Current requirement for non-U.S. citizens* wanting to gain entry to the U.S. Virgin Islands by way of a non-commercial vessel--for example a private sailboat--is that he or she must have a visa. (Note: if you come by way of a commercial vessel--for example, by plane or ferry-- a valid passport will still suffice for non-U.S. citizens.)
This may cause unexpected inconveniences for boats being delivered by non-U.S. citizens for the International Rolex Regatta, which runs March 28-30, 2008 in St. Thomas, USVI. The normal procedure is for the boat and its crew clear thru the Customs Office in either Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas or Cruz Bay St. John, VI, before proceeding to Cowpet Bay (STYC). However, if a non-U.S. crewmember is aboard without a visa, he or she and the boat will be turned away.
"A solution for anyone without visa is to re-route to West End, Tortola, in the British Virgin Islands," said International Rolex Regatta Co-Chair John Sweeney, " and take the 20 minute ferry ride to the St. John Customs Office. Since you came by commercial ferry, the customs office will stamp your passport and allow you to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands or even to re-enter at St. John aboard the private vessel--but you must have the documentation saying that you've been cleared."
For additional information, contact John Sweeney at 340-998-2754 or Bill Canfield at the St. Thomas Yacht Club, 340-775-6320.
Non-U.S. Citizens
*This does not apply to BVI residents.
Other Visitors to the 2008 International Rolex Regatta are reminded that it is their responsibility to take care of necessary passport and visa issues.
U.S. Citizens
Visitors to the 2008 International Rolex Regatta, who are U.S. citizens returning directly from a U.S. territory do not need to present a passport.
The address of the U.S. Government 's relevant website is: travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html
A local contact, in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands is: Ms. Samuel, at (340) 774-2510 ext. 229
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