Nanny Cay Begins $30–40M Expansion
Nanny Cay has broken ground on a $30–40 million marina expansion that will add 112 slips, a region-leading Travelift capable of hauling 60–80ft catamarans, and facilities to berth yachts up to 165ft. The three‑phase project—to be completed over three years—promises 91 jobs, a marine training hub with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, and new visitor amenities aimed at boosting the BVI’s yachting and tourism sectors.
Nanny Cay has officially broken ground on a $30 million to $40 million expansion of its marina, a development government and industry leaders say will strengthen the British Virgin Islands’ standing as a premier Caribbean yachting centre. Wheatley, Governor Daniel Pruce, Deputy Premier and Minister of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Hon.
Julian Fraser, Nanny Cay executives and marine stakeholders attended Friday’s ceremony on site to mark the start of the project’s development phase. The expansion will add 112 new slips designed for large catamarans, powerboats and mega yachts up to 165 feet, alongside increased yard space for servicing and maintenance.
A custom-built Marine Travelift — described as among the largest in the region — will enable the marina to haul 60-, 70- and 80-foot catamarans, meeting growing demand from larger vessels visiting or based in the BVI. “This expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to improving facilities for the BVI’s marine community and strengthening Nanny Cay’s position as the heart of Caribbean yachting,” said Cameron McColl, chairman of Nanny Cay.
General Manager Miles Sutherland-Pilch said the new lift and berths will improve safety and efficiency while maintaining the high level of service customers expect. Premier Wheatley called the project “the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the story of the Virgin Islands,” noting it is the first of three phases in a broader redevelopment of Nanny Cay Resort and Marina scheduled for completion over three years.
Officials say the development will create 91 jobs and establish a marine training hub in partnership with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, expanding local skills in maritime trades. Plans also include visitor-focused amenities such as a beach, restaurants, a luxury pool and beach bar, a retail village, dedicated space for the Royal BVI Yacht Club’s dinghy program, and classrooms for HLSCC maritime training.
Nanny Cay, host of the annual BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival, first unveiled expansion plans in 2024; supporters expect the completed project to boost capacity, service capability and the territory’s competitiveness for global yachting traffic. Photo credits: Alastair Abrehart/Broadsword PR, Alex Turnbull, Michael Winter Jr.
Primary source: JTV