The 12 cents stamp depicts the launching of the sloop New Idea, built at Fat Hog's Bay, Tortola, Virgin Islands in 1954 by Richard Stout. This craft is of 22 gross tons and is owned by Mr. J. R. O'Neal of Road Town, Tortola, Mr. Evermond Rabsatt and Mrs. Victoria Rabsatt, both of Fat hog's Bay. Sloops are largely responsible for transport and communications between the several islands making up the group and neighbouring groups with the result that boatbuilding is a minor industry of the colony. Sloops, such as that shown on the stamp, are built with frames made from local hardwood but the planks are imported.
SG156 Sea Breezes 8/57