Updated: December 27, 2021
As one of the few locations continuously open to travelers since the early days of COVID, we continue to make sure that our guests have all of the most up-to-date information. Below are some things that you should know about visiting St Croix and the US Virgin Islands for the 2021/2022 Winter season.
As of January 3, 2022 and for at least the next 30 days, Regardless of vaccination status, all domestic travelers (orginating from the US mainland or US Territories) ages 5 and up arriving in the US Virgin Island are required to present a COVID-19 negative test result (PCR or Antigen) obtained within 72-hours of commencement of travel to the US Virgin Islands. This includes travelers who were fully vaccinated in the US Virgin Islands. Test results must be uploaded to the USVI Travel Portal within 72-hours of commencement of travel in order to obtain clearance via a green QR code.
Travel clearance is issued in the form of a green QR code from the USVI Travel Portal. You may be required to show this at check-in prior to boarding the plane. You will be required to show your green QR code upon arrival in the US Virgin Islands.
Travelers should receive a response from the Travel Screening Portal within 48 hours of submission. Travelers who fail to use the Travel Screening Portal may be denied boarding.
The good news is that most all business in the US Virgin Islands are open with COVID-19 protocols and some restrictions in place. You’ll find most all St Croix restaurants and bars open – including some exciting new ones! Local live music is available at many venues across St Croix. Reservations are always recommended at local restaurants as they are open at 75% capacity to allow for social distancing. With many of the island’s restaurants open-air establishments – dining out isn’t a lot different these days. Just wear your mask when you’re not seated at the table.
No Mask, No Service. Masks are required to be worn inside all public spaces including airports, stores, restaurants, lobbies, taxis, etc. When seated at restaurants, masks may be removed. When you’re out on the beach, hiking or enjoying one of our outdoor parks, masks may be removed. There is a first time fine of $50 and subsequent fines of $100 for violating this mandate.
Social Distancing of at least six feet away from other people that are not of the same household is encouraged whenever possible. When hitting one of our many beaches, there’s always plenty of room to set yourselves up away from other groups.
COVID-19 Travel Tips
Travelers should must upload negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR results to the usvitravelportal.com prior to arriving on St Croix. You may be denied boarding without certification from the USVI Travel Portal. Upon arrival on St Croix, all passengers are required to go through screening after disembarking from the plane and prior to heading to the baggage carousel. You will again be required to present your original negative COVID-19 Testand the green QR code clearance from the USVI Travel Portal. You can find the most up-to-date official travel requirements at USVIUpdate.com.
Wear a Mask. All airlines require masks to be worn while on board. We recommend checking with your airline for any specific requirements that they may have. Refer to the CDC for tips on how to select, wear and clean masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19
Sanitize Sanitize Sanitize! Wash your hands regularly and carry hand-sanitizer to use while you are traveling or out and about on the island. You may also want to carry Clorox or other sanitizing wipes to clean arm rests, grab door knobs or wipe down other surfaces.
One of the perks of the islands is, of course, that we have summer year-round and outdoor activities abound. There are plenty of places and spaces for you to practice social distancing while enjoying your vacation. Vacation villas, like the collection at Vacation St Croix, are also a great way to enjoy your vacation while maintaining some distance from others. You have your own private pool and fully equipped house to relax and enjoy for the duration of your stay.
There are still plenty of tours and things to do that are operating under current guidelines with plenty of fresh air. Ride horses on the beach or head out to Buck Island for a snorkeling trip with Caribbean Sea Adventures or one of the many other boats headed that way. If you prefer to keep your head under water, head out scuba diving with one of our local PADI Scuba operators and they’ll guide you to the best spots.
Want to know what’s happening while you will be here? Be sure to follow the St Croix Calendar for live music, events and more.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to St Croix and the US Virgin Islands. Please be respectful while you are here and help to protect our community from the virus in the same way you would protect your family at home.
