St. Eustatius — the tiny Dutch Caribbean island better known as Statia — has a big anniversary coming, and it is chartering a cruise ship to help house everyone who wants to be there. The Victory I, a 95-stateroom vessel, has been booked by the island's government to serve as a floating hotel from November 10 to 17, 2026, during the First Salute 250 commemorations.
Why the fuss? On November 16, 1776, the American brig Andrew Doria sailed into Statia's harbour flying the flag of the newly declared United States and fired a salute. Fort Oranje fired one back, and that cannon exchange is widely regarded as the first formal acknowledgement of the American flag by a foreign power — a genuinely significant moment for such a small island, and a point of pride that Statia has never let go of.
Exactly 250 years later, the island will mark the date with Statia Week, culminating in Statia Day on November 16. Expect a programme built around the island's history, culture and its long-standing international connections. The Victory I will be stationed at Statia throughout the week, with one scheduled detour: a day trip to St Maarten on November 11 to collect more guests before returning that evening.
Rates start from $2,750 per room for up to two guests for the seven-night stay, so it is a premium option — but on an island with a very limited number of hotels and guesthouses, a floating hotel is a clever fix. Statia Government Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam said the charter adds capacity so more people who feel connected to the island's story can witness the moment where it actually happened.
For travellers, this is a rare combination: a milestone commemoration you can attend in person, in a destination that sees far fewer visitors than its neighbours. Statia itself rewards the effort — Fort Oranje still stands above the capital Oranjestad, the waters around the island are a marine park popular with divers, and the Quill, a dormant volcano, offers hiking with panoramic views. If you are of American heritage or simply drawn to Revolutionary-era history, standing on the ramparts where the first salute was returned, 250 years to the day, is the kind of travel moment that does not come around twice.
Book early if this appeals. Accommodation on Statia is scarce at the best of times, and a commemorative week like this will stretch it further — the Victory I charter exists precisely because demand will outstrip the island's beds.