Questions about boating in the USVI?

One thing about St Crois (and all the USVI) it won't take you long to know every sq mile of it. There just aren't that many. . .

It's a great place to visit. . . But. . .

I wouldn't buy a boat if I were you until I spent some time there. If all you have done has been in fresh water you are in for a really delightful treat. However, the seas around St Croix are nothing like any fresh water lakes (even Great Lakes, and certainly not Texas lakes) you have ever been in.

You are probably going to want a bigger fishing boat - and in fact, (believe it or not) you are probably going to convert to sail. . . Within sailing range of St Croix, you have lots and lots of wonderful Islands & Cays to explore. Lots & lots of spear fishing around all the Islands. The big game fish however run a bit off shore. My son & I in fact have caught a few Sail & Swords off our sailboats.

What you are soon to discover is that fuel & fresh (drinking) water is very expensive in the Islands. I 'for sure' suggest you spend some time there with the natives (and go out fishing) before buying a fishing boat. . .

Unemployment on STX is running 15%+ so I'd be fascinated to hear what opportunity.....

there are only two marinas for a small boat.St Croix Marine and Salt River Marina..see if they have room,first of all......

there are dozens of 20>25 foot boats desperately for sale...more on St Thomas.....look in the classifieds of the Virgin Islands Daily News or the Island Trader online

2 feet outside Christianstead Harbor or Salt River you are in the open Caribbean.....St Kitts is 150 miles upwind to the east, and beyond that nothing 'till Africa, so it can build up honkin good seas around here.......10-15 foot and 20 plus knots for weeks at a time in winter and if you break down and go adrift,there's nothing downwind and current until Mexico, 20 days away......Coast Guard is in Puerto Rico, 90 miles out......

you need a good seaworthy boat, but the dorado and tuna and mahi are exceptional.....

bring money and buy here...you'll have abetter chance at a slip and a mechanic as opposed to paying another 5k to ship in.....

VI Gamefishing Club and / or the people at Loveland Travel can give you more info.....

I have lived in St. Croix for 8years, and my dad goes fishing 3 or 4 times a week. Fishing is good both on and off shore