VIBE returns for its third year: The Caribbean's boutique boating exhibition set for May 14-16, 2026

Yachts on show @ VIBE 2025 at IGY's Yacht Haven Grande St. Thomas © MediaBoostVI

The Virgin Islands Boating Exhibition (VIBE) returns for its highly anticipated third edition, May 14-16, 2026, at IGY's award-winning Yacht Haven Grande Marina, St. Thomas.

Organized by the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association (VIPCA), VIBE has quickly earned its place as the must-attend boutique boat show of the Caribbean by blending luxury, exclusivity, authentic Virgin Islands culture, and direct access to the region's world-class cruising grounds.

Now in its third year, VIBE continues to elevate the boat show experience. Curated with input from dealers, manufacturers, charter companies, and vendors, the show offers an intimate, business-forward environment where attendees can tour and demo the latest sail and power yachts right in the heart of 'America's Paradise.' VIBE is not just any boat show. This year, VIBE will display the full range of what the USVI has to offer - diving, fishing, sailing, watersports, and more.

"VIBE was created to showcase the very best in boating against the unmatched backdrop of the U.S. Virgin Islands," says Kennon Jones, VIPCA Executive Director. "As we enter our third year, the show has grown into a premier destination for yacht buyers, exhibitors, and industry leaders who value a tailored, Caribbean-centered experience."

U.S. Virgin Islands culture comes alive at VIBE - photo © MediaBoostVI

Unparalleled advantages for attendees and exhibitors

The U.S. Virgin Islands offers unparalleled advantages for exhibitors and attendees alike:

• Seamless Access: U.S. citizens can arrive passport-free, with direct flights from major gateway cities including New York, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, and Chicago. New, Southwest Airlines will launch daily nonstop service from Orlando (MCO) to St. Thomas (STT) beginning February 5, 2026, with service from Baltimore/Washington (BWI) starting February 7, 2026.
• World-Class Venue: IGY's Yacht Haven Grande Marina, named Superyacht Marina of the Year five times since 2016, provides state-of-the-art dockage, fine dining, shopping, and a vibrant waterfront setting.
• Business-Friendly Benefits: With no sales tax, duty-free allowances, and robust EDC incentives, the USVI is one of the most attractive destinations for yacht sales and investment.
• ?Diverse Marine Industry: From charters to diving, fishing to watersports, the U.S. Virgin Islands has something for everyone! VIBE will display the full breadth of what these beautiful islands offer the marine industry.

VIBE is recognized as a key driver in reinforcing the USVI's status as the Caribbean's premier yachting hub. The event showcases the territory's blend of natural beauty, robust infrastructure, and business opportunities, positioning the islands as a leading destination for both yachting and investment. From exclusive yacht viewings and demo sails to networking with top charter operators around music and cultural events, VIBE delivers a high-touch, boutique-style show in a setting unlike any other.

For exhibitor, sponsor, and attendee information for the Virgin Islands Boating Exposition (VIBE), please visit vibe.vi

For information about the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association (VIPCA), visit www.vipca.org