That seems like an odd requirement.. A work permit allows one to "work".. which means getting paid for that work. I'm not sure why one would need that for working on their own boat.

I guess its just another money grab.. and potentially a loss of business depending on the cost and difficulty, because it may just get people to haul out in the USVI.

And does it just apply to a boat being hauled? What if they are working on it while in the water? If it only applies to hauled boats, I wonder why there's a difference?