ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands — Crown Bay Marina is starting a reconfiguration project that will add three "D" Dock Annex slips to accommodate the increasing number of megayachts coming into the area. The new design is scheduled for completion prior to the 2000-2001 yachting season.


"A booming economy has triggered the construction of luxury yachts that are bigger than what was the norm when Crown Bay Marina was built," said Carol Dudley, director of operations for Crown Bay Marina. "We are not enlarging the marina; we're merely reconfiguring our dock space to accommodate a wider range of modern yachts."


Crown bay Marina is located on approximately five landscaped acres. It is a full-service, 96-slip facility that can accommodate vessels from 25 to 200 feet long, with drafts up to 15 feet. The reconfiguration will increase the megayacht slip count from 13 to 16, which is a 16-percent capacity increase.


"The Crown Bay Marina is often referred to as the 'Crown Jewel of the Caribbean' because it is not only the most beautiful, it also is the most professionally run marina in the Caribbean," said to Arlene Martel, public relations representative for the facility.


Martel explained that Crown Bay draws clients who demand superior service. "When people say jump, we jump," she said. "The marina promotes strong personal relations. Not only does the staff cater to the clients, but also to the captains and crew, personalizing service and often hosting activities to entertain crewmembers. Crews are often based there for very long periods of time, so the marina likes to make it a pleasant and accommodating experience for them as well."


Some of the most recent megayachts to visit the marina include Jamaica Bay and Gallant Lady and Excellence, which currently is based there. According to Dudley, the marina is already getting reservations for the upcoming season. Megaychts can't fit into just any slip, so reservations need to be made early because of the needs for draft and space.


Additional information about Crown Bay Marina can be found at www.crownbay.com or by calling (340) 774-2255.