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DFW facilitates planning, construction, repairs, and renovations to both public and private boating access points within the territory, through different grant funding opportunities. The Boating Access grant (Sport Fish Restoration) aims at providing free facilities for all recreational boaters to use, while the Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) helps fund projects for both both public and private use.
These funds support DFW’s long-term goal of providing safe and well-maintained access to water use and recreation for the Virgin Island residents and visitors alike. We recognize the importance of community engagement in public-use projects and welcome feedback and suggestions regarding boating access. Contact us by phone or stop by one of our office locations!
Hull Bay Boat Ramp – Designs for the new and updated Hull Bay boat ramp can be found here. The division is currently working on putting the project out to solicit bids for the project.
Molasses Pier Boat Ramp – The division is currently in the process of acquiring vendors to complete the renovations to the southern ramp at Molasses Pier. This will bring both loading/offloading ramps back into operation at the site.
ADA Loading Structure at Frederiksted Boating Access Facility – The division is determined to provide access to all persons wishing to participate in boating activities throughout the territory, by working to update facilities making them compliant with ADA laws.
Altona Lagoon Boating Access Facility – Repairs to this boating access facility will commence shortly. Upgrades to the facility include the addition to fenders throughout the docking area.
Ada Kayak Launches – The division is currently planning for the design, permitting, and installation of several adaptive kayak launches throughout the territory. Within the next couple years, it is the division’s goal to have installed at least two kayak launches on St. Croix, Sat. Thomas, and St. John. With one being installed on Water Island.
Upgrades to Current Boating Access Facilities – All current facilities will be upgraded with fenders, lightening, signage, ADA loading structure (at locations with adequate space), and parking.
Fish Cleaning Stations – Currently, the division has acquired a vendor to purchase and install fish cleaning stations throughout popular fishing sites within the territory.
Frederiksted Boating Facility – Removal and replacement of metal decking grids on dock. Since their installation at the end of 2018, the metal grid decking has started to deteriorate. The division will be working on replacing it with materials better suited for the marine elements.
Increase Parking at Altona Lagoon – Being a highly used facility on St. Croix, there is an increasing need for adequate parking for both trailers and visitors to the site. The division is in the process of designing and construction of more parking for both boaters and visitors to use.
Frederiksted Boating Access Facility – Routine maintenance was completed to the facility in FY 2024. It included removal and replacement of all wood skirting, beams, cleats, solar powered lights, and reflectors. Additionally, the associated trailer parking area was restriped and signage installed.
Gallows Bay Loading/Offloading Dock – A bid for renovations to this access point was executed and completed in FY 2024. Renovations included replacement of all wooden beams, skirting, decking, signage, reconstruction of pilings, cleats, and construction of access ramp at dock entrance.
DFW maintains 22 transient moorings in Christmas Cove, St. Thomas. This area is off the west coast of Great St. James, an offshore cay located within the St. Thomas East End Reserves (STEER). STEER is a marine protected area with specific rules and regulations in place to protect the marine environment. These transient moorings are essential to environmental protection by providing a secure option for boaters while minimizing damage to coral and seagrass communities. These moorings decrease the destructive use of anchoring practices. The moorings received major repairs in 2017 and yearly maintenance since.
