U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — From the deep-water anchorage of St. Thomas to the historic pier of St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands is currently hosting one of the most significant maritime gatherings in its history. Combining luxury tourism with elite naval defense, the territory is the center of the Caribbean stage today.
The Statistics
- Total Major Vessels: 7 (5 Cruise Ships, 2 U.S. Navy Warships)
- Estimated Visitors: 15,500 Cruise Passengers
- Estimated Service Members: 6,200 Sailors and Marines
- Total Economic Influx: An estimated $2.8M in single-day direct spending across both islands.
ST. THOMAS: The Heavy Hitters
In St. Thomas, the harbor is a “who’s who” of modern engineering. While the primary docks are packed with “floating resorts,” the world’s most advanced warship keeps watch from the outer harbor.
- USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78): Anchored in the Crown Bay/Hassel Island area. As the world’s largest aircraft carrier, its 1,100-foot frame requires deep-water anchorage. Sailors are being shuttled to shore for R&R after months of high-intensity operations under Operation Southern Spear.
- The “Big Four” Cruise Ships: Icon of the Seas, Disney Treasure, and Celebrity Beyond are docked at WICO, while the Norwegian Aqua holds the line at Crown Bay.
ST. CROIX: The “West End” Guard
In Frederiksted, the scene is more intimate but deeply symbolic of the island’s dual role as a destination and a strategic hub.
- USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116): This Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is currently sharing the north side of the Frederiksted Pier. Named after a Medal of Honor hero, the ship provides an Aegis missile “shield” for the territory.
- MS Allura: Oceania Cruises’ newest luxury gem sits on the south side of the pier. Passengers spent the day enjoying the Frederiksted waterfront, mere yards away from the Navy’s most advanced strike technology.
🚢 St. Thomas Harbor Guide (January 21, 2026)
- WICO Dock (Havensight): Hosting the Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean), Disney Treasure, and Celebrity Beyond.
- Crown Bay Dock: Hosting the Norwegian Aqua.
- Outer Harbor: The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is anchored offshore due to its massive 100,000-ton displacement.
- Visitor Impact: Approximately 14,500+ cruise guests plus thousands of Navy service members on liberty.
A New Maritime Policy?
Observant locals noted that today marks a departure from previous months. In late 2025, Navy vessels typically moved to sea whenever a cruise ship was scheduled to dock. Today, they are sharing the pier. This “Joint Occupancy” suggests a high level of confidence in the security of the territory following the conclusion of major regional operations earlier this month.
Editor’s Note: The Virgin Islands Free Press reminds all boaters that a 200-yard exclusion zone is in effect for both the Hudner in St. Croix and the Ford in St. Thomas. Drone activity is strictly prohibited and subject to immediate neutralization by local and federal authorities.
