Stakeholders Invited to CRVL Meeting
The Ministry of Finance is inviting maritime operators, service providers and community members to an External Stakeholder Meeting on the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing (CRVL) regime on Tuesday, 7 April at 5:00 p.m. at Maria’s by the Sea, with a live stream available for those who cannot attend in person. Financial Secretary Jerimiah Frett said the session will discuss recent amendments to the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act, 1992, and other options to improve the maritime sector; he urged all stakeholders to make a special effort to participate, according to the Government of the Virgin Islands.
The Ministry of Finance will host an External Stakeholder Meeting on the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing (CRVL) regime on Tuesday, 7 April at 5:00 p.m. at Maria’s by the Sea, the Government of the Virgin Islands has announced. The meeting is intended to maintain ongoing dialogue on key maritime matters and to update the industry and wider community about recent legal and regulatory developments affecting commercial recreational vessels, the Government said.
A live stream will be available so residents who cannot attend in person can follow proceedings and provide input. Financial Secretary Jerimiah Frett encouraged broad participation and urged all stakeholders to make a special effort to attend. “The meeting will bring together professionals from across the public and private sector,” Mr.
Frett said in a Government statement, adding that officials want to hear stakeholders’ views and “give the wider community a seat at the table.” The statement also said the meeting will cover recent amendments to the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act, 1992, as well as other options to continue improving the maritime sector.
Central to the discussion are amendments to the CRVL Act that the Government brought into force on 1 June 2025, which were designed to streamline commercial recreational operations and raise safety standards. According to the Government, the changes make it mandatory for captains of larger vessels to be licensed and certified, while aiming to balance operational freedom for operators with regulatory measures that strengthen the BVI’s standing as a premier sailing destination.
For local businesses and residents, the amended Act has practical implications. Charter companies, private operators offering paid excursions, marinas, insurers and training providers may need to adjust compliance processes, ensure staff hold required certifications, and review vessel documentation and safety procedures.
Government officials have stressed that the licensing measures are intended to protect passengers and preserve the Territory’s reputation for safe, high-quality maritime tourism. Attendees are encouraged from a wide cross-section of the maritime community, including captains and crew, tour operators, marina managers, marine safety officers, insurance representatives and community advocates.
The Ministry says participants can expect updates on implementation and enforcement approaches, and opportunities to raise concerns or suggest improvements to how the new rules are applied. For additional information, stakeholders can contact the Department of Information and Public Relations at bmckelly@gov.vg.
International media enquiries may be directed to BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com. Residents may call the Government of the Virgin Islands at (284) 468-3701 or WhatsApp (284) 468-9760 to learn how to access the live stream or book appointments with government departments via the virtual booking system, the Government noted.
The Government said it looks forward to robust participation as it works to safeguard safety, support maritime businesses and sustain the BVI’s position as a leading sailing destination.
Primary source: BVI Government