VIPA and Crowley Sign New 10-Year Agreement; Deal Praised for Boosting Economy, Saving Jobs

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA — In an important development for the U.S. Virgin Islands' maritime sector, the V.I. Port Authority and Crowley Maritime have inked a new 10-year agreement ensuring continued operations in the USVI.

The contract signing, held in Jacksonville, Florida, on Tuesday, was the culmination of 10 months of intense negotiations between VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe, other Port Authority officials, and Crowley executives. The signing ceremony marks a continuation of the relationship between the two entities, which had faced uncertainty and risked the potential redundancy of 65 local employees.

The agreement confirms Crowley's commitment to the USVI, where the company operates with a substantial workforce involved in operations, warehousing, and various other services. This collaboration is part of Crowley's larger operation as a leading maritime, energy, and logistics solutions company, with $3.4 billion in annual revenues, over 170 vessels, and approximately 7,000 global employees.

During the ceremony, Crowley executives underscored the importance of the agreement for both their business and the USVI, aligning with the company's purpose of making positive contributions to people and the planet. The deal is seen as a strategic advancement, particularly for Crowley's Caribbean island services, which include a 10-day direct sailing from Port Everglades and a network of offices and terminals in St. Thomas and St. Croix.