat charters (See e.g., HQ H301336 (Apr. 15, 2019) (approving charter itineraries within the U.S. Virgin Islands and between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico)). |
| U.S. Documented yachts of less than 100 gross tons are generally allowed to carry no more than six passengers for hire. | In the U.S. Virgin Islands, yachts of less than 100 gross tons that comply with the MCA small commercial vessel code—also called the Blue or Yellow Code—are allowed to carry up to twelve passengers for hire (46 U.S.C. § 4105(b)). |
No other state or territory in the United States offers all these advantages.