Mariners planning to secure a storm berth in Hurricane Hole, St. John, USVI, should take note: applications for the 2026 hurricane season are now open, with a firm submission deadline of May 15, 2026.
Managed by Virgin Islands National Park and the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, Hurricane Hole has long been regarded as one of the most secure natural hurricane refuges in the Caribbean. Its deeply indented mangrove-lined bays provide exceptional protection from wind and surge, while the surrounding hills help deflect heavy gusts. Historically, vessels properly secured within Hurricane Hole have weathered major storms—including direct hurricane impacts—with significantly lower risk than those left in open anchorages.
Because of that reputation, demand for storm moorings here remains consistently high.
Boaters who held storm permits in 2025 and want to retain their same berth must submit a renewal application. If a vessel changed ownership over the past year, the new owner will need to renew the existing permit in order to keep that berth.
Applications are available at the National Park Service Visitor Center in Cruz Bay or can be requested via email. As in 2025, the park will use its Special Use Permit system and is continuing to waive permit fees.
Completed applications must be received by May 15 via email, mail (arriving by the deadline), or in person at the Visitor Center during business hours.
For any moorings not renewed, a virtual drawing will be held on May 22 at 5:30 p.m. to assign remaining berths. Applicants must submit by the May 15 deadline to be eligible, and successful entrants will be notified by phone.
For cruisers spending hurricane season in the northeastern Caribbean, a berth in Hurricane Hole can be a key part of a broader storm plan—so if you’re hoping to secure one, don’t miss the deadline.
For more information or to request an application, contact: VIIS_Storm_Permits@nps.gov
