BVI Secures Trademarks to Protect Its Sailing Brand
The British Virgin Islands has secured trademark protection for three sailing-focused brands, reinforcing its position as a premier Caribbean sailing destination.
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The British Virgin Islands (BVI) has secured 10-year trademark protection for three sailing-related brands, including “The British Virgin Islands – Sailing Capital of the World™,” reinforcing its identity as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations.
Cruise the Capital!
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) secured new trademark protections last fall designed to strengthen the territory’s long-established position in the global sailing market, according to the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission.
Three Sailing Brands Now Protected
Three trademarks have been registered for a 10-year term, backdated to May 7, 2024:
- The British Virgin Islands – Sailing Capital of the World™
- British Virgin Islands – The Undisputed Sailing Capital of the Caribbean™
- The British Virgin Islands – Sailing Capital of the Caribbean™
The registrations provide legal protection for branding built around the territory’s renowned sailing attributes, including:
- Reliable year-round trade winds
- Short, line-of-sight passages
- Sheltered anchorages
- Well-developed marine infrastructure
Strengthening the BVI’s Global Identity
“These trademarks are a powerful step in protecting our identity and strengthening our position in the international market,” said Clive McCoy, director of the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission, headquartered in Road Town, Tortola. “They ensure that travellers, sailors, and partners continue to associate the BVI with sailing excellence.”
According to McCoy, the new trademarks will become a central part of the territory’s international marketing and promotional campaigns, reinforcing sailing as the cornerstone of the destination’s tourism economy.
More Than a Charter Destination
With more than 60 islands and cays, the British Virgin Islands supports one of the Caribbean’s most diverse marine tourism industries.
The sector includes:
- Bareboat charters
- Crewed yacht charters
- Powerboating
- Sailing regattas
- International yachting events
- Luxury resorts
- Private villas
- A growing meetings and incentives market
For decades, the BVI’s protected waters, predictable sailing conditions, and extensive charter infrastructure have made it one of the most popular cruising destinations in the Caribbean.
Looking Ahead
By securing trademark protection for its signature sailing brands, the British Virgin Islands is taking legal steps to preserve and strengthen one of its most valuable tourism assets.
The move reinforces the territory’s commitment to remaining synonymous with world-class sailing for charter guests, cruisers, racers, and yacht owners alike.
Carol Bareuther has written for ALL AT SEA since 2004.
