By the Caribbean Journal staff

In a massive boost for the tourism fortunes of the island of St John, the Westin St John Resort Villas has officially reopened its doors.

The reopening comes 16 months after Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck the USVI, leading to a large-scale reconstruction effort.

A villa room.

The property, set on Great Cruz Bay in St John, instantly becomes the premier property open on the island, which has already seen the return of boutique hotels like the Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel and Estate Lindholm, among others.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our associates’ dedication in getting The Westin St John Resort Villas ready for our owners and guests,” said Samuel Hugli, general manager of the resort. “Each associate took on the hard work of getting the resort back to its original splendor, even though they and their families and friends were greatly affected by the storms.”

It’s a mix of one, two and three-bedroom villas and townhomes featuring up to 2,850 square feet of interior space.

Every villa has full kitchen appliances, washer and driers, signature Westin beds and  private balconies, among other amenities.

Amenities at the resort range from a spectacular beach to a pool to the new Mango Deli coffee shop to the waterfront eatery called Snorkels.

Snorkels at night.

For years, the Westin and Caneel Bay were the island’s two halo hotels; Caneel Bay is still in the comeback process. Caneel’s return date is still unannounced.

It’s the second Marriott property to reopen in the Virgin Islands since the storm, following last year’s relaunch of the Marriott Frenchman’s Cove in St Thomas.

“The resort looks spectacular,” said Hugli said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to be back providing Caribbean paradise to our owners and guests. We’re even happier that our islands are recovering and thriving.”

For more info, visit the Westin St John.