The Golden Book of Sint Maarten - 2024

The Golden Book of

Sint Maarten AND NEIGHBORING ISLANDS www.goldenbooksxm.sx | 13th Edition - 2024

INVESTMENT TRADE TOURISM

SINT MAARTEN SAINT MARTIN SABA SINT EUSTATIUS ANGUILLA

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The Golden Book of

Sint Maarten AND NEIGHBORING ISLANDS 13th Edition 2024 www.goldenbooksxm.sx · emile@goldenbooksxm.sx

Thank you for visiting our new interactive website www.goldenbooksxm.sx By clicking on the logo of an advertisement or editorial article, you will be taken to the advertiser’s website.

INVESTMENT • TRADE • TOURISM A COMPREHENSIVE REFERENCE MANUAL FOR BUSINESSMEN AND WOMEN, INVESTORS AND TOURISTS SINT MAARTEN • SAINT MARTIN • ANGUILLA • SABA • SINT EUSTATIUS

Readers of the Golden Book of Sint Maarten are referred to the Government of Sint Maarten website: www.sintmaartengov.org

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten, 13th edition is published by:

MEDIA PUBLISHING INTERNATIONAL N.V. P.O. Box 409, Philipsburg, SINT MAARTEN (Dutch Caribbean) Tel: 1 (721) 527-5111

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TABLE OF CONTENTS THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN Preface from the Honorable Prime Minister of Sint Maarten....................... 8 The Council of Ministers........................................................................................ 9 The Parliament of Sint Maarten.......................................................................... 10 Country Sint Maarten Government Structure & Ministries........................ 11 Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary........................................................... 14

Map of the Island................................... 6

ST. MAARTEN MARINE TRADES ASSOCIATION (SMMTA)...............................19 SMMTA Board Welcome................22 St. Maarten Maritime Information....

28 Marina Information..........................40

GENERAL INFORMATION..66

Taxation.......................................... 100

About the Government of Sint Maarten.....................................70

Incentives....................................... 102 Financial Intelligence Unit........... 104

The Governor of Sint Maarten....74 The Institution of the Ombudsman..............................76

Financial Services......................... 106 Education System......................... 109

General Information.......................78 University of St. Martin............... 110 Contacts............................................80 Princess Juliana International Airport........................................... 112

Sail Away to Paradise.......................46

INVESTMENT GUIDE.........86

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta.......54

Business License..............................87

Port St. Maarten........................... 116

BDO St. Maarten.............................96

Telecommunication in St. Maarten..................................... 126 Bureau Telecommunications & Post.............................................. 128

© Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock.com

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Cover Image © Laurens Morel

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

TABLE OF CONTENTS TOURISM......................................................... 130 Philipsburg......................................................................... 132 Map of Philipsburg........................................................... 144 Simpson Bay..................................................................... 147 Map of Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, Maho, Mullet Bay..... 153 Maho Village...................................................................... 154 Cupecoy ‘The Riviera’.................................................... 155 St. Maarten Tourism Bureau.......................................... 156

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS................ 162 French Saint-Martin........................................................ 163 Map of Marigot & Grand Case..................................... 170 Saba.................................................................................... 173 St. Eustatius....................................................................... 180 Anguilla.............................................................................. 184

ADVERTISER’S INDEX.................................. 192

This book has been published by Media Publishing International N.V. Media Publishing International N.V. P.O. Box 409, Philipsburg, SINT MAARTEN (Dutch Caribbean) Tel: 1-721-527-5111 www.goldenbooksxm.sx General Manager & Publisher: Emile Cukier Email: emile@goldenbooksxm.sx Layout & Design: Estrelinda Rollan-Mc Quilkin - lindarollan@gmail.com © Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher.The publisher is not responsible for any error or omission, which may be only the result of an accident.

The publisher would like to extend thanks and appreciation to all those who contributed editorial material, information and photos for this edition.

2024 © Media Publishing International N.V.

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

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MAP OF THE ISLAND

Map of the Island © Media Publishing International N.V.

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

PREFACE FROM THE HONORABLE PRIME MINISTER OF SINT MAARTEN

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THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS TH

Hon. Egbert J. Doran Minister of Housing & Spatial Planning, Environment & Infrastructure/ Deputy Prime Minister

Hon. Ardwell M. R. Irion Minister of Finance

Hon. Silveria E. Jacobs Prime Minister/ Minister of General Affairs

Hon. Arthur H. L. Lambriex Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications Hon. Rodolphe E. Samuel Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports

Hon. Anna E. Richardson Minister of Justice

Hon. Omar E. C. Ottley Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour

Hon. Rene F. Violenus Minister Plenipotentiary, Sint Maarten House, The Hague, the Netherlands

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

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THE PARLIAMENT OF SINT MAARTEN There are 10 factions represented in the 15-member chamber of parliament (as of August 2023).

The 10 factions are the United Democrats (UD) which has one (1), Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Christophe Emmanuel (1) member, Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Akeem E. Arrindell (1) member, Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Grisha Heyliger Marten (1) member, Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Ludmila De Weever (1) member, Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Solange Duncan (1) member, United St. Maarten (US) Party Member of Parliament (MP) Chanel E. Brownbill (1) member, the National Alliance (NA) four (4) members, the Party for Progress (PFP) with two members (2), and the United People’s (UP) party with two members (2).

MEMBERS OF THE PRESIDIUM

Sidharth M. Bijlani (UP) President & Member of Parliament

William V. Marlin (NA) 1st Vice President & Member of Parliament

Rolando Brison (UP) 2nd Vice President & Member of Parliament

Grisha S. Heyliger-Marten (Independent) Member of Parliament

Melissa D. Gumbs (PFP) Member of Parliament

Ludmila de Weever (Independent) Member of Parliament

Raeyhon A. Peterson (PFP) Member of Parliament

Angelique J.G. Romou (NA) Member of Parliament

Akeem E. Arrindell (Independent) Member of Parliament

George C. Pantophlet (NA) Member of Parliament

Christophe T. Emmanuel (Independent) Member of Parliament

Hyacinth L. Richardson (NA) Member of Parliament

Chanel E. Brownbill (US Party/Substitute for suspended MP Claudius A. Buncamper) Member of Parliament

Solange L. Duncan (Independent) Member of Parliament Sarah A. Wescot-Williams (UD) Member of Parliament

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THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE & MINISTRIES

GOVERNOR GENERAL PARLIAMENT COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MINISTRY OF GENERAL AFFAIRS MINISTRY OF FINANCE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE,YOUTH & SPORTS MINISTRY OF HEALTH, SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & LABOUR MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ECONOMIC AFFAIRS,TRANSPORT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HOUSING, SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT, ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY Seat of Government: P.O. Box 943 Government Administration Building Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island Philipsburg Sint Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-2233 / 542-2534 / 542-2535 / 542-4300 / 542-4305

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

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CABINET OF THE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY

W

elcome to the Office of the Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten, also known as the St. Maarten House. The Minister

Plenipotentiary is the official, and permanent representation of the government of St. Maarten in the Netherlands. In this capacity the Minister Plenipotentiary forms part of the Kingdom Council of Ministers which consists of the Ministers of the Dutch government together with the Ministers Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten, Aruba and Curaçao.

OUR VISION The Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten in The Hague is driven to achieve excellence and will function as Ambassadors for St. Maarten through proper, diplomatic and professional representation.

OUR MISSION To realize and support the interests of the Government and citizens of St. Maarten in the Netherlands.

The St. Maarten House,The Hague, Netherlands

To build and promote a sustainable and developed country, that meets the needs of this generation and generations to come, which will lead to a prosperous and safe nation for all.

To represent in the Kingdom Council while maintaining the highest and most transparent standards.

To advocate economic opportunities on the island.

To inspire remigration to the island to build a stronger economy, by connecting people to tangible job opportunities To assist in building the best destination product.

OUR CORE VALUES

• Promotion of our country’s dignity in the Netherlands • Promotion of the full development of St. Maarteners in the Netherlands

• Acknowledge, strengthen and build engagement with the St. Maarten diaspora in the Netherlands

• Partnerships and alliances with municipalities, communities,

The Cabinet is further commissioned to handle in the best

institutions, embassies and businesses in the Kingdom of

interest of St. Maarten in aspects relating to:

the Netherlands and European Union

• political affairs; • economic affairs an EU; • development cooperation; • consular affairs; • education and cultural affairs.

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Contact: Prinsessegraccht 7, 2514 AN The Hague, Netherlands Tel: 070 215 6067 Email: info@kgmsxm.nl Web: kgmsxm.com

THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

© CathyRL /Shutterstock.com

ADES ASSOC TR

ION IAT

MAR IN E

ST. MAARTEN MARINE TRADES ASSOCIATION

S T. MAARTEN

MARIN E TRADES

SIN

infosmmta@gmail.com – yachtingstmaarten.com  S t . M a a r t e n M a r i n e Tr a d e s A s s o c i a t i o n

A S S O C I AT I O N

T M A A RT E N

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Ruth Peterkin /Shutterstock.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

yachtingstmaarten.com

CONTENTS © AreteShakedown

SMMTA BOARD WELCOME................................... 22 ST. MAARTEN MARITIME INFORMATION................ 28 MARINA INFORMATION......................................... 40 SAIL AWAY TO PARADISE....................................... 46 ST. MAARTEN HEINEKEN REGATTA........................ 54

Published by Media Publishing International N.V. P.O. Box 409, Philipsburg, SINT MAARTEN (Dutch Caribbean) Tel: 1-721-527-5111 www.goldenbooksxm.sx General Manager & Publisher: Emile Cukier Email: emile@goldenbooksxm.sx Layout & Design: Estrelinda Rollan-Mc Quilkin - lindarollan@gmail.com Cover photo © Ruth Peterkin /Shutterstock.com

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© My SXM

SMMTA BOARD WELCOME WELCOME TO THE PREMIER MARITIME DESTINATION ST. MAARTEN! The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association was established in 1994 by visionary pioneers deeply entrenched in the maritime sector, and since then has pushed for innovation, collaboration, and growth within the Marine Industry. The Association, comprised of dedicated members, diligently works toward fostering a thriving maritime environment that embraces sustainability, innovation, and excellence.

The goals of the Association are to promote the Marine Trades Industry on St. Maarten and the interests of those involved and to also support and regulate the recreational, and commercial activities pertaining to the sea and public waters.

In addition, the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association hosts a diverse array of events throughout the year. From the exhilarating Crew Year’s Eve Party in January to the captivating Lagoon Festival in late March, these gatherings resonate with the vibrancy and passion that define our industry, as well as providing a platform for its members to showcase its products and services.

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yachtingstmaarten.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

As a favored haven for cruisers and yachts, St. Maarten boasts an array of benefits that capture the hearts of maritime enthusiasts. Pristine waters, reliable and high quality marine services, worldclass marinas, and a welcoming atmosphere, are just a few of the reasons vessels gravitate toward St. Maarten’s shores.

St. Maarten’s marinas, more than docking points, are gateways to a world of luxury, comfort, and unparalleled service. Offering state-of-the-art facilities and professional staff, these marinas provide a safe and secure haven for your vessel while ensuring all your needs are met. Whether you seek comprehensive maintenance, exquisite dining, or leisurely relaxation, our marinas are your home away from home.

St. Maarten emerges as an idyllic haven for mariners of all kinds. With its strategic location, this enchanting island beckons cruisers and boat owners to drop anchor on both the Dutch and French sides, offering a number of anchorage options that cater to everyone. Seamlessly blending convenience with camaraderie, the island’s marine services are easily accessible, fostering a sense of community that can be felt all over the island.

St. Maarten stands ready to cater to vessels in need of maintenance, repairs, and provisioning, ensuring that every vessel embarks on its next voyage in optimal condition. From sail repairs to rigging upgrades, finding boat parts and upgrades, and even restocking boat pantries, the island’s commitment to quality service is evident at every turn.

With its strategic location and world-class amenities, it serves as a central point for both local and international maritime activities. Sailors, yacht crews, and enthusiasts converge here to connect, learn, and explore the rich tapestry of the marine industry.

The St. Maarten Marine Industry is considered a powerhouse in the local economy, creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting businesses, all contributing to the thriving economy of the island.

Beyond its nautical allure, St. Maarten invites travelers to immerse themselves in the captivating island culture, making it an irresistible destination for those seeking both maritime adventure and an unforgettable on-shore experience. With open arms, we welcome sailboats, yachts, crew members, and all who share an affinity for the maritime world. Come experience a realm where azure waters meet unparalleled hospitality, innovation, and endless possibilities.

Yours in maritime spirit, The Board of the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

SMMTA Board Welcome

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

© Edward Penagos

© Souleyman.T Photography

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SMMTA EVENTS

© Edward Penagos

SMMTA Board Welcome

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

ST. MAARTEN MARITIME INFORMATION

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Yacht Club Isle De Sol

CLEARING IN As the island of St. Maarten is half French and half Dutch, immigration procedures are different on each side of the island. Paperwork must be done upon arrival and departure on each side of the island.

CLEARING IN ON THE DUTCH SIDE All vessels arriving in or departing from St. Maarten waters must clear in and out with the Immigration Department. This can be done either in Great Bay or Simpson Bay. In addition to immigration clearance, all vessels entering Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon are required by law to clear in at the Lagoon Authority Collection Office situated in the Police Station just west of the Simpson Bay Bridge and pay the indebted Bridge, Harbor and Clearance Fees. All fees are immediately due and payable upon arrival.

The clearance fees are $5 for boats up to 99 gross tons, $10 for boats of 100 to 499 gross tons, $20 for boats of more than 500 gross tons. A fee is asked for boats staying at anchor. The bridge fees are payable on clearing out from the lagoon.

The office telephone number is +1(721) 545-3183 or via the Simpson Bay Police Station +1(721) 545-5500 Documents to present when clearing your vessel in:  the Clearance Documents of your last Port of Departure  the Immigration Clearance Documents  the Customs Clearance Documents  the Vessel Registry Document  Crew List All vessels have to receive clearance from Immigration, Customs and the Lagoon Authority before departing to their next harbor of destination.

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Theo Demanez - Office de tourisme de Saint Martin

CLEARING IN ON THE FRENCH SIDE Currently clearing in can be done in four places: at the commercial port of Galisbay (close to Marigot), at Marina Fort Louis or at one of the two chandleries in Marigot (Island Water World & L’ile Marine).

All are accessible by dinghy but the most convenient places to clear in for non-commercial vessels is probably the Marina or one of the chandleries. Present passports, original copies of boat documents and clearance from last port of departure.

Clearance fees vary a little bit between the mentioned locations, generally both marine stores only charge a few euro’s or ask for a donation for a good cause. There are however anchoring fees involved when anchoring right in front of Marigot in Marigot Bay. Besides that, you now also have the choice to pick up a mooring, also at a fee. For the up to date information please visit www.portdemarigot.com.

CUSTOMS & IMMIGRATION The island is a duty-free zone and therefore goods can be imported free of payment and formalities.

However, restricted goods such as drugs, firearms and ammunition, explosives and so on should be declared to the authorities when clearing in.

In general, visiting yachtsmen are permitted to stay on the island for a maximum period of three months. This will sometimes vary according to your nationality and so it is best to enquire when clearing in.

Visiting Crew members from countries on the visa required list, without a Dutch Caribbean Visa, or a Multiple Entry – Schengen, US or Canadian Visa, can partake in the visa waiver program through the services of a registered agent.

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St. Maarten Maritime Information

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

yachtingstmaarten.com

SAFETY AND SECURITY All fire arms, ammunition and explosives, chemicals and cash money (USD 11,000 or more) must be declared with Customs when clearing in. Firearms possession is only legal if declared and the owner has a legal permit of his/

Bay Lagoon from one side of the island to the other.

Although the channel across the lagoon can be transited by vessels with a draft of around six feet, yachts should proceed with caution as some shoaling in this area has occurred.

her country of origin and the arms are safely secured.

POLICE DOCK

In keeping with most Caribbean islands, drugs are illegal

The Police Dock situated in the channel of the Simpson

and the penalties for possession are severe.

Bay Bridge can only be used by dinghies that come to the Police Station for the services of the Police, Immigration,

BUOYAGE SYSTEM Both St. Maarten and St. Martin use the American ‘redright-returning’ buoyage system. Mariners should take care not to confuse the buoys when crossing the Simpson

Customs or the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority. It can be used for pickups and drop off’s but no tenders should be left here unattended for any length of time. It is also an active ferry dock.

BRIDGE INFORMATION SIMPSON BAY BRIDGE This is the main access into and out of Simpson Bay Lagoon from the Dutch side of the island. The Bridge is located in Simpson Bay and will accommodate vessels up to a maximum beam of 55 feet and a maximum draft of 17 feet. When the bridge is closed there is 8.6 feet clearance in the port channel and 8 feet clearance in the starboard channel. Note: Clearance may vary depending on the state of the tide.

The Simpson Bay Bridge can be reached on VHF Channel 12.

ENTRY PROTOCOL The Simpson Bay Bridge has a general entry queuing protocol established to facilitate the ease of movement within the lagoon. Please proceed INBOUND through the © Jessica Kirsh /Shutterstock.com

St. Maarten Maritime Information

Simpson Bay Bridge in the following order:

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association 1) Sailing Vessels and small Motor craft (no matter destination) 2) Vessels heading to the North side of the Causeway

infosmmta@gmail.com

The entry order is planned to facilitate the ease of transiting the bridge and the immediate area of the lagoon so that all vessels can move unencumbered.

3) Larger vessels heading to Simpson Bay Marina 4) Larger vessels heading to Yacht Club Port De Plaisance

Bridge Opening Schedule

5) Larger vessels heading to Palapa Marina

Inbound: 9.30am, 11.30am, 3pm and 5pm

6) All vessels heading to Yacht Club Isle De Sol

Outbound: 8.30am, 10.30am and 4pm

© Multiverse /Shutterstock.com

CAUSEWAY BRIDGE The Causeway Bridge, spanning the full width of Simpson Bay Lagoon. It features a two-lane swing bridge closer to the Cole Bay side to allow for vessels of all size to transit each direction simultaneously. In addition to scenic vistas, the Causeway offers a swift connection from the Airport to Marigot or Cole Bay, a bike and walking path as well as a lovely light display.

Bridge Opening Schedule: 8am, 10am and 3.30pm The Causeway Bridge can be reached on VHF Channel 12.

SPEED LIMIT In the bridge channel, fare ways and in the Lagoon a 5-mph speed limit is in force for all vessels. Anchorage zones and marinas fall under “no wake zones”. The buoyage system used is the “red-right-returning” American system.

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TRANSITING No anchorage is allowed in the fairways. The access fairway from sea to the bridge channel should always stay open. The inbound traffic should position their vessels alongside the fairway, so the outbound traffic has free passage to sea. Behind the airport strip in the lagoon there is a no-anchoring zone.

SPECIAL BRIDGE OPENINGS The opening times for the Simpson Bay Bridge and Causeway are listed here. For special bridge openings regarding the Causeway, vessels and brokers should contact their Marina or Agent.

HAILING All mariners must hail the Bridge Operator before transiting either Bridge on St. Maarten, to make your intentions clear. The Bridge Operators are standing by on VHF 12. Do not shift to another working channel until you have completed the passage of the Bridge.

St. Maarten Maritime Information

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

© Nenad Basic /Shutterstock.com

yachtingstmaarten.com

MARINE SERVICES St. Maarten / Saint Martin is well known for it’s extensive range of marine services. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, yacht owner, or simply a lover of the sea, this Caribbean island is equipped with a host of professional and reliable marine services to ensure your time on the water is nothing short of exceptional.

From state-of-the-art marinas offering world-class facilities to expert yacht repair, maintenance services and the largest Chandleries in the Caribbean, St. Maarten / Saint Martin provides a haven for boaters seeking top-notch care for their vessels. Experienced technicians, equipped with cutting-edge equipment, stand ready to address any maintenance or repair needs, ensuring your yacht is in optimal condition for smooth sailing.

For those looking to embark on new adventures, St. Maarten / Saint Martin offers a wide range of yacht charter services, allowing you to explore the surrounding turquoise waters at your leisure. Whether you desire a luxurious motor yacht, a sleek sailing vessel, or a thrilling catamaran, there are options to suit every preference and budget.

Additionally, marine provisioning services ensure that your culinary desires are met while at sea. From gourmet food and beverages to fresh produce and supplies, you can stock up on everything necessary for an indulgent and hassle-free journey.

With a focus on customer satisfaction and attention to detail, St. Maarten / Saint Martin’s marine services go beyond mere functionality. The island’s warm hospitality and friendly staff are dedicated to providing personalized assistance, ensuring your boating experience is seamless and memorable.

So, whether you’re docking at one of the island’s modern marinas, seeking boat repairs, chartering a yacht, or looking to enhance your provisioning experience, St. Maarten / Saint Martin’s marine services are here to cater to your every need, allowing you to make the most of your time on the water.

St. Maarten Maritime Information

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

ANCHORAGES

© Dock Maarten

SIMPSON BAY LAGOON This 12 square mile inland lagoon is one of the finest anchorages in the NE Caribbean and is serviced by more than half a dozen marinas as well as providing first rate moorings. The lagoon spans the Dutch/French borders and can be accessed either via the lift bridge in Simpson Bay or the lift bridge in Marigot Bay. Saint Martin is well known for its extensive range of marine related businesses and services. Many of those businesses are located alongside the borders of the lagoon or can easily be accessed from one of the several dinghy docks. Visit the website of the SMMTA (yachtingstmaarten.com) for more information.

SIMPSON BAY The eastern end of this large and popular bay provides a good, sheltered anchorage. There is a sandy beach and plenty of activity in the form of water sports, day boats and vessels entering and leaving the lagoon. The proximity of Princess Juliana Airport means that there is some disturbance from aircraft. However, the bay is close to what is called the Simpson Bay strip filled with good shopping, dining and nightlife spots.

GREAT BAY Great Bay is the main commercial port of St. Maarten, and is where one would ideally anchor if you want to visit Philipsburg. The outer part of the bay is about 30 feet deep, shoaling suddenly to just ten feet and then gradually to seven or so feet up to the beach. There are plenty of services, shopping, dining, etc. It is not a good anchorage when the wind is from the south or southeast and is certainly not a hurricane shelter.

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St. Maarten Maritime Information

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

yachtingstmaarten.com

OYSTER POND

BAIE DE MARIGOT

This well tucked-in lagoon on the eastern side of the

The small town of Marigot, capital of French St. Martin,

island spans the Dutch and French border (though the

lies along the shores of this fairly large, protected bay, it is

water is administered by the Dutch side). Access is via a

also the location of the main seaport for the French side.

marked channel through the reef and should be treated with caution. The water depth in the outer part of the pond is about 10 feet, falling to 3 feet towards the inner shores. Check your cruising guide for details including the sand bank in the center of the pond.

Close to the town quay there is now a large mooring field, consisting of nearly 75 moorings that can be picked up at a fee. On the outside of the mooring field there is still ample space to anchor for those that prefer their own anchor above a mooring and the entire area has easy

ORIENT BAY

access to the many shops and restaurants in this typically

Claiming to have the finest beach in the Caribbean, Orient

the area adjacent to the quay side and is especially worth

Bay also has a couple of good anchorages. One location

visiting for its splendid array of regional fruit, vegetables

is at Green Cay at the southern end of the bay and the

and spices. Simpson Bay Lagoon can be accessed from

other is at Pinel Island at the northern end.

the bay via the Sandy Ground Bridge. Close to the bridge

Provisioning is somewhat limited and requires a short dinghy ride to Cul de Sac due west of Pinel, followed by a ten-minute walk. The sea at the entrance to the bay can be very rough with large waves and so extra care must be taken. Be certain to consult your chart and cruising guide.

ANSE MARCEL Anse Marcel has a picturesque marina which lies at the head of a small bay. A channel, running alongside a nice beach, leads to the secluded marina of Port Lonvilliers.

There are two classy hotels and a handful of bars, restaurants, shops, a dive shop and a small chandlery. The whole complex is enclosed on the landward side by rocky hills affording a good deal of privacy.

BAIE GRAND CASE This wide bay with its long, curving sandy beach is a popular anchorage for those gastronomes eager to try out one or more of the numerous excellent restaurants for which Grand Case is famous. The long, main street of the village fronts onto the beach. In addition to the restaurants there are a number of good bars and a couple of food stores. The anchorage is generally good for overnight stays but can be choppy. It is advisable to exercise extra caution when securing your dinghy.

St. Maarten Maritime Information

French port. A colorful Caribbean market operates from

are several marine businesses. Once again, take extra precautions when securing your dinghy – particularly in the evenings.

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

MARINE EMERGENCY NUMBERS EMERGENCY 911

+1 (721) 542.222

PHILIPSBURG POLICE

+1 (721) 542.222

POLICE MUNICIPAL

+590 590 87.88.33

MARIGOT FIRE DEPT

+590 590 87.95.01

COAST GUARD

+1 (721) 543.7603

In the event of an emergency while at sea, yachtsmen that are in the vicinity of St. Maarten should use the emergency VHF Ch.16 or call St. Maarten Sea Rescue Service by dialing 199 or the Police at 911.

SEA RESCUE 199

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+1 (721) 542.4966 St. Maarten Maritime Information

© EarthScape ImageGraphy /Shutterstock.com

infosmmta@gmail.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

MARINA INFORMATION DOCK MAARTEN Dock Maarten Marina is located in Great Bay which is open to the Caribbean Sea and easy to navigate. We are a perfect match for pleasure boaters looking for a marina without passing through a bridge (and avoiding bridge fees!) as a stopover before leaving to St Barths, St kitts or Nevis or simply for visiting Philipsburg. We are the closest marina to the NC Wathey Cruise and Cargo Terminal which makes us equally attractive to commercial boats targeting the cruise shop market.

Dock Maarten is designed to cater to vessels of all sizes including the largest yachts in the world; many of which are too large to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

This Marina is located just 13,5 nautical miles (25 km) from Gustavia, St. Barths and is ideally suited to provide

© Dock Maarten

support services for yachts chartering in the North East Caribbean. info@dockmaarten.com | 721 542 5705 / 520 0225

ISLAND WATER WORLD Island Water World Marina is conveniently located on the Dutch side of the lagoon. It has 47 slips in total for varying sizes of boats, including 10 lifts. The main slips all have drinking water and 110 & 220 V power supply (60Hz). As the name suggests, the well-known and well stocked Island Water World Marine store is conveniently located on the premises. Besides the marine store the marina has the only fuel and water dock on the Dutch side of the lagoon, a compact yard and haul out facility for dinghy/tender storage and maintenance, propane refill service, bicycles that can be borrowed, shopping bus service (only in season), etc.

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© Island Water World

St. Maarten Maritime Information

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Simpson Bay Marina

SIMPSON BAY MARINA

Located in the heart of Simpson Bay, The

Conveniently positioned just inside the Simpson Bay Bridge having magnificent, extremely secure, and private surroundings. Our impressive facilities are designed to delight even the most discerning yachtsmen from around the globe. If there is anything that we can do to make your stay with us more comfortable, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Yacht Club at Isle de Sol offers 24 hour

sbm@igymarinas.com | 721 544 2408

© Yacht Club Isle de Sol

YACHT CLUB ISLE DE SOL security, gated entrance with a private bridge leading to 40 megayacht slips. Exclusively designed for the mega yacht industry while visiting St. Maarten, Yacht Club Isle de Sol accommodates yachts ranging from 80 to 320 feet with max 18 foot draft. Each concrete slip offers amenities that include grade A fuel, water, 220, 380, 480v single or 3-phase power supply, and free high speed wireless internet. Centrally located, the Marina is the gem of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

A professional and knowledgeable dock staff is available seven days a week to help provision and provide any services, amenities or requirements requested and devoted to taking care of your every need, ensuring your yachting lifestyle is filled with only enjoyable experiences. A variety of amenities to enhance your stay in St. Maarten, which include business services, a car rental agency, Bar & Restaurant, a ship’s store, a gym, outdoor gym and a variety of other retail outlets. ids@igymarinas.com | 721 544 2309

© Lagoon Marina

LAGOON MARINA

Welcome to the Lagoon Marina! Recognized by our trademark red building, Lagoon Marina boasts all the latest amenities in an old fashioned friendly atmosphere. We can accommodate up to 30 yachts alongside and rafted 2 together and we have 9 feet of water depth. FREE Internet is provided on the docks and bar. The marina has a laundry drop off service, clean showers and toilets, 110/220 power, water fill up and dock security.

The facility houses apartments for short and long term rental, a sail maker, electronics shop, marine electrics and refrigeration/AC services, a machine and engineering shop. info@lagoon-marina.com | 721 544 2611

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Marina Information

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

yachtingstmaarten.com

PALAPA MARINA Nestled in the vibrant Simpson Bay strip in St. Maarten, Palapa Marina sets the stage for a truly exceptional yachting experience.

As a family-owned business, we take pride in delivering personalized and friendly service to our guests. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of your stay at Palapa Marina exceeds your expectations.

Palapa Marina offers stern-to mooring for up to 22 mega yachts, ranging from 65’ to 250’ in length. With a maximum draft of 17’, we ensure that even the largest vessels can find a safe haven within our marina.

In addition to its prime location, Palapa Marina offers a range of amenities to enhance the boating experience. Fuel is conveniently provided at every berth, and metered water and electricity are available for all vessels. The marina also features several bars and restaurants, ensuring that guests can indulge in delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks without venturing far from their boats. © Palapa Marina

Furthermore, Palapa Marina is a hub of services and shops catering to maritime needs. From top-notch shipwrights and air conditioning repair to a fully stocked dive shop, the marina offers comprehensive support for all boating requirements. It is also home to the famous crew Bar - Soggy Dollar Bar, a popular gathering spot for crew members and locals alike.

To further assist crew members, the marina office is staffed with knowledgeable professionals who are always ready to assist. Whether it’s arranging provision services, placing flower orders, organizing quick turnaround laundry, or providing other concierge services, the marina staff goes the extra mile to ensure a seamless yacht charter experience.

With its combination of impressive facilities, dedicated service, and convenient location, Palapa Marina is an ideal choice for yacht owners and crew seeking a memorable and hassle-free yachting experience in St. Maarten. office@palapamarina.com | www.palapamarina.com | 721 545 2735 / WA 520 7002

PORT DE PLAISANCE We are perfectly positioned inside the Simpson Bay Lagoon with access from Simpson Bay Bridge on the Ditch Side and the Sandy Ground Bridge on the French Side.

When you dock with us, you will have complete access to a wide range of industry professionals and a variety of on-site amenities to enhance your stay in St. Maarten.

A few of our amenities include, a five-star hotel, restaurant and casino, a full service gym and tennis facility to fulfill your every need.

In addition to being noted as one of the finest luxury marinas in the Caribbean, the Yacht Club is a fully accredited ISPS certified facility for motor-yachts from 40’ to 260’, with drafts of up to 16’ - perfect for charter vessels transitioning both long-term and short-term. Our large ultra-strong concrete slips offer amenities that include: UltraLow-Sulfur-Diesel (ULSD), reverse osmosis water, 220, 380, 480v single or 3-phase power supply and free high speed wireless internet!

Marina Information

43

infosmmta@gmail.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association Dock Maarten

Island Water World

Yacht Club Isle De Sol

Simpson Bay Marina

Max draft

17ft.

9ft.

18ft.

15ft.

Max length

No restriction

60ft.

320ft.

175ft.

No. Slips

10

47

40

125

Water

Y

Y

Y

Y

Electricity

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cable / Sat.

N

N

N

N

Diesel

Y (24/7)

Y

Y

N

Gas

N

Y

N

N

Showers

Y

Y

N

Y

Laundry

N

N

Services available

Y

Provisioning

Y

N

Y

Y

Bar / Rest.

Y

N

Y

Y

Security

Y

Y

Y

Y

WIFI

Y

Y

Y

Y

VHF

87

74

16/78A

16/79A

Phone

+1(721) 542-5705

+1(721) 544-5310

+1(721) 544-2408

+1(721) 544-2309

Website

www.dock maarten.com

www.islandwater world.com

www.igymarinas.com/ marinas/yacht-club-islede-sol

www.igymarinas.com/ marinas/simp son-bay-marina

Amenities: Y/N

© IGY

44

Marina Information

yachtingstmaarten.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association Lagoon Marina

Palapa Marina

Port de Plaisance

Max draft

9ft.

17ft.

16ft.

Max length

100ft.

250ft.

260ft.

No. Slips

30

22

90+

Water

Y

Y

Y

Electricity

Y

Y

Y

Cable / Sat.

N

N

N

Diesel

N

Y

Y

Gas

N

N

Y

Showers

Y

Y

Y

Laundry

Y

Y

Y

Provisioning

N

Y

Y

Bar / Rest.

Y

Y

Y

Security

Y

Y

Y

WIFI

Y

Y

Y

VHF

-

68

67A

Phone

+1(721) 544-2611

+1(721) 545-2735

+1(721) 544-4565

Website

www.lagoon-marina.com

www.palapamarina.com

www.pdpmarina.com

Amenities: Y/N

© Palapa Marina

Marina Information

45

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

SAIL AWAY TO PARADISE: DISCOVER THE THRILLS OF SAILING IN ST. MAARTEN AND BEYOND!

infosmmta@gmail.com

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the enchanting island of St. Maarten beckons you to experience the ultimate sailing adventure. With its azure waters, gentle breezes, and vibrant culture, this tropical paradise offers a sailing experience like no other. But that’s not all – St. Maarten serves as a hub for sailors to explore the beauty of its surrounding islands: St. Barts, Anguilla and Saba, making it a sailor’s dream destination.

© Laurens Morel

SAILING EVENTS THAT SET HEARTS RACING St. Maarten takes its place as a premier destination for sailing events, attracting enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The world-renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta in March is a must-attend event that combines thrilling races with vibrant parties, creating an electric atmosphere that’s hard to match. For those owning a multihull, the Caribbean Multihull Challenge in February, is a showcase of the region’s fastest and most agile multihulls, offering a spectacle of speed and skill.

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Sail Away to Paradise

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

NURTURING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SAILORS The Sint Maarten Yacht Club’s youth program is dedicated to cultivating the love of sailing among young minds. Through sailing classes, events and mentorship, children and teenagers are introduced to the art of sailing while gaining essential life skills. This program not only imparts technical knowledge but also fosters a deep respect for marine conservation, ensuring that future generations become stewards of the sea. The Sint Maarten Yacht Club Sailing program dedicated itself to offering complimentary sailing lessons to local children. This program has flourished, with participants growing from 24 to an inspiring 48. Recently, the SMYC also launched its Sailability program, designed to empower differently abled youngsters and adults through the joy of sailing.

© Sint Maarten Yacht Club

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Sail Away to Paradise

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Aqua Mania Adventures

SETTING SAIL TO THE HORIZON St. Maarten isn’t just a destination; it’s a gateway to an entire world of sailing adventures. The island’s strategic location allows sailors to explore neighboring islands, each with its unique charm and allure.

Set a course to the pristine shores of Anguilla, the vibrant culture of St. Barts, or the unspoiled beauty of Saba. In St. Barts, the enchanting anchorages offer a blend of elegance and natural beauty. Picture yourself dropping anchor in Gustavia’s picturesque harbor, surrounded by chic boutiques and exquisite dining options. Over in Saba, the anchorages boast a rugged charm, with dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation creating a stunning backdrop. Well’s Bay invites you to immerse yourself in the island’s untouched allure. Meanwhile, Anguilla’s anchorages provide a serene escape, where pristine whitesand beaches and crystal-clear waters beckon. From the sheltered Road Bay to the tranquil Maundays Bay, each anchorage paints a unique portrait of Caribbean paradise, inviting you to savor every moment in these idyllic havens.

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Sail Away to Paradise

yachtingstmaarten.com

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

CHARTER YOUR OWN COURSE If you don’t own your own boat, consider chartering a boat in St. Maarten. Imagine setting sail for a week charting your own course through the pristine waters at your own leisure. Besides the surrounding islands, St. Maarten has many hidden gems to discover, like the tranquil Happy Bay, charming Grand Case, alluring Tintemarre, and the captivating Pinel. Sunsail offers top-notch chartering options, with or without a captain. Alternatively, explore private charter options for a personalized voyage. Even if you’re on a budget, don’t miss out – numerous day sailing charters provide the same exhilaration at a fraction of the cost. No matter your choice, the joy of this journey will keep a radiant smile on your face long after you’ve returned home.

© Sint Maarten Yacht Club

Sail Away to Paradise

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Maritime School of the West Indies

A SCHOOL FOR SAILING EXCELLENCE The Maritime School of the West Indies, nestled in St. Maarten, delivers high-quality, hands-on training that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the maritime industry. All of the instructors have over 10 years of experience sailing, and working professionally in the Maritime Industry. Whether you’re a beginner looking to grasp the fundamentals, or an experienced sailor aiming for advanced certifications, the school’s experienced instructors will guide you on a journey of mastery.

The school offers courses such as STCW, Day Skipper, Boat Master, Bareboat Skipper and much more to allow adults to excel in the marine industry.

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Sail Away to Paradise

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

yachtingstmaarten.com © Aqua Mania Adventures

UNFORGETTABLE SAILING ACTIVITIES FOR VISITORS Visitors to St. Maarten can indulge in a myriad of sailing activities that capture the essence of the island’s maritime charm. Embark on a sunset cruise and witness the sky ablaze with hues of orange and pink as you glide across tranquil waters, or experience the thrill of adrenaline-pumping water sports, such as windsurfing and kiteboarding, for an action-packed adventure on the waves.

St. Maarten is not just a destination; it’s a sailor’s playground where maritime dreams come true.

From the Sint Maarten Yacht Club’s youth program nurturing future sailors to the Maritime School of the West Indies imparting expert knowledge, and from the exhilarating St. Maarten Heineken Regatta to the allure of exploring surrounding islands, St. Maarten offers a sailing experience that’s second to none. So, set your course, raise your sails, and let the winds of adventure carry you to the maritime paradise of St. Maarten and its captivating neighbors. Your voyage of a lifetime awaits!

Sail Away to Paradise

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

EXPERIENCE THE SERIOUS RACING INTERNATIONAL AND WORLDRENOWNED ST. MAARTEN HEINEKEN REGATTA

The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is the most wellattended sailing event in the Caribbean, with over 100 boats from around the world joining the Regatta every year. Teams fly and sail in from as far as Australia and Asia to check off this bucket-list event, with over 37 nationalities represented across the fleet.

For decades, the world-class Regatta has attracted some of the world’s top sailors and teams, from Olympic medalists to the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race fleet.

The “big boat” fleet has hosted 100-ft Maxi showdowns between the world’s most luxurious racing yachts; and in 2022, the International Maxi Associated cemented St. Maarten Heineken Regatta as a leading Maxi event as one of the top three Caribbean events eligible for the special IMA Caribbean Maxi Challenge trophy.

Multihulls have also found a special place at the St. Maarten Heineken

Regatta,

with

a

growing fleet of racing and cruising multihulls, including the

home-grown

fleet

of

Diam24 trimarans. Additionally, the island has an impressive local sportsboat fleet, which attracts

top

talent

from

neighboring islands, as well as the highly mobile Cape 31 class who have boxed up and shipped into Port St. Maarten from both the US and UK to race in St. Maarten.

© Laurens Morel

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55

Dr. Bus

ENG1 Medical Examinations

– IMO Requirement * Integrated medicine * Naturopathy * Medicinal aromatherapy * Medicinal herbs

WHERE CONVENTIONAL AND INTEGRATED MEDICINE MEET

Green Meds SXM is an Integrated Health Clinic that offers an alternative way for health-care to treat disease and illness by various health-care professionals. Green Meds SXM mission is to help you, as a patient, to be as healthy as you possibly can be.

Our vision at the Integrated Health Clinic, Green Meds SXM, is to be the recognized leader in patient-focused integrative care. We are a professional healthcare destination, with complimentary naturopathic and conventional medicine, delivered in an individualized and wellrounded approach to healthcare, with compassion at our core.

Green Meds is about building bridges; it is not a movement designed to disparage conventional medicine. It is about using the best of all medical worlds at our disposal to provide top-quality care for our patients.

Dr. Frits Bus, MD, has been a family physician for over 40 years. Dr. Bus has always been an avid advocate of preventing disease through healthy living within his practice and community. Having experienced the power of natural medicine himself, Dr. Bus decided he wanted to start an integrative medical clinic: Green Meds SXM.

In 2014, Dr. Bus studied alternative natural treatments and started to treat people with a preventative approach. He believes it is vital to stimulate and guide his patients towards a healthier lifestyle. In 2019, he started Green Meds SXM together with his daughter, who is a certified dietician.

Green Meds SXM provides treatments and services such as nutrition, natural medicines, healthy recipes, home DIY remedies, fitness, aromatherapy, and conventional medicine.

The Great Bay Medical Clinic and Green Meds SXM offer both conventional and natural medical options – combining the best of both for the benefit of his patients under one roof.

Today, the integrative methods of Dr. Bus and his colleagues are helping patients locally and internationally. Dr. Bus, a cancer survivor himself, also assists those with cancer and autoimmune diseases to strengthen their treatments and curb symptoms with the help of natural medicine – with great results.

In addition, Dr. Bus has ample experience in emergency, maternity and sportscare.

Whether you are in need of a firsttime consult or are seeking alternative healthcare options for your diagnosis, Dr. Bus is there to help GreenMeds SXM as

part of the Great Bay Clinic is dedicated to providing a wide selection of services to cater to a variety of medical needs. These include but are not limited to, medical consultations, dietary consultations and health & wellness programs.

Medical Consultations • Monitor and regulate blood pressure/ Hypertension • Cardiac care • Monitor and regulate blood glucose sugar levels/Diabetes Mellitus 1 & 2 • Physical check up’s • Small surgical procedures (stitches, wound treatments, injections, etc) • Gynecological check-ups & pap smear • Contraceptives including IUD & injections • First-trimester pregnancy check-ups and Fetal Doppler checks • Treatment of shortness of breath for asthmatic patients • Detection of different cancers (breast cancer, cervical, prostate, etc) • Vaccinations & Travel advice • ENG1 basic medical examination for those who work at sea, carried out by our MCA-Approved Doctor.

Great Bay Medical Clinic, Phillipsburg, St. Maarten | +1 721-5805834 | info@greenmedssxm.com | www.greenmedssxm.com

yachtingstmaarten.com

© Laurens Morel

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St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

© Laurens Morel

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta’s race committee and jury are comprised of World Sailing officials and leaders, who are committed to designing fair and fun courses for every fleet. The Regatta also offers a special “Island Time” class, for those who want to enjoy the Regatta and island on their own time, with later starts, shorter courses, and one race per day to better balance race “work” and play. The popular bareboat class offers competitive one design non-spinnaker racing, while more race charters are being offered each season for those interested in handicapped performance racing.

No matter your boat size or crew make up, whether you are coming with friends, family or are part of a professional team, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta offers “Serious Fun!” racing for everyone.

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St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

yachtingstmaarten.com

© Laurens Morel

59

infosmmta@gmail.com

60

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

yachtingstmaarten.com

© Laurens Morel

61

St. Maarten Marine Trades Association

infosmmta@gmail.com

SERIOUS FUN! With Heineken as a title sponsor for decades, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has become synonymous with “Serious Fun!” entertainment on the island. Every first week of March for the past 44 years, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta brings over 20,000 visitors to the island for this worldrenowned sailing and cultural event.

Sailors, travelers, and islanders alike come to enjoy all the top entertainment that the Regatta and St. Maarten have to offer. For the four day event, the island is in party-mode with a full roster of local and international performers to carry the celebrations from day to night. Visitors come to enjoy the event as a spectator on the water, while being a full participant in soaking up beach life, happy hours and the bridge show at the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, plus indulging in some of the world’s best restaurants all in one place.

Proud islanders show their support and love of our island by heading down to the Regatta Village each evening for sundowners, their favorite local cuisine, and the vibing beats. The Regatta Village is free and open to all starting at 3 PM daily, with prizegiving ceremonies starting at 6 PM and live entertainment throughout the evening.

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St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

yachtingstmaarten.com

The parties continue past midnight each night at select “after-parties” hosted at top venues around the island, featuring internationally recognized DJs and artists.

The celebrations culminate at the legendary final prize-giving and concert at the Regatta Village on Sunday, where the love for music, culture, and the island of St. Maarten brings us all back together for one final party night!

The 2024 St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is taking place from February 29 – March 3, 2024. For more information check out www.heinekenregatta.com.

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

63

infosmmta@gmail.com

64

© Laurens Morel

GENERAL INFORMATION

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN...........................................70 THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN................................................................74 THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN.......................................................76 GENERAL INFORMATION.......................................................................................78 CONTACTS...................................................................................................................80

66

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

I

NTRODUCTION As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten became a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. On October 9, 2010, the Netherlands Antilles in which Sint Maarten was one of five Island Territories ceased to exist as a country within the Dutch

Kingdom. The Kingdom of the Netherlands now comprises of the following countries, The Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten. The three other islands, Saba, St. Eustatius and Bonaire are now public entities of the Netherlands and have a similar status as Dutch municipalities.

As a country, Sint Maarten enjoys its own autonomy. In this respect, it is free to enact its own laws providing that these laws do not conflict with the laws of a higher nature (Kingdom) or with international treaties of which the Netherlands are cosignatory.

THE GOVERNMENT As an island territory, Sint Maarten was governed by the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles, and in accordance herewith the administration units of the Island Territory were: the Island Council, Executive Council and Lt. Governor.

As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten is now governed by its own Constitution and the following institutions of government: Governor as Head of State, the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister, and the Parliament.

THE PARLIAMENT The parliament is the highest legislative body of country Sint Maar Maarten and represents the entire population of the Dutch side of the island. The parliament consists of 15 members who are elected for a four-year period.

The session year of parliament commences on the second Tuesday of September. During this session, the Governor provides an explanation of the policy to be pursued by the government.

The parliament elects a President and Deputy President from its own numbers. The President of Parliament shall open and close the session year of the Parliament.

© Nicola Pulham / Shutterstock.com

70

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS The Council of Ministers comprises of seven ministers.

The ministers are answerable to the Parliament. The Prime Minister chairs the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers shall debate and determine government policy in order to promote the cohesion of that policy. If the Governor attends a meeting of the Council of Ministers, he/she shall do so in an advisory capacity.

is responsible for defense and foreign affairs. The Queen of the Netherlands is Head of State and is represented by the Governor.

Other institutions of government are the Council of Advice, the General Audit Chamber and Ombudsman.

THE JUDICIARY

The Prime Minister and other ministers shall be appointed and dismissed by national ordinance. If a minister no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament, he/she shall surrender his/ her office.

The courts forming part of the judiciary are: the Court at First Instance; the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba.

The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the Netherlands in relation to legal cases in Sint Maarten shall be regulated

by Kingdom Law.

The Minister Plenipotentiary must have the Dutch nationality.

This person represents the island in the Kingdom Council of Ministers meetings in The Hague, The Netherlands. The minister also has his/her office in the Netherlands under the banner of the “Sint Maarten House.”

The responsibilities of the judiciary are: the adjudication of disputes on civil matters; the trial of criminal offenses; and the adjudication of disputes on administrative law matters.

Each minister heads one of seven ministries which are established by national ordinance.

SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

CONSTITUTIONAL COURT The duty of the court is to assess the compatibility of any applicable statutory regulations. The constitutional court consists of three members, including a president and a vice president, and three substitute members.

Sint Maarten is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with full autonomy in internal affairs. The Kingdom Government

WELCOME TO SINT MAARTEN!

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

GENERAL INFORMATION

71

THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN

The Governor is, in his capacity as representative of the King, the head of the government of Sint Maarten. As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten, as a country, is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curacao, and the Netherlands. In spite of the many differences between the countries of the Kingdom there is still a unifying bond. This bond is partly reflected in the role of the Governor as representative of the King and Kingdom Government on Sint Maarten.

The Governor informs you about his activities, tasks, and responsibilities via the website of the Governor of Sint Maarten: www.kabgsxm.com. You will also find information about the Cabinet of the Governor. This is the organization that supports the Governor in the execution of his function.

At the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten you can, among others, apply for the Dutch nationality through naturalization or option. The Cabinet of the Governor also issues visas and travel documents such as passports and emergency documents. You can find information on these and other products of the Cabinet of the Governor on this website.

THE GOVERNOR

Personal life and education Ajamu G. Baly, a son of the soil, was born and raised in Sint Maarten. He was brought up with much love for his island and was educated by his environment with the understanding that you must study and work for what you want to achieve in life.

After completing his education on the island at the Sister Borgia elementary school and subsequently the Milton Peters College, he moved to the Netherlands to start his tertiary education in Law at the University van Amsterdam (UVA).

Soon after receiving his law degree, Ajamu Baly returned to his island to start giving back to his community.

74

L to R: His Excellency Governor Ajamu Baly and Acting Governor, Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake

Ajamu Baly worked at the Ministry of Justice at the department of Judicial Affairs, during this time in early 2012 he became a member and later Chairman of the Study Financing appeal committee. In January of 2014 Ajamu Baly transitioned to the Council of Advice as the Secretary Director. In 2015 Ajamu Baly became a board member of the Stichting Justitiële Inrichtingen Sint Maarten.

Two years later in august of 2017 Ajamu Baly joined the CBCS as a member of the supervisory board. This year In February of 2022 Ajamu Baly was appointed as Deputy Judge of Instruction at the Joint Court of Justice.

As of October 10, 2022, Ajamu Baly will serve his country as the Second Governor of the island of Sint Maarten. Ajamu Baly is aside from a Sint Maarten professional a dedicated family man, a son a husband and father of (two children) a son and a daughter.

AUTHORITIES OF THE GOVERNOR

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of four countries: Sint Maarten,Aruba, Curacao, and the Netherlands since October 10, 2010. On that date, Sint Maarten acquired the status of country within the Kingdom. As a result, Sint Maarten has its own Governor as of that day.

In accordance with the regulation of the Governor the authorities of the Governor are divided in powers assigned

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN to him by law as an organ of the country Sint Maarten and as an organ of the Kingdom.

THE GOVERNOR AS ORGAN OF THE COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN

As organ of the country of Sint Maarten the Governor represents the King of the Netherlands, King Willem Alexander, on Sint Maarten and is as such the head of the government of Sint Maarten. As head of government the Governor is immune, and the ministers are responsible. The Governor together with the ministers forms the Government of Sint Maarten and as such exercise’s executive powers.

The executive powers are related to: 1. The establishment and promulgation of national ordinances and the signing of national decrees, containing general measures.

2. The appointment, suspension and dismissal of civil servants and the establishment of their remuneration; 3. The management of the finances and domains (properties) of Sint Maarten; 4. The granting of remission of sentence and dispensations; 5. Granting permission for military aircraft and vessels of a foreign power to enter airspace or territorial waters of Sint Maarten.

Many high officials, when accepting their official duties, take the oath or the declaration and affirmation in the hands of the Governor. This applies to, among others, ministers, members of Parliament, members of the Council of Advice, members of the General Audit Chamber, the Attorney General, and judges.

At the beginning of the new Parliamentary year, on the second Tuesday of September, the Governor delivers the Governors address in a meeting of Parliament convened for that purpose. The Governor’s address is an outline of the envisaged plans and policies of the Government. The Prime Minister is responsible for the contents of the address.

The Governor is also the chairman of the Council of Advice.

In that capacity he has an advisory function. The vice-chair is responsible for the daily management. The Council of Advice advises the Government and Parliament on (draft) legislation.

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

The Governor also participates in the legislative branch of Government of Sint Maarten. The Governor presents draft national ordinances for approval to the Parliament and enacts them, after approval is obtained. Subsequently, he sees to it that the enacted national ordinances are promulgated.

THE GOVERNOR AS ORGAN OF THE KINGDOM

As organ of the Kingdom the Governor represents the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Governor in this capacity is responsible to the Government of the Kingdom. The Governor is authorized, within the limits of the law, to act on behalf of the Kingdom government.

As organ of the Kingdom the Governor, in regard to Sint Maarten, guards the general interest of the kingdom, is responsible for the implementation of Kingdom Laws, of General administrative measures and of international treaties and oversees compliance therewith. This applies to the following kingdom affairs:

1. Maintaining the independence and the defense of the Kingdom (Commander of Armed Forces); 2. Foreign relations; 3. Dutch nationality; 4. The regulation of the knighthoods (The Royal honors) 5. Provide for the realization and supervision of the observance of kingdom laws, general administrative measures and international agreements.

In this regard citizens of Sint Maarten mainly come in contact with the Governor through the implementation of the Passport Law (issuing of travel documents), the implementation of the regulation issuing visas (Granting visas), the implementation of the Law on Dutch citizenship (naturalization and option), and the awarding of the annual Royal decorations on King’s Day. The Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten Falcon Drive 3, Harbour View, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Consultation Hours (by appointment only): Monday - Friday 9am - 11am Telephone Consultation Hours: Monday - Friday 2pm - 3pm Tel: +1 (721) 542 - 1199 Contact: Tel: +1 (721) 542 - 1160 Fax: +1 (721) 542 - 1187 Email: kabinet@kabgsxm.com Website: www.kabgsxm.com

GENERAL INFORMATION ORMATION

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THE INSTITUTION ITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN The Ombudsman Sint Maarten was founded on October 10th, 2010 by National Ordinance Ombudsman (AB 2010 no.20). As one of the High Councils of State its legal origin is founded in the Constitution of Sint Maarten (article 78) and as such its independence is safeguarded. The first Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was Dr. Rachnilda (Nilda) J.A. Arduin.

In 1978 the International Ombudsman Institute was established, and an in 2002 the Caribbean Ombudsman formed the Caribbean Ombudsman Omb Association.The Ombudsman of Sint Maarten is a member of both organizations. In 2012 the

O

Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was elected to be one of the

RIGIN:

In 1809 the institution of Ombudsman was born in Sweden where the Ombudsman was

appointed by Parliament. The institution was charged with safeguarding the rights of its citizens by examining citizens’ complaints and to work in close contact with the highest authority in the land.

regional directors of the International Ombudsman Institute, representing the Latin and Caribbean region on the Board.

Private companies, universities and non-profit organizations in other countries also have ombudsman offices to deal with internal complaints; these report to the CEO or board of directors, whereas an ombudsman who deals with complaints against government bodies or entities charged with public

Countries in all parts of the world have followed the example of the Scandinavian model, even calling the new institution by the same name, Ombudsman. Some Spanish countries refer to the institution as “Defonsor del Pueblo”, the French as “Médiateur de la République”, and others refer to the institution as the “Public Protector”. An added dimension to the institution as it evolves is one of Human Rights Commission.

ESTABLISHMENT The Kingdom of the Netherlands: The Institution was established in the Netherlands in 1982 with a National

authority, in general reports to the Parliament of the country.

ORDINANCES GOVERNING THE TASKS AND COMPETENCES OF THE OMBUDSMAN: THE CONSTITUTION OF SINT MAARTEN (AB 2010 NO. L); THE NATIONAL ORDINANCE OMBUDSMAN (AB 2010 NO. 20);

Ombudsman, followed by the appointment in 1987 of an Ombudsman of Amsterdam; in 2003 an Ombudsman was appointed on Curaçao, and per October 10th 2010 the Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was appointed.

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THE NATIONAL ORDINANCE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT (AB 2010 NO.29)

GENERAL INFORMATION

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THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN COMPETENCIES OF THE OMBUDSMAN

The Ombudsman has the authority in accordance with the National Ordinance to:

The role and competencies of the Ombudsman are regulated

• investigate complaints or own motions

in the Constitution of Sint Maarten, the National Ordinance

• intervene to find practical solutions within a short period of

Ombudsman and the National Ordinance Constitutional

• issue a ruling after investigation

Court.

01

time

THE INVESTIGATIVE ROLE: “PROTECTOR OF THE CITIZENS.”

The Ombudsman is authorized to investigate complaints

• provide recommendations to government; measures to be taken to address a situation in general

• stop an investigation

filed against a civil servant, government body or government

• inform Parliament immediately after investigation

entity charged with public authority for behavior or conduct

• publish its findings, conclusions and anonymous reports (without names of the complainants

exhibited in the execution of their function.

The complaint can be filed by a natural person or an entity.

The Ombudsman can initiate an investigation on her own when the Ombudsman is of the opinion that certain practices or behavior are improper.

The Ombudsman investigates the conduct of government in the relationship with its citizens that goes beyond the written laws: The Ombudsman investigates “propriety” in accordance with the rules of conduct /standards of proper conduct developed to promote ‘good governance’.

The Ombudsman can also initiate an investigation on her own.

ROLE IN THE LAWMAKING

02 PROCESS: “GUARDIAN OF THE CONSTITUTION.” According to the Constitution only the Ombudsman can submit new laws and regulations, that seem to be in conflict with the Constitution, for partial or total annulment to the Constitutional Court. This has to be done in writing within 6 weeks after ratification of the law. Exceptions: Uniformed laws (in association with Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten)

Contact: Bureau Ombudsman E. Camille Richardson Street #13, P.O. Box 188, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: (+1)721 542-1250/ 542-1231/ 542-1243 Fax: (+1)721 5421240 Email: info@ombudsmansxm.com Web: www.ombudsmansxm.com

and Laws of an urgent nature.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

A

BOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN Sint Maarten attained its current status as Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on October 10th,

2010 (10-10-10) through the restructuring of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Sint Maarten is a Parliamentary

Democracy with autonomy regarding internal affairs. The Government of the Netherlands is responsible for Defense, Foreign Affairs, and the Judiciary.

The Council of Ministers consist of the Prime Minister and six Ministers that are appointed for a four year term and governs the executive administration, along with the Governor of Sint Maarten. The Governor, who represents the Dutch Kingdom, serves for a six year term, sanctions appointments and governmental activities.The Minister Plenipotentiary in the Netherlands is the representative of the Government of Sint Maarten in the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Council of Ministers are responsible for the following seven ministries, Ministry of General Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Ministry of Public Health , Social Development & Labor, Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication.

CLIMATE The island enjoys sunshine all year round. Average wind speed of 4.1 m/s; average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) in the winter and 86 degrees (30 degrees) in the summer.

The sun shines for approximately eight hours a day and the average rainfall annually is approximately 40 inches. The water temperature is approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.6 degrees Celsius). Gentle trade winds keep the humidity low.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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GENERAL INFORMATION MATION POPULATION The population of Sint Maarten is approximately 60,400 as of the end of 2016 comprising of more than 150 nationalities.

Apart from persons born on Curacao, Aruba, Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, Sint Maarten and Dutch nationals, the 10 countries with the highest populations on the Dutch side of the island are: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Dominica, Jamaica, Guyana, India, Great Britain, France, St. Kitts & Nevis, and St. Lucia according to statistical information provided by the

© Martin Sun / Shutterstock.com

Civil Registry Department.

TIME ZONE St. Maarten is on Atlantic Standard Time, which is Greenwich

2024 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Mean Time (GMT) minus four (4) hours.

All government offices and businesses are officially closed on the following annual public holidays:

LANGUAGES The official languages are Dutch and English as stated in the

New Year’s Day

Mon. Jan. 01, 2024

Constitution of Sint Maarten.

Good Friday

Fri. Mar. 29, 2024

CURRENCY

Easter Sunday

Sun. Mar. 31, 2024

The official currency of Sint Maarten at this time remains

Easter Monday

Mon. Apr. 01, 2024

the Netherlands Antillean Florin (Guilder; Naf./Fls.) and is

King’s Day

Sat. Apr. 27, 2024

Carnival Day

Tue. Apr. 30, 2024

Labour Day

Wed. May 01, 2024

Ascension Day

Thu. May 09, 2024

Whit Sunday

Sun. May 19, 2024

Emancipation Day

Mon. Jul. 01, 2024

Constitution Day

Mon. Oct. 14, 2024

Sint Maarten Day

Mon. Nov. 11, 2024

Christmas Day

Wed. Dec. 25, 2024

Boxing Day

Thu. Dec. 26, 2024

fixed to the U.S. Dollar at an exchange rate of 1.79 and 1.82.

The official currency of the North side of the island is the Euro. No official rate exists. The Euro value depends on the international exchange rate and is between 1.25 and 1.40 US$. The US Dollar is widely accepted on both sides of the island.

ELECTRICITY 110 volts A.C. (50 cycles) on the Dutch side or 208/220 volts (60 cycles) on the French side.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS Telephone service is all over as well as cellular phone and internet service. The island is well connected with the international community.

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Copies of these National Public Holidays Schedules may be obtained via the Government website www.sintmaartengov.org

GENERAL INFORMATION

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CONTACTS USEFU ADDRESSES & USEFUL CONTACTS CO Government Administration Building Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ..................................................542-2534 / 2535 / 4305 / 4300 Cabinet of the Governor General Falcon Drive 3, Harbor View, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-1160 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-1187 Email:.................................................................kabinet@kabgsxm.com

© Ruth Peterkin / Shutterstock.com

Web:............................................................................www.kabgsxm.com Bureau of Foreign Relations & Protocol

TELEPHONE CODE FOR SINT MAARTEN:

#10 C.A. Cannegieter Street, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ............................................................................................. 542-0640

1-721

Web:............ www.sintmaartengov.org/government/az/depart Management Resources Administration Building, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-83 2-8360 60

Labour & Social Affairs

Fax: ............................................................................................. 543-7935 43-7935

Walter Nisbeth Road #57, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ..................................................543-7509 / 0170 / 7510 / 3561

Department of Communications

Fax: ............................................................................................. 543-7511

Harbor View, Jobco Building #2, level 1, Unit 4E,

Email:.............................................. labor-affairs@sintmaartengov.org

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Web:............................................................... www.sxmlaboraffairs.com

Tel: ...................................................................... 542-4119 / 543-1162 Fax: ............................................................................................. 543-1169

Economy & Tourism

Email:.......................................................dcomm@sintmaartengov.org

Walter Nisbeth Road 57, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 543-7821

Legal Affairs

Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-3111

Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ............................................................................... 520-0031 / 0086

Department of Tourism Krippa Commercial Building, Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard #6,

Parliament of St. Maarten

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Parliament Building,Wilhelmina Str. #1, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ...................................................................... 549-0200 / 542-2337

Tel: ............................................................................... 542-0812 / 2929

Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-2734

Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-0306

Email:..................................................................info@e-stmaarten.com

Email:...............................................................info@sxmparliament.org

Web:..........................................................www.vacationstmaarten.com We

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© Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

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CONTACTS Department of Economic Affairs Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ................................... 542-223 542-2233 / 2535 / 43 4300 / 2534 / 4305 Department of Business Licens ense e & Permits mits Bico Building, Zout Steeg 3, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-2986 2986 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-7822 Department of Finance Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-8360 The Chamber of Commerce Cannegieter Street 11, P.O. Box 454, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ..................................................................... 542-3590 / 542-3595 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-3512

BANKING Sint Maarten offers highly international banking, communication and professional services that are geared at promoting the island as an international center.

Below you will find a listing of some of our banks that could inform you on different encumbrances such as the exchange rate, interest rates for loans etc.

Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten P.O. Box 193, Nisbeth Road #25, Pondfill, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-3520 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-4307 Email:..................................................................... info@centralbank.cw

Any additional information that you may require can be obtained by calling the following numbers:

Tel: 542-2233 Fax: 542-4884

at the Government Administration Building Reception Desk.

Central Mortgage Bank WJA Nisbeth Road 97 A, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-0442 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-0443

Republic Bank 29 Airport Road, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................. 544-3390 / 3392 Fax: ............................................................................................. 544-3396 Email:........................................................... republicbank.an@rfhl.com om

Republic Bank Back Street #62, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................. 542-2262 / 3317 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-2435 Email:........................................................... republicbank.an@rfhl.com

First Caribbean International Bank Back Street 38, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 542-3511 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-4531 Web:..................................................................................... www.cibc.com

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CONTACTS Windward Islands Bank Ltd. Head Office, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 546-2942 Fax: ............................................................................................. 542-4761 Website:....................................................................... www.wib-bank.net Orco Bank Union Road 139 f, Union Plaza, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten Tel: .............................................................................................. 544-4744 Fax: ............................................................................................. 544-4745 Email:....................................................................... ....................................................................... info@orcobank.com RBC Royal Bank C.A. Cannegieter Street 24, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-5908 542-5908..

Fax:............................................................................................... 542-5964 Web:.................................................................... .................................................................... www.rbcroyalbank.com

OTHER CONTACTS AIRPORTS Princess Juliana International Airport Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, P.O. Box 2027 Tel: ............................................................................... 546-7542 / 7777 Fax: .............................................................................. 546-7542 / 7550 Email:.................................................................... info@sxmairport.com Esperance Grand Case Airport Highway of Hope, 97150 Grand Case, Saint Martin Tel:........................................................................................590 27 11 00 Fax:.......................................................................................590 87 09 71 PORT ST. MAARTEN A.C Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities, J. Yrausquin Boulevard, Harbor Village Suite #13A, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten Chief Executive Officer....................................................... Mark Mingo Email:.........................................mark_mingo@portofstmaarten.com Tel:................................................................................. 542-8504 / 8503 Fax............................................................................................... 542-8506 Email:.....................................................comments@portstmaarten.sx GEBE Water and Electricity Company Tel:................................................................................................ 542-2213 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-4810 24/24 Emergency:...................................................1 (844) 432-3213

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CARIBSERVE.NET Codville Webster Road 2, Suite 3, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:............................................................................................... 542-0101 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-4229 TELEM GROUP Soualiga Bldg. #5, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 546-0200 Fax............................................................................................... 543-7737 Website:..................................................................... www.telemgroup.sx SMITCOMS Falcon Drive # 3, Harbour View, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-9140 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-9141

GENERAL INFORMATION

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CONTACTS UTS Codville Webster Road 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-0101 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-3274 Phone Card Info Number: ................................................................127 St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association W.J.A. Nisbeth Road 33A, P.O. Box 486, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-0108 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-0107 E-mail:................................................................................info@shta.com Website:...............................................................................www.shta.com Consulate General Dominican Republic Emmaplein 1, Suite B, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................. 542-0338 / 0339 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-0337

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

Immigration Service Princess Juliana International Airport Tel:................................................................................. 543-0355 / 0353 Fax:............................................................................................... 543-0386 Email:.............................................. immigration@sintmaartengov.org Post Office N. Debrot Street 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-2947 Fax:............................................................................................... 542-3308 SXM Notary Richards Font Street #5, Unit 4, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-6817 Email:..........................................................info@sxmnotaryrichards.sx Web:..............................................................www.sxmnotaryrichards.sx Notary Boekhoudt Professional Office Park, Osprey Drive 1, Unit 2-B, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................ 542-9926 Email:..................................................contact@notaryboekhoudt.com Web:.............................................................www.notaryboekhoudt.com Notary Mingo Fouress Building Suite 4D, Emmaplein, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:........................................................................ 542-3556 / 542-2684 Email:................................................................. info@notarymingo.com Web:..................................................................... www.notarymingo.com Notary Tjon Ajong & Associates Front Street 5, Suite 4, P.O. Box 751, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:........................................................................ 554-5095 / 542-2027 Email:.............................................................. general@notarysxm.com Web:.........................................................................www.notarysxm.com

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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INVESTMENT GUIDE

BUSINESS LICENSE.....................................................................................................87 BDO ST. MAARTEN.....................................................................................................96 TAXATION................................................................................................................. 100 INCENTIVES............................................................................................................... 102 FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT..................................................................... 104 FINANCIAL SERVICES............................................................................................. 106 EDUCATION SYSTEM............................................................................................. 109 UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN................................................................................ 110 PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.......................................... 112 PORT ST. MAARTEN................................................................................................ 116 TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN..................................................... 126 BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATION & POST..................................................... 128

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BUSINESS LICENSE

T

HE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR COMPANY ON ST. MAARTEN

■ THE BUSINESS LICENSE FOR A SOLE PROPRIETOR: All sole proprietors who are not owned by people born in the Netherlands Antilles need a business license to operate a

At the time of an establishment of a company on St. Maarten,

business on St. Maarten. This means that Arubans born after

you will need to decide the organization form of your

1986 also need a business license.

company. You can choose for a Sole Proprietor (One Man Business) or to incorporate the business. (Incorporation is

■ REQUEST PROCEDURE:

the registration of a company by notarial act). St. Maarten

A business license for a one-man business can be requested

has one legal body that is the most commonly used for

by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of

incorporation of companies which is the Limited Liability

St. Maarten. The letter must mention:

Company (N.V.)

1 The name of the business

There are also other legal bodies on St. Maarten, e.g. the

2 The name of the owner

Private Limited Liability Company (B.V.), Partnership Firm

3 The nature and objectives of the business

(V.O.F.), Limited Partnership (Commanditaire vennootschap),

4 The investment capital

Foundation (Stichting), and Association (Vereeniging).

In principal, any business on St. Maarten must have a business

5 The location of the business

need a business license. Here you will find information about

■ THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES

the business license, the management license, the zoning plan

1 A letter addressed to the Executive Council requesting

and other permits and licenses you will need to start and to

a business license. This request should be written in the Dutch language.

license. Only businesses, which are one-man businesses owned by people born in the Netherlands Antilles, do not

operate your company.

2 A copy of your passport

SOLE PROPRIETORS A Sole Proprietor is a business where there is no distinction between the business assets and the personal assets. As owner you will be personally liable for all obligations of the

3 A copy of your curriculum vitae. (resume) 4 A copy of your diploma(s) certificate(s) (only needed I case to depict a certain expertise)

5 A copy of your police record. (not valid after six months)

business.

Persons Eligible for a business license to operate a sole proprietorship is:

1 Persons born in the Netherlands of Dutch nationality residing on Sint Maarten for 10 years or longer.

6 The exact business location 7 Your present home or mailing address 8 Your present telephone number 9 A copy of Census registration from.

2 Persons who are naturalized Dutch.

10 A copy your permanent residency permits.

3 Persons of foreign nationality registered at the Census

11 A copy of your marriage book.

office for 10 years or longer.

4 Persons of foreign nationality married to an Antillean.

Please take note that any request received by the department

5 Persons with a permanent residence permit.

that is not sufficiently documented will not be processed.

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BUSINESS LICENSE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES

A limited liability company is a corporate body with shareholders, governed by corporate law and its articles of association.

■ THE INCORPORATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES: The incorporation of limited liability companies is done by the execution of a notarial act. The establisher and/or incorporator do not have to be a citizen of the Netherlands Antilles but one of the directors has to be registered on St. Maarten. A limited liability company can have more than one director and needs a business license.

■ THE BUSINESS LICENSE FOR LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES AND PARTNERSHIPS: A business license for limited liability companies and partnerships can be requested by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. The letter must mention: 1 The name of the business 2 The name of the owner 3 The nature and objectives of the business 4 The investment capital 5 The place of establishment

can also let the notary’s office handle the request procedure for the business and management license including the payment of fees. Incorporation of a business can be done at any notary’s office in the Netherlands Antilles. But the notarial act has to state that the establishment will be done on St. Maarten.

BRANCHES:

Partnerships or limited liability companies, which are already incorporated on the Netherlands Antilles and want to open a branch, do not have to incorporate the branch. They only have to request a business license. All limited liability companies and partnerships e.g. N.V., B.V., Ca., SPA., Ltd, SRL, Inc., incorporated in foreign countries must first incorporate the business on the Netherlands Antilles and then request a business license on St. Maarten.

GRANTING PROCEDURE FOR A BUSINESS LICENSE:

At the granting of the business license the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten is authorized to connect conditions concerning the nature and the place of the business as also concerning the creditworthiness of the applicant and the financing of the business. A business license can be refused in the interest of the public order, peace and general interest of St. Maarten.

THE CHANGING OF DATA OF A BUSINESS LICENSE:

■ THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES: 1 A letter addressed to the Executive Council requesting a business license. This request should be written in the Dutch language.

2 A copy of your diploma(s) certificate(s) of director (s) (only needed in case to depict a certain expertise) 3 A copy of your police record of director (s) with foreign nationality. (not valid after six months)

When changes occur in a business e.g. the name or location of a business changes etc. you must request the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten to make changes in your license. Changes can be requested by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten.

■ WE WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS/ INFORMATION FROM YOU:

5 Your present home or mailing address

1 A letter to the Executive Council requesting the change of your foreign address to your local address

6 Your present telephone number

2 Copy of the company’s business license

Please take note that any request received by the department that is not sufficiently documented will not processed.

3 Copy of your director’s license

NOTARY:

THE ZONING PLAN:

4 The exact address of business

Entrepreneurs that are going to incorporate their company

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4 Copy of Census Registration

To know where you may establish your company on St.

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BUSINESS LICENSE Maarten you will have to contact VROMI.They have a Zoning plan stating the location where companies may establish.

MANAGEMENT LICENSE: All individuals born outside the Netherlands Antilles need a management license in order to start and to operate a business on St. Maarten. The Management license can be requested by letter addressed to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. A Management License is not necessary for an E.Z. (one-man business). The letter must mention:

OTHER LICENSES AND PERMITS Businesses that are going to sell drinks or food and/or rent accommodation also need to request for a beverage and horeca license. Those that do not have a Dutch Nationality must also have a residence and work permit. For more information about these licenses and permits, brochures are available at: Department of Licenses Public Vending and Economic Control Zoutsteeg Streetv #3, Philipsburg

1 The name of the business

Tel: 1(721) 542-2986

2 The name, place and date of birth of the applicant

Fax: 1(721) 543-7822

REGISTRATION OF BUSINESSES

3 The nationality of the applicant 4 The nature and objective of the business 5 The acquisition of the director’s license does not allow you work on the island; a request must be submitted to the Immigration Department for a residence permit; if granted then you are allowed to work 6 For some types of businesses an additional license is required: an operational license (example restaurant, hotel/guest, Casino car rental) the request for this license must also be submitted to the Executive Council.

After the business and management licenses have been granted, businesses must be registered at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A fee upon inscription.

Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(Source of information, St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry Website – www.chamberofcommerce.sx - under “Business Registration Guidelines.”)

In principal, any business on St. Maarten must have a business license.

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BDO ST. MAARTEN M INSPIRING EDUCATING INSPIRING, AND LEADING LE AN UNSTOPPABLE MOVEMENT UNS FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICE IN OUR MARKETS WITH PAUL LUNGU – PARTNER BDO SINT MAARTEN. For most organizations, there is a growing business imperative to address sustainability. The material risks that companies face are broadening and becoming more complex.These mounting risks have led to the emergence of a global sustainability movement, driven by capital markets, governments, communities and various stakeholders. This demand for transparency and accountability in environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters calls for better understanding of the impact of business and industry on the environment and our societies - and an effective response.

BDO’s approach to sustainability is underpinned by our WHY – ‘People helping people achieve their dreams’. This guides every action we take to ensure a more sustainable organization so that the way we live our lives today does not negatively impact future generations.

Everything we do at BDO is viewed through a sustainability lens to ensure that we implement and embed the principles of sustainability across all BDO firms as a global initiative and a business imperative.

As a member of the Net Zero Financial Service Providers Alliance, the BDO global network has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions before 2050 and halving our emissions by 2030 - in alignment with the Paris Agreement. We are working to measure our carbon baseline and to develop a roadmap detailing carbon emission mitigation strategies for our global organization.

Sustainability is a journey and there will always be more work to be done.We are fully committed to doing everything we can to contribute to the advancement of society, the transparency of business, and the protection of the planet.

SUSTAINABILITY SERVICES

Our client-facing experts help organisations be better, do better, be more efficient, and contribute to a more sustainable future through several products, processes, and tools to help clients in their own sustainability journeys. Smart companies are discovering that it is no longer a choice between going green and growing long-term profits – sustainability is the path to prosperity. For both humanitarian and business reasons, it is imperative that all organisations take action

96

now and embrace the benefits of a green economy.

We work with clients no matter where they are on their sustainability journey – we are here to guide you through a complex landscape to help you achieve success.

MATERIALITY ANALYSIS, is the foundational activity for the start of reporting. It consists of identifying the primary impacts of economic, environmental and social elements, summarised in a Materiality Matrix. This methodological analysis helps to determine the broader dimensions of the company, defining its strategic role with respect to the sector and the challenges within a national and international context.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT, an activity carried out with the purpose of updating the Materiality Analysis. BDO would propose a strategic engagement programme with key stakeholders to ensure communication and alignment of programme objectives.

‘INTEGRATED THINKING’ aims to look at a business holistically to find value-creation opportunities using a combination of financial and non-financial methods. BDO accompanies the organisation in a journey of value creation including a short, medium, and long-term horizon. Using internationally recognised frameworks, BDO promotes ESG reporting processes that allow the periodic publication of a non-financial report (besides the annual financial report), or an integrated financial report - namely a single annual document containing both financial and non-financial information in accordance with industry standards.

ROLE OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS The SDGs encourage business to make sustainable development a central part of their business strategy to ensure organisations meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of generations to come.

Clients, employees, regulators, local communities, investors and other stakeholders are demanding that businesses take responsibility for sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the needs of generations to come. Organizations that integrate sustainability into their business will likely realize benefits as consumers and stakeholders reward those that demonstrate nstrate a social license to operate.

BDO’s range of sustainability resources aim to educate, guide and provide insights into this rapidly dly evolving global

INVESTMENT GUIDE

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BDO ST. MAARTEN transformation. BDO is committed to helping businesses around the world transform for a sustainable future. BDO guides our clients along their sustainability journey with a practical approach focused on value creation and material risk management.The time is now to start your journey with BDO.

the needs of an organization to operate erate effectively, e ely, and to actively pursue its future goals.

BDO’S TRANSFORMATION ON JOURNEY JO NEY

minimize the negative nega impact on both short- and long-term business goals.

A changing environment leads to new opportunities. An increasingly global world needs global services across all business lines and industries. To best support our clients, we will continue to build a strong and robust organization and we will focus on a number of truly global strategies, indispensable when supporting our clients in their own transformation journeys. We will focus on Audit, Tax and Advisory but, just as importantly on Risk & Quality, Technology, Sustainability, Talent and a number of International Business Areas.

Today we live in a data-driven world, one in which we are now confronted with resource scarcity. This shift has driven us to think and work differently. BDO’s commitment to invest in cutting-edge technology, digital transformation and new services has positioned us as a market leader in a world of opportunity. Our firms are now more connected than ever: we share resources to support our clients and we are committed to growing business together.

While it is impossible to eliminate all risk of a cyber-attack, a well-designed well-design pro-active cyber security program will

BDO’s Global Cybersecurity practice is comprised of professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds, including experienced IT, operations, and data privacy consultants, as well as forensic technology, business advisory, and accounting practitioners. We are built to provide comprehensive, customized services for each client, focusing on your specific operating model, technical demands, regulatory environment, and industry dynamics. Whether it’s financial services, healthcare, retail, natural resources, or any other industry – we understand your needs.

BDO’S GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY PRACTICE

As a business grows, information sharing grows along with it – with vendors, contractors, partners, and clients. And every one of these digital relationships presents a new set of cyber vulnerabilities. The Th need for security and the way in which it is implemented must mus be balanced, thoughtfully, against

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BDO ST. MAARTEN Our global footprint extends to every corner of the globe and so does cybercrime. Let us help your organization, wherever you are, to mitigate the cyber risks you’re facing.

DATA & ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SERVICES

In order to make the most effective and efficient business decisions, organizations must have the ability to access, analyze and act on their treasure trove of data. Companies that do this are outperforming the rest, with data-driven organizations achieving an average of 30% growth annually.

BDO Digital’s data science professionals understand the relationship of data analysis to real-world business decisions.

The right approach depends on a deep understanding of each organization’s operations, unique set of challenges, and goals.

Wherever you are in your Data & AI journey, the BDO Digital team will work with you to: ▪ Enable more informed decision-making; ▪ Create faster response times; ▪ Fuel better customer intelligence and innovation; ▪ Uncover new efficiencies, insights and areas of untapped growth;

BUSINESS SERVICES & OUTSOURCING

BDO Business Services & Outsourcing provides companies with a range of accounting, payroll and compliance services to support their growth and changing requirements within local markets and around the globe.

through one provider, delivered under one Master Services Agreement.

▪ Local Delivery with Central Coordination - local incountry experts in-conjunction with our central global service coordination team, delivered through a single point of contact.

▪ Improved reporting and planning – delivering regular and consistent reporting models.

▪ Flexibility – a tailored service delivered globally.

▪ Visibility – provides real time information on the status of projects, 24/7 via a single client portal to monitor delivery and manage risk.

ACCOUNTING WORKFLOW OPTIMIZATION

For the Dutch Caribbean region, we have developed an integrated online solution named Accounting Workflow Optimization (AWO) which streamlines the data processing required for your financial administration assisting you with the following: ▪ Better decisions, with better business intel; ▪ Up-to-date financial administration; ▪ Significant savings due to increased automation; ▪ Real-time insights into the business; ▪ More control over tax compliance; ▪ A trusted accountant-advisor at your side; To enable your digital transformation process, we concluded

We provide services which clients may find expensive to recruit or difficult to source, and also can combine these to provide a fully outsourced finance function, providing you with peace of mind and the support of a national and global network.

Whatever the size and ambition of your operations, BDO can manage your accounting and compliance burdens to leave you free to focus on your business goals.

The BDO global solution offers you: ▪ Consolidation – delivering operational efficiencies

agreements with all major banks operating in the Dutch Caribbean allowing automated import of your daily bank transactions. In parallel we have developed a digital solution capable to automatically process transactions based on the digital documents (e.g. purchase/sales invoices) provided by our clients.

In addition to the above, we developed BDO Analytics which offers you real-time insight into your financial administration, providing maximum control over your financial operations.

What BDO Analytics offers you: ▪ You know where you stand, e.g. in relation to goals; ▪ Really different: the figures are more up-to-date; ▪ Insight into your company’s financial performance anytime, anywhere; ▪ From basic collection, organizing, storage, booking to focusing on outcomes and control (‘control’);

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BDO ST. MAARTEN BD ▪ User-friendly and intuitive system; ▪ Quick & cost cost-effective insight into cause-effect ▪ Being able ab to make rapid adjustments based on KPIs ▪ Fro From steering on past results to looking ahead;

▪ We accommodate your existing technology; ▪ Continuity & quality of your financial processes and reporting, with involvement involvemen of trusted BDO financial (and tax) advisor.

For several years now, our office in St. Maarten experienced a steady growth grow under the leadership of Paul Lungu. Paul is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK) and, amongst other certifications, he has an MSc in Professional Accountancy from the University of London, UK and an MSc in Business Administration from Bucharest University of Economic Studies. Paul describes himself as an innovative professional with a business-like mentality. Other team members and clients recognized him as a balanced leader, adaptive with well-developed social intelligence skills.

Over the past 15 years’ experience in the profession, Paul has shown a proven experience in aligning business strategies and objectives and continuously developed himself from a merely technical auditor into a people focused leader, change agent and board room advisor.

111,307 people working out of 1,803 offices – and they’re all working towards one goal: to provide our clients with exceptional service.

Our firms across the organisation cooperate closely and comply with consistent operating principles and quality standards. That means local resources who understand your business, your local and international markets and the specifics of your industry: all backed by a highly recognized global organization.

BDO Dutch Caribbean is a group of companies consisting of a number of allied private companies. BDO has offices on the islands of Curaçao, Bonaire and St. Maarten. BDO is an international network of public accounting, tax and advisory firms which perform professional services under the name of BDO. Each BDO Member Firm is a member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, either as a voting or non-voting member.

A CLEAR VALUE PROPOSITION

BDO remains committed to our multi-disciplinary model. It ensures that our clients receive the best possible solutions, supported by BDO professionals who continue to upskill and deepen their understanding of our business and the markets that we operate in. Preserving a sufficient size and scale of our organization will equally ensure that we can continue to invest, allowing us to lead on quality and mitigate potential risks.

ST. MAARTEN BDO St. Maarten B.V. Sparrow Road 4, Philipsburg, ST. MAARTEN Tel: +1 721 543 0614 Fax: +1 721 543 0615 www.bdo.sx

BDO GLOBAL FINANCIAL RESULTS 2022

BDO announced a total combined fee income of 12.8 billion USD/11.8 billion EUR for the year ended 30 September 2022, representing a year-onyear growth of 12.1% at constant exchange rates (+20% in USD, +8.76% in EUR).

BDO’s global organisation extends across 164 countries and territories, with

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TAXATION TAX The Minister of Finance is politically responsible for the correct levying of taxes. Before taxes are implemented on the island, the St. Maarten Parliament must approve them.

MEDICAL INSURANCE PREMIUM ZV/AVBZ The abbreviations ZV/AVBZ stand for “Health Insurance”

PROFIT TAX (CORPORATE INCOME TAX)

and “General Insurance on Special Medical Expenses”. The

A levy of Profit Tax is applicable to corporations as public- and

AVBZ is a social insurance against risks that are difficult to

private limited liability companies, limited partnerships, other companies and associations whose capital is divided in shares, cooperatives, mutual guarantee companies, and associations whose capital is not divided in shares, foundations, private fund foundations and trusts that take aim at profit making.

The on-shore activities will be considered for tax and the offshore activities will be exempted. The law provides various incentives in order to stimulate investment. These incentives include credits on investments, depreciation acceleration, and tax holidays. (The latter is elaborated on in the tax holiday

premium for health insurance is 12.5% and is divided in 8.3% employer contribution and 4.2% employee contribution. The insure. This regards illnesses of long duration (chronic), long hospitalization, psychiatric nursing, relief and care of mentally and physically handicapped persons. The premium is 2% of the monthly salary and is divided in 1.5% on the account of the employee and 0.5% on the employer. Just as the wage tax, the employee contribution of the ZV and AVBZ is deducted from the salary of the employee and together with the employers contribution is paid to the SZV and the Receivers respectively.

section of incentives).

TURNOVER TAX (TOT)

WAGE TAX AND INCOME TAX

Turnover Tax is a tax on business-sales realized by

Wage tax is based on a P.A.Y.E. (Pay As You Earn) system. The

consumption tax and is not imposed on imports.

entrepreneurs or businesses in accordance with their business. This tax is an indirect tax with the character of a

employer has the responsibility of deducting wage tax and premiums from the salaries of employees and paying these amounts to the Island Receiver. Income tax is the summary of wage taxes and taxes on any other form of income. Wage tax is viewed as a pre-payment of income tax and is therefore deductible. Below is a table of income tax rates based on an

EXEMPTED ARE AMONG OTHERS: • The deliveries of goods and rendered services by entrepreneurs/businesses in the off-shore sector;

• The delivery of immovable properties as far as transfer tax (4%) is paid;

• The services of banks and other financial institutions for

annual income.

banking and financial performances with the exception of The abbreviations A.O.V. and A.W.W. stand for “General

loans and mortgages, the transfer of money, the saving of

Old Age Insurance” and “General Widow’s and Orphan’s

stocks and shares and other papers of value;

insurance”. Both employer and employee have to contribute to social security premiums. The percentages are:

• The services rendered to entrepreneurs/businesses in the off-shore sector performed by lawyers, legal and tax advisors, accountants, consultants, and notaries;

PREMIUM

EMPLOYER

EMPLOYEE

A.O.V. A.W.W.

7% 0.5%

6% 0.5%

• Turnover realized on transport services by aircraft or sea vessels.

The A.O.V / A.W.W. premiums are paid to the Social Insurance Bank (hereafter: SZV).

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TAXATION THE TURNOVER TAX RATE IS 5%: • Exempted are certain basic necessities (see article 17 of the Turnover tax Ordinance).

• Turnover realized by hotels (for the part of rental of

nts) are exempted insofar as hotel rooms and apartments) room tax is paid over the entire revenue of the rentals.

• There are several other exemptions mentioned ntioned in article 8 of the Turnover Tax Ordinance.

TAX TABLE ST. MAARTEN 2017 Income more than

But not more than

Tax

I

II

III

For each amount above the income mentioned in column I IV

0.00 31,390.00 47,086.00 65,397.00 98,093.00 138,638.00

31,390.00 47,086.00 65,397.00 98,093.00 138,638.00

0.00 3,923.77 7,062.75 11,869.27 22,904.40 39,122.35

12,5% 20% 26,25% 33,75% 40% 47,5%

© Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

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ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives INCENTIVES ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives THE GOVERNMENT ST. MAARTEN HAS ncentives incentives incentives OF incentives incentives incentives CREATED incentives A WIDE RANGE OF INCENTIVES TO incentives ncentives incentives incentives incentives ATTRACT INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS. ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives TAX HOLIDAY

The above mentioned conditions are cumulative; the tax

St. Maarten boasts an ideal climate for foreign investment and investment services, offering tax incentives for firms

exemption will only be honored if all the conditions have been met.

wishing to invest or establish companies to process their investments abroad. There are three areas of development that are specified for which a Tax Holiday can be considered.

• Hotels and other Rest & Recreational Accommodations • Land Development • Industrial

LAND DEVELOPMENT • There must be a minimum investment of $1.100.000 excluding the value of the land;

• The land must be fallow; • The minimum size of the parcel of land must be 2.5

THE SPECIFIC CONDITIONS THAT APPLY TO EACH AREA ARE: HOTELS AND OTHER REST & RECREATIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS • The application for the tax exemption must be for the exploitation of a hotel or other rest & recreational accommodation;

• The company mentioned above must be geared towards the enhancement of foreign visitors;

hectares;

• A road and other infrastructural facilities such as plumbing, water and electricity must be installed;

• Real estate must be developed; • The company must stimulate economic activity in St. Maarten;

• The company must stimulate employment in St. Maarten; • The company’s goal must be land development.

• The construction and primary furnishing should

These requirements are also cumulative.

encompass an investment of at least $561.798;

• The company is expected to contribute to the broadening of the economic base of St. Maarten;

• There must be a minimum of 25 rooms with a surface space of at least 30 square meters each;

• There must be a creation of permanent employment of

INDUSTRIAL • There must be a minimum investment of $83.303.330; • The company is expected to contribute to the broadening of the economic base of the island;

• There must be a creation of permanent employment of at

least 5 persons, excluding board members. ncentivesat leastincentives incentives incentives incentives incentives 5 persons. ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives These requirements are also cumulative. ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives 102 ncentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives INVESTMENT GUIDE

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incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive INCENTIVES incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive A detailed business plan including description and APPLICATION PROCEDURE incentives incentives incentives •incentives incentives incentive feasibility study of the project.

• The request for tax exemption should be submitted on incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive a form, which has been approved by the Governor. This •incentives Other relevant material incentives such as maps, drawings, or any incentives incentives incentive form can incentives be acquired from the Directorate of Taxes on other aid deemed relevant for illustration or clarification

the island.

may be annexed.

• The form must be filled out completely, a stamp attached, and forwarded to the Governor. Only one application per form is allowed. Incomplete forms will be rejected.

• The application must contain: - Data on the amount of employment the project will generate specified by local and foreign.

- Information on financing methods; whether funds will be acquired locally or internationally.

• The interested party will be given the opportunity to conduct an oral presentation of the project to the St. Maarten Tax Holiday Committee.

The Committee will then forward its advice to the Council of Ministers who in turn advises the Directorate of Taxes.

The Directorate of Taxes will then make the final decision and the candidate will be notified.

incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive 103 incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentive © Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

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FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT

T

he Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-

and professions. The FIU also disseminates the results of

governmental body established in 1989. Its mandate

aforementioned analysis. The Dutch abbreviation is the MOT

is to set standards and to promote effective

(Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transactie).

implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other related threats to the integrity of the financial

VISION A Sint Maarten community with financial and business sectors that are free of financial crime.

system.

The FATF has set out recommendations in order to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These recommendations have been adopted by over 180 countries and are universally recognized as the international standard for anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. The Dutch Kingdom is takes part in the FATF. Sint Maarten in his turn, as part of the Dutch Kingdom, participates as well in the FATF.

MISSION To protect the integrity of Sint Maarten’s financial system and contribute to the justice system through ever improving expertise in countering money laundering and the financing ex of terrorism. terro

INVESTIGATION The Sint Maarten government opted in its law for the reporting of unusual transactions. The FIU has an automated registry where mentioned unusual transactions reports are

According to FATF Recommendation 29, countries who participate in the FATF should establish a Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). There are three types of FIUs:

held.

The FIU’s functions as an administrative buffer between the reporting entities on the one hand and the law enforcement

Administrative FIU: autonomous operating entity

on the other hand. The FIU is established because of the

01 that receives, analyses and disseminates unusual or suspicious transactions.

Hybrid FIU: entity that receives, analyses and

02 disseminates suspicious transactions, but the law enforcement has direct access to that registry.

Police FIU: law enforcement agency that manages the

03 suspicious transactions registry.

The government of Sint Maarten has established an administrative FIU in October 2010.

The Sint Maarten FIU receives and analyses unusual transaction reports and other information relevant to money laundering, terrorist financing and associated predicate offences and supervises designated non-financial businesses 104

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FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT necessity of having an entity that, with its analysis, gives added

powers the FIU has is to instigate an investigation on-site

value to the (financial) transactions of the service providers

to determine whether the DNFBP is compliant or non-

in order to determine whether there is a suspicion of money

compliant. In case of non-compliance, enforcement measures

laundering of terrorism financing. When that suspicion is

can be imposed on the DNFBP.

confirmed, the suspicious transactions are forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

SUPERVISION According to FATF Recommendation 28, the Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) should be subject to supervision to ensure compliance with the The FIU Sint Maarten is the supervisory body for this group

You can contact the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Sint Maarten / Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transacties (MOT) Sint Maarten at:

of institutions.

Tel.:

anti-money laundering and terrorist financing requirements.

The supervision of these institutions is based on national law which in turn is based on the FATF Recommendations.

The two relevant ordinances are the National Ordinance

+1(721) 5423025 +1(721) 543 0826 +1(721) 543 0827 Fax: +1(721) 5430828 Email: analyst.department@fiu.gov.sx Courier mail can be sent to: P.O. box 5095, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Reporting Unusual Transactions (O.P. 2013, CT no. 479) and the National Ordinance Identification when Rendering Services (O.P. 2013, CT no. 480). One of the supervisory Se

FIU’s vision is a Sint Maarten community with financial and business sectors that are free of financial crime. © Number1411 / Shutterstock.com

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FINANCIAL SERVICES

T

HE CENTRAL BANK OF CURAÇAO AND SINT MAARTEN The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (previously the Bank of the Netherlands Antilles) is the central bank

of the former Netherlands Antilles. It is responsible for issuing the Netherlands Antillean guilder.

The Bank’s most important objectives are to maintain the external stability of the NAf. and to promote the efficient functioning of the financial system in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten.To realize these objectives, the Bank, as supervisory authority, has frequently recurred to credit control measures and/or to changing the discount rate. The functions of the Bank, explicitly summed up in the Bank Charter, are: First, the Bank is the only institution entitled by law to issue paper money in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten.The Bank also is charged with the circulation of coins.

Second, the Bank supervises banking and credit institutions to guarantee depositors and other creditors funds at banking and credit institutions in particular and the soundness of the financial sector in general.

Third, the Bank manages the foreign exchange reserves of the Netherlands Antilles, which includes regulating of the transfer Thir of payments payment between residents and nonresidents of the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten.

Finally, the Bank acts ass the government’s treasurer by receiving and a making payments from and to the public thro throuugh the tax collector’s accounts at the Central Bank.

To strengthen the Central Bank’s independent position vis-à-vis the government, the Bank Charter limits the monetary financing of budget deficits to 10% of the central government’s revenues in the previous year. This limitation must be seen in

The Bank’s most important objectives are to maintain the external stability of the NAf. and to promote the efficient functioning of the financial system in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten. © Sparkle1111112 / Shutterstock.com

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FINANCIAL SERVICES FINAN the context of an overdraft facility to meet liquidity deficits

the foreign exchange reserves of the Netherlands Antilles,

of the public sector that result from seasonal variations in

the Bank in the past has exerted control over the credit

government revenues.

extended by commercial banks.

MONETARY AND BANKING SUPERVISION Two of the Bank’s basic tasks are to control the amount of liquid assets in circulation (monetary supervision), and to act as the supervisory body for credit and banking institutions operating in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten (prudential supervision). Furthermore, the Bank is one of the

The prudential supervision of banking and credit institutions is aimed at controlling the soundness of the financial system in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten and at safeguarding the deposits of creditors at commercial banks.

This supervision is pursued mainly through the Bank’s analysis of the solvency and liquidity development of banking and credit institutions.

government’s main advisors on financial and economic affairs.

The monetary policy of the “Centrale Bank van Curacao en Sint Maarten” during the last two decades has been geared toward promoting a stable value of the NAf with respect to the US dollar. Since 1971 the official NAf/$ rate of 1.79 has been firmly supported by the monetary authorities. The Bank’s main reason for pegging the NAf to the US dollar is that over the years, more than 60% of its international trade

Central Bank of Curaçao and St. Maarten P.O. Box 193,WJA Nisbeth Road, Pondfill,

relations have been conducted with the United States or in US dollars. To maintain the dollar standard, the Bank must ensure a sufficient supply of foreign exchange. To manage

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Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-3520 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-4307

GENERAL INVESTMENT INVESTMEN INFORMATION NT T GUIDE

107

FINANCIAL SERVICES RBC ROYAL BANK CA Cannegieter Street 24, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-5908 Fax: 1 (721) 542-5964 Windward Side, Saba Tel: (599) 416-2454 Fax: (599) 416-2452

FIRST CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK LTD Backstreet 38, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-3511 / 2491 / 2567 Fax: 1 (721) 542-4531 Card Services: Tel: (Collect 0210) 001-246-431-5490 Fax 001-246-228-3996 Windwarde Side, Saba: Tel: (599) 416-2216 Fax: (599) 416-2475 Oranjestad, St. Eustatius: Tel: (599) 318-2392 Fax: (599) 318-2734

REPUBLIC BANK PHILIPSBURG Back Street #62, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-2262 / 3317 Transit Number: 71605

REPUBLIC BANK SIMPSON BAY Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Email: republicbank.an@rfhl.com

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS BANK LTD Main Office, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-2313 Fax: 1 (721) 542-4761 Bush Road Branch, Bush Road, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-7950 Fax: 1 (721) 542-7953 Orange Grove Branch, Cole Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 544-5490 Fax: 1 (721) 544-5491 Airport Road Branch, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 545-3063 Fax: 1 (721) 545-2130 Loan Center, Bush Road, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-9537 / 9536 Fax: 1 (721) 542-9258 Insurance Services, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-0000 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-5613 Bankcard Services:

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Codville Webster Road 2, Office space 2, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-3940 / 3422 Fax: 1 (721) 542-3251 Investments Services Office, Airport Road, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 545-3608 Fax: 1 (721) 545-3589 Telebanking: 100 | 1 (721) 543-7969 (international) Emal: info@wib-bank.net Website: www.wib-bank.net

BANQUE EUROPÉENNE DU CRÉDIT MUTUEL SINT MAARTEN - BECM BANK Tamarind Plaza, Union Road #133, Cole Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 546-0609

ORCO BANK Union Road #139 f, Union Plaza, Cole Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 544-4744 Fax: 1 (721) 544-4745 Email: info@orcobank.com

BANCO DI CARIBE Airport Boulevard 15, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 545-5002 Fax: 1 (721) 545-5036 Email: info@bancodicaribe.com Web: www.bancodicaribe.com

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S

EDUCATION SYSTEM ED

t. Maarten has a varied system, with a number of schools from nursery to higher education, nursery (2 - 4 years old); kindergarten schools (4 - 6 years old); primary (5 - 12 years old); secondary schools (12 - 18 years old). At the secondary levels schools are divided in academic and vocational schools.

There is flexibility with these schools and students can transfer in based on their grades.There are tertiary vocational schools and higher professional education schools. At the tertiary education students learn various professions such as secretaries, executive assistants, nurse’s assistants, clerks, carpentry, electrical work, mechanic, welding plumbing, boating, etc.

All schools use either Dutch or English as the medium of instruction and most schools are subsidized by the government, both public and private. Private schools have a religious foundation such as the Catholic, Methodist, Seventh Day Adventist, etc.

Notwithstanding their religious background, these schools are subsidized by the government. There are also non-subsidized private schools which operate independently and are mainly based on the American system with American history. Their language of instruction is English.

The higher education on St. Maarten includes the Teacher Education program and the Business program. The University of St. Martin has collaborated/partnered with various other universities in the Netherlands and Curaçao to ensure that programs provided have an accredited partner.

It is safe to state that anyone who moves to St. Maarten will be able to find a school for their children that will meet their need, as there is a variety to choose from and of good quality.

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UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN

T

he University of St. Martin (USM) is one of the main higher education providers on St. Maarten offering a variety of Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and non-degree programs. USM, with its motto “Your Key to a Brighter Future,” enrolls over 300 full-time and part-time students in the degree programs and over 150 in the non-degree programs.

The University offers enrichment courses such as the GED (General Education Development), the Pre-USM (a preparatory program which prepares students for academic programs, with a number of skills courses and completed with GED exams), ESL (English as a Second Language) and Dutch Naturalization.

The University continues to offer accredited programs such as an Associate of Arts Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management via the UK (BTEC) accreditation and an Associate of Arts Degree in General Liberal Arts, in a culturally diverse environment. USM prides itself in having over 800 alumni, many of whom continue to excel as accountants, managers, teachers, business owners, government administrators and other professionals.

The business arm of USM, “The School of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning” (SCELL), provides a winning mix of workshops and courses, geared toward improving professionals in the business community at large. Among collaborations with institutions of higher learning on a global level, The University of St. Martin is collaborating on a regional level with the University of the Virgin Islands under the moniker (UVI@USM) whereby, persons can earn NCATE accredited Bachelor and Master degrees rees in Business and Education.

USM’s campus is centrally located loc in Philipsburg and is within walking distance from businesses and government offices, banks, stores, supermarkets and restaurants. rest USM’s architecture is simple, blending into the niche on the entrance to Pond

“YOUR KEY TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE”

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UNIVERSITY RSITY OF ST. MARTIN Island, Soualiga Boulevard; offering an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Its intimate and picturesque garden also offers a soothing tranquility, conducive to studying and learning.

Founded in 1989 on the principle that education could improve the quality of life for people on St. Martin and the region, USM continues to be steadfast in its commitment to the community and aims to work towards developing an educated nation whereby, every household will have a member with an Associate’s degree or higher. For over 25 years, USM, with its knowledgeable and qualified pool of instructors, has been offering students the opportunity to discover their potential and assist them in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Rooted in the tradition of the University, is its relationship with business, civic and community organizations. The University and corporate partners, gain strength from these partnerships and derive mutual benefits from the networks these relationships provide. The future of the University of St. Martin continues to be shaped by its value, while catering to the needs and expectations of the students and the

AT USM, IT’S ALL ABOUT BENEFITS!

• The benefit of being able to choose from a variety of accredited degree programs;

• The benefit of quality academic and adult education; • The benefit of being at home, in the Caribbean with family and friends while pursuing an education;

• The benefit of affordable tuition and small classes where personalized attention is the norm;

• The benefit of having a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs in which to participate;

• The benefit of transferring to several schools in the

region, U.S., Europe or Canada if desired by student.

community. By providing students with focused instruction and personal attention, USM offers the virtues of a small college, with curricular richness and disposition of a large university.

University of St. Martin 1 Soualiga Road P.O. Box 836 Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1-721-542-5171 / 542-3156 / 542-3674 Fax:1-721-542-5226 www.usm.sx

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 13

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INVESTMENT GUIDE IN

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PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

H

er majesty, Princess Juliana International Airport is once again making the necessary preparations to make its return to regional leadership…and the whole world is watching.There are ongoing plans to ensure that a “state of the art” airport is unveiled in 2022, as the start of the reconstruction of the terminal building project is scheduled

to be in full swing during the third quarter of 2020.

Currently, the airport’s “Package 1 – Temporary Operations” have returned into the terminal building since December 15, 2018. The accomplishment was realized over a year after hurricane Irma, Maria and Jose devastated the roof and the terminal building on September 6, 2017. The natural disaster forced the airport community to utilize several makeshift facilities from October 10, 2017 through late 2018.

Today, only 35% of the terminal building is being used to accommodate commercial travelers, however the temporary orary operations

are fully air-conditioned and consists of 10 boarding gates, 32 common use check-in counters, a variety ety of concession stands and both in and out bound immigration check points. Following the natural disaster, the Managing ging Board now has the daunting task to reverse the gears of the award-winning airport and return to a reconstruction phased plan approach. Furthermore, the Project Management team with the assistance from the Royal Schiphol Group stands accountable for the project entitled “Package 2 – Reconstruction of the Terminal Building.”

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

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PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT The ultra-modern international airport on the island of St.

to retail and food and beverage concessions. The island’s

Maarten, handled an average of 1.8 million people annually

central and strategic geographic location in the region, has

with approximately 170 aircraft movements a day before

resulted in its airport becoming a primary hub, connecting St.

the hurricane, making it one of the busiest in the region,

Maarten/St. Martin and the surrounding islands, particularly

served by 22 scheduled airlines and a dozen charters with

Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barth, Tortola, St. Kitts and

direct service to some 33 destinations/cities. The airport

Nevis to the rest of the world. Its latest campaign post

is responsible for 60% of the GDP of the island, which is

hurricane is “Rebuild. Recover. Reinvent – Forward Together”

significant for the economic growth. The airport is owned by a government holding company (PJIAH) and operated by

After 75 years of evolution, the SXM Airport transformed

PJIAE N.V, each with its own Supervisory Board of Directors.

from a humble World War II air base for the US military,

With a staff complement of approximately 269 employees,

into an ultra-modern, world-class facility which went through

the airport community, however, consists of about 1,000

“generational changes” such as the construction of new

persons working for some 80 businesses that includes

terminals which also cements its role as the major engine

airlines and aviation service providers, VIP’s, bus services,

moving the island’s tourism economy forward and the

cargo operators, Police team, car rental agents, immigration,

economies of some of the neighboring islands it serves as

customs, wheelchair services and airline security, in addition

a hub.

The airport is responsible for 60% of the GDP of the island, which is significant for the economic growth.

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PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Safety and security are the two main pillars of operations

Returning concessions like Subway, AMA Duty Free, Dutch

at SXM Airport. It has an impeccable safety record and is

Delight, Domino’s Pizza, Market by Villa, Taloula’s Flights,

constantly upgrading its staff and equipment to ensure that

Relay, ESCA, Shipwreck Shop, Gouda Liquor Store, Le

those who use its facilities feel safe and secure. Equipped

Bistro by Bacchus, ILTT Duty Free, Aunt Clara’s Ice Cream

with a state-of-the-art ATC Tower and Radar facility,

and Johney Burgers are all available to the travelers and

Category 9 Fire and Rescue Service, and General Security

partially to the public. The new F&B concept includes food

and Centralized Pre-screening, safety is top priority. The

trucks on the land side of the property. The airport also

safety record of the airport is among the best anywhere in

features the immigration and emigration booths, offices, the

the region and beyond.

reinstatement of the existing air-conditioning and sprinkler systems, the installation of the fire alarm and public-address

Designed to handle about 2.5 million passengers annually,

systems, CCTV surveillance and IT systems.

management are preparing for the increased passenger capacity as they’ve constructed the “Package 1A” project,

The Baggage Claim area has one carousel with Baggage

which is a temporary expansion of the make-shift area,

Information Display System (BIDS) monitors. Car rental and

offering an additional 250+ seating expanse. The area is fully

VIP services are also offered near the arrival area.

air-conditioned and has an additional 3 boarding gates.

SXM Airport offers airside passenger transportation by bus, The airport has an airside Departure Hall with a complete

Aircraft Fueling, Ramp Handling Service (push-back), and

duty-free retail and food & beverage concession layout.

General Aviation services for the private and corporate jet

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

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PRINCESS JULIANA A INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT sector. In order to accommodate the tremendous growth in

the Government of St. Maarten, dedicated to upholding

this aviation segment, the airport has a Fixed Base Operations

the principles of good corporate governance as stipulated

(FBO) building complete with office space, private lounges

in the Corporate Governance code and the internal Code

and dedicated customs and security screening.

of Conduct policy. Its philosophy also embraces the notion of good corporate citizenship, not only as a part of the

SXM Airport is a leading private jet destination in the region,

Corporate Social Responsibility but also more importantly in

handling over 6,500 private jets annually.The airport was once

being actively involved in the social, educational, cultural and

again successfully short-listed in the 2019 PrivateFly Scenic

sporting development of the island. It makes its community

Airport poll. The future goals include the reconstruction of

identifying the airport as its own, as well as an integral part

the Fixed Base Operations (FBO) building and the anticipated

of the socioeconomic development of the island.

Pre-Clearance project, which will enable SXM Airport to increase its market share in this sector.

A separate cargo facility exists near the terminal building, it was designed to handle more than 10,000 tons of cargo per year. SXM Airport is a strategic institution owned by

The island’s central and strategic geographic location in the region, has resulted in its airport becoming a primary hub...

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

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PORT ST. MAARTEN

T

he development and management of the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities is overseen by the Port St. Maarten Group (PSG), a government-owned consortium of 13 companies responsible for part of the maritime operations of the country.

The operations of the consortium can be neatly summarized as what it calls the ‘four pillars’ of Cruise, Cargo, Yachting and Real estate. The Group operates and has responsibility for the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility at Point Blanche, the Harbour Pointe Village, the Captain Hodge Pier in Philipsburg, the fuel station at Great Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority, which is responsible for the Simpson Bay Bridge.

The Group has diversified its activities into real estate ownership and port consultancy as well as owning and operating the port’s two mobile harbor cranes.

PSG employs 85+ people in 11 departments: Accounting, Human Resources, Executive, Clearance, Maintenance, Information Technology, Safety & Security, Maritime, Terminal & Cargo, Commercial and Operations.

ST. MAARTEN FIRST TO HANDLE NEW GENESIS-TYPE VESSELS It was one of the first ports in the Caribbean to be able to handle the new Genesis-type cruise ships, the largest in the world.

It is also attracting a growing number of shipping lines looking for a transhipment sub-hub they can rely on.

St. Maarten’s duty-free status has always been a marketing advantage for visitors and shippers alike. In addition, the Port St. Maarten Group wants to take things to the next level. Never content to rest on its laurels, it is always seeking new opportunities to deliver a wider range of quality services to its partners.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN In order to achieve this, Port St. Maarten keeps in close

an accident of location – although that helps – but more the

contact with cruise lines, shipping lines and other industry

result of a systematic approach and good customer focus by

players to keep informed about what they need and when

Port St. Maarten, which is keen to provide the best facilities

they will need it. By staying ahead of the game, Port St.

in the industry. This is one of the benefits of holding long-

Maarten is always in a good position to accommodate new

term agreements with the major lines.

vessels and new customers.

In 2007, with one berth already in operation capable of Port St. Maarten has maintained St. Maarten’s competitive

accommodating four cruise ships simultaneously, Port

edge in the north-east Caribbean through constant research

St. Maarten took the facility to the next level and built a

and strategic planning as well as through partnerships

second cruise pier. St. Maarten is now one of the few ports

and collaborations with leading industry players. These

in the Caribbean capable of receiving the world’s largest

associations have led to dynamic growth in all sectors.

cruise ships. These are the Genesis-class vessels of over 220,000 gross tons each with a capacity of more than 6,000

Over the past decades the Group has as invested inve more ore than

passengers and crew.

US$100 million into infrastructure and equipment and the focus for the future is on investing in personnel and processes

Pier 1 is 545 metres in length and can accommodate up

to continue to improve efficiency. Over the same timeframe

to four vessels simultaneously. Pier 2, with a length of 445

Port St. Maarten has been transformed into a much more

meters, was opened in 2009 and can accommodate two

commercially orientated operation.

Genesis-class vessels. It also has two booths for screening passengers as this cannot be carried out on board owing to

A milestone was reached in 2014 when over two million

the large number of passengers.

cruise passengers were received.This success is not so much

...one of the first ports in the Caribbean to be able to handle the new Genesis-type cruise ships, the largest in the world.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN The port accommodates six cruise ships, with the terminal

numerous benefits to the island as visioned by pioneer Dr.

handling anything from 6,000 to more than 20,000 passengers

A.C.Wathey. The island has seen progressive growth and has

in a single day. Immediately on coming ashore, passengers

become the destination of choice #1 Port in the Caribbean.

are welcomed into the Harbour Point Village to the sound of steel pans being played. Built in an architectural style

Port St. Maarten management on Wednesday, July 7, 2021,

reminiscent of old Philipsburg, the Village contains duty free

met with Celebrity Edge Captain Kate McCue at the gangway

outlets, souvenir shops and market stalls as well as bars and

upon arrival of the cruise ship to destination St. Maarten,

a restaurant.

the first transit call to the country since the onset of the pandemic and presented a token of appreciation on behalf

Harbour Point Village is also the pick-up and drop-off point

of the port and the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Captain

for most of the tours and excursions. Visitors will find tour

Kate was ecstatic when it was mentioned that coincidentally

bus stands and a taxi rank here. There is also a regular water

Celebrity Edge was the last commercial ship that visited the

taxi service to Philipsburg. Friendly harbour staff is on hand

destination back in March 2020.

to assist visitors and there is an information centre in the main building to provide advice to visitors.

WALTER PLANTZ SQUARE The Walter Plantz Square (WPS) at Down Street offers cruise

HISTORIC MOMENT IN CRUISE RESUMPTION

passengers the opportunity to visit and sample the products and services available in several ginger-bread houses that

On Saturday, June 5, 2021, officially marked the resumption

reflects the national heritage of destination St. Maarten.

of cruise tourism after 15-months of no commercial cruise traffic to the destination. This was a momentous occasion

WPS is complete with the essential amenities: bar/restaurant,

for Port St. Maarten and the destination overall, as never in

arts and crafts, and a beautiful water fountain adorned by palm

the history of the island has there been a period of a year

trees; splash pool for kids; toilet/bathroom facilities; disabled

and half without cruise tourism.

accessible and much more.

Thursday June 3rd, 2021, marked the 57th anniversary of the

Come and experience the Walter Plantz Square at Down

existence of port facilities (A.C. Wathey Pier) on the island,

Street next to the beach promenade with easy access ess to Front

more than half a century. Since then, the destination has sailed

Street – duty-free shopping mecca of the Caribbean.

into the opportunity of cruise tourism which has brought

© Port St. Maarten

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PORT ST. MAARTEN HOMEPORTING – NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN PORT OF CHOICE Based on various homeporting case studies, Port St. Maarten has been ranked as one of the top cruise port destinations in the Caribbean where quality of facilities is concerned.

Destination St. Maarten came in top ranking for shopping experience, and port/destination services that are offered to the cruise industry. Port St. Maarten has developed a longterm working relationship with cruise brands and at the same time is the north-east ti rth-eastern Caribbean homeport of choice.

Port St. Maarten has placed emphasis on luxury cruise brands that translate into more spending power of passengers based on their higher disposable income levels. This also shifts the destination from quantity to quality cruise tourism therefore increasing the destination value due to attracting other highend brand lines.

Home porting is nothing new for the destination as the country has had the opportunity to handle smaller vessels of under 500 passengers up to mid-sized vessels of 1000+.

The homeporting of Celebrity Cruise Lines Celebrity Millennium in June 2021 was the largest homeporting vessel to participate in operations at the country’s main seaport.

Homeporting generates more airlifts in and out of the destination; brings additional business for local loc service providers; and creates the potential for pre- and post- cruise extension visits.

© Port St. Maarten

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PORT ST. MAARTEN CARGO AND HANDLING SECTOR AT PORT ST. MAARTEN

of duties in the port, not least of which is container handling.

Effective and efficient cargo handling comes as standard at

At the southern end of the port a breakwater protects the

Port St. Maarten’s Captain David Cargo Quay located at

container yard from the worst of the storms and hurricanes

the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility. The terminal

that occasionally hit the island. There are two ro-ro berths,

has expanded symbiotically with its customers’ needs over

at the southern and northern ends, as well as an Inter-Island

the years and is now a regional sub-hub for container

Pier serving the local region.

Each year the port handles thousands of teu’s and acts as a feeder port for many of the smaller islands nearby.

transhipment, serving a wide range of carriers as well as the all-important domestic market.

As well as handling inter-island vessels, St. Maarten serves as a transhipment hub for the islands of Anguilla, Montserrat, St.

The cargo sector is a vital part of the nation’s economy, not

Barths, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda and the

only in terms of generating revenue, but also because most

Eastern Caribbean.

of the food and consumer goods needed by islanders are imported by sea. For this reason, it is vitally important for the

TRANSSHIPMENT

whole operation to be streamlined and well managed.

The main focus of Port St. Maarten continues to be on trans-shipment. St. Maarten offers numerous advantages

FACILITIES

over its competitors. In addition to its central geographic

The Captain David Cargo Quay is 500 meters long with a

location, there has been considerable investment in new

depth alongside of 10.5 meters, having been extended from

infrastructure, equipment, the Global Logistics System (GLS)

270 meters under the 2007-9 expansion program.The facility

software platform, the Port Community System (PCS) and

is served by two Gottwald HMK mobile harbour cranes, with

streamlining of crane operations. All these improvements

a lifting capacity of 100 – 120 tonnes. These perform a range

have helped to make St. Maarten a competitive as well as an

© Haboco / Shutterstock.com

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PORT ST. MAARTEN efficient choice for shippers. The port operates on a 24/7

together. This partnership is typical of the symbiotic

basis and there is easy deep-water access to the berths.

relationship that exists between the port and many of the lines that call. For some lines, St. Maarten is the first port of

In addition, increased economic activities on the island and

call from Europe and this situation means that it fulfills a vital

on neighbouring islands means increased volumes of project

role as a feeder port for inbound cargo that is destined for

cargo will be shipped through St. Maarten.

other local islands.

SERVICES

The introduction of the GLS software allowed the whole port

Port St. Maarten became a landlord port in 2001. The aim was to give the port greater commercial flexibility as well to create and maintain a competitive edge. As a result, cargo handling operations are now carried out by the port’s two stevedores. A wide range of equipment is available at the quay including reach stackers, top lifters, yard mules, chassis, trucks as well as fork-lifts and other equipment. Island-wide transportation services are readily accessible using a large fleet of chassis and trucks. In addition, there are many related services such as container repair, and third-party logistics services.

to be fully automated. Containers are tracked and monitored using mobile tracking devices, and all documentation and invoicing is carried out in real-time. Containers and trucks are scanned when entering and leaving the port to create a full picture of port operations at all times. Other services including water provision, bunkering, and waste oil can all be booked through the online GLS portal.

PRODUCTIVITY One of the key elements of the port’s success is the close cooperation between the stevedores and the port

Cargo services have grown in parallel with the volumes handled as the port aims to meet all its customers’ needs.

One of the first liner services chose to call at St. Maarten

management as they work towards a common goal, investing as demand dictates. The result is a high level of customer satisfaction among the lines using the port’s services.

due to the port’s flexibility and the willingness to expand

Effective and efficient cargo handling comes as standard at Port St. Maarten’s Captain David Cargo Quay...

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PORT ST. MAARTEN Following the latest changes to operations and infrastructure

The main facilities for yachts are in Simpson Bay Lagoon, in

improvements, St. Maarten now offers some of the best

the west of the island. The national frontier passes through

productivity ratings in the region. Its GLS software has

the lagoon, which has both Dutch and French sides. The

improved the speed of clearance from days to just minutes,

Dutch side includes most of the major marinas and a wide

while crane operations are achieving high rates of moves per

range of service companies and suppliers.

hour. All things considered, the future for St. Maarten’s cargo sector – and its transshipment business – is bright indeed.

Yachting is regarded as a major growth area and the

The port is seen as a facilitator of growth for the island and

Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) has

there is widespread optimism that this growth will continue.

plans to further market and expand this sector. The SLAC is a subsidiary of the Port St. Maarten Group of Companies

PORT ST. MAARTEN CATERS TO GIGA YACHTS St. Maarten has developed into one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting destinations, hosting some of the most exclusive and luxurious vessels in the world as well as having a thriving long-term and stopover cruising sector.

with responsibility for the lagoon and the John Sainsborough Lejuez Bridge, which spans the only channel in Dutch St. Maarten between the lagoon and the sea.

There is a packed sailing program all year round organized by the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, the principal event being the

St. Maarten has developed into one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting destinations... © Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

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PORT ST. MAARTEN St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, which brings together yachts

Fueling services are also available to giga yachts in Great Bay.

of all sizes from across the region for a week of competitive

Port St. Maarten has worked in partnership with the fuel

racing.

supplier Sol to install a fuelling station at the Windjammer

Yachts up to a maximum beam of 56 ft (17 meters) and a

berth. The subsidiary St. Maarten Harbour Fuelling Company

maximum draft of 17.0 ft (5.0 meters) can enter the Simpson on

NV operates this facility and handles all the refuelling

Bay Lagoon through the John Sainsborough Lejuez Bridge. ge.

operations. operation

GIGA YACHTS

FUEL STATION

Giga yachts and vessels too large to enter the lagoon can be

The fuel station, opened in 2011, was set up specifically to

catered for elsewhere, including at designated Windjammer

handle giga yachts unable to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon

berths beside at the cruise facility in Great Bay, or can berth

owing to depth restrictions. The facility has tanks for storage

alongside the cruise pier depending on the cruise ship

of fuel for delivery at the berths. Larger volumes can be

schedule.

delivered by road tanker.

© byvalet / Shutterstock.com

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PORT ST. MAARTEN PORT ST. MAARTEN DETAILS AUTHORITY Port St. Maarten Group of Companies, Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities J.Yrausquin Boulevard, PO Box 5185 Harbour Village Suite #13A, Point Blanche, St. Maarten Tel: + 1 721 542 8503, 542 8504 Fax: + 1 721 542 8506 Email: buzz@portstmaarten.sx www.portstmaarten.com www.facebook.com/portstmaarten

APPROACH Deep-water approach to all terminals.

Only hazard on approach is the Proselyte Reef.

FACILITIES Captain David Cargo Quay: 500 meters (1,642 ft) long with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) draught alongside. In the future, the draft will be increased to 11.5 meters (39.5 ft) to accommodate the FLV vessels.

Inter-Island Cargo Facility: Berthing space for inter-island vessels of 100 meters (328 ft) length.

Ro-Ro (North) Berth 1: 12 meters length, with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) depth.

Ro-Ro (South) Berth 2: 12 meters length, with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) depth.

Cruise Pier 1: 545 meters (1,790 ft) long, 691 meters (2,270 ft) including dolphin, 12.0 meters (39.5 ft) depth alongside.

Cruise Pier 2: 445 meters (1,460 ft) long, 12.0 meters (39.5 ft) depth alongside.

124

WINDJAMMER BERTHS: Windjammer West: 65 meters (213 ft) long, 6.5 meters (21.5 ft) depth.

Windjammer North: 100 meters (328 ft) long, 6.5 meters (21.5 ft) depth.

There is a fuelling station for mega yachts near the windjammer berths.

Water taxi berth: 5 berths

AIRPORT

half a mile from Point Blanche-Fort Amsterdam.

RADIO INFORMATION VHF Channel 12.

RO-RO FACILITIES Ro-ro berths are available at the north and south ends of the main cargo quay.

Princess Juliana International Airport is about 20 minutes from the seaport area with connections to Europe and the USA as well as regional services.

STORAGE

ANCHORAGE

STEVEDORING

Good anchorage can be found in 12.19 meters (40 ft) of water in Great Bay.

BUNKERS Available from port authority.

CRANES St. Maarten Harbour Crane Company owns and operates two 100 tonne Gottwald harbour cranes.

HANDLING EQUIPMENT Two Gottwald 100 tonne capacity harbour cranes owned and operated by St. Maarten Harbour Crane Company St. Maarten Ports Authority works in partnership with two main stevedoring companies, which operate a range of handling equipment at the port.

LARGEST VESSEL The cruise piers can accommodate vessels of up to 220,000 gt. The cargo quay can accommodate vessels of up to 10,000 to 12,000 gt.

PILOTAGE

There is a container yard with a capacity of 3,000 teu and 30 reefer plugs.

Stevedoring is available in the port.This service has been outsourced to two private companies.

TIDES Negligible tide in St. Maarten: maximum of 1 ft.

TOWAGE Towage is available in the port. This service has been outsourced to a private company.

TRANSPORT Overland transport is provided by both stevedoring companies using a large fleet of trucks and chassis.

WASTE Waste oil and black water removal and glass recycling services are available.

WATER Fresh water is available.

WORKING HOURS The port operates on a 24/7 basis.

Pilotage is compulsory through the St. Maarten Port Authority. Vessels should await pilot at a maximum distance of

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PORT ST. MAARTEN

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125

TELECOMMUNICAT TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN

T

he TelEm Group of Companies is the proud local Telecommunications provider on Sint Maarten. The company is small on a global scale, but a giant when to comes to setting its telecommunication ambitions. TelEm is the only Quad Play provider on Sint Maarten, offering 4G LTE Mobile services, landline, fixed internet, and IPTV services to its residents,

businesses and visitors.

We are currently rolling out Fiber to the Home (FTTH), replacing our copper (DSL) network, ensuring a reliable, high-speed and future-proof internet connection for everyone. Neither Hurricane Irma in 2017 nor the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019/2020 have slowed our ambitions. Indeed, they have only accelerated it. Operating in a hurricane zone strengthens our resolve to put our high-speed infrastructure underground so that service recovery time after any storm is minimal. The increased demand for high-speed internet at home has also resulted in stepped up efforts to roll out FTTH even faster.

With fiber, we now offer a more reliable connection, with more upload and download speed for an affordable price, which is

what our customers have demanded from us in these trying economic times.

ST. MAARTEN TELECOMMUNICATION HOLDING COMPANY N.V. (TELEM GROUP)

© TelEm Group

126

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TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN As a local Telecommunication provider,TelEm Group takes its

all experts expect that this trend will not simply disappear

Corporate Social Responsibility very seriously. Over the past

but a new educational system which will combine in person

years we have engaged in numerous social initiatives to help

and online classes.To facilitate this new development,TelEm is

residents and businesses. Actions like these firmly establish

putting in place a robust, secure, reliable, fast network today.”

TelEm Group as THE local Telecommunications Provider of which the residents of Sint Maarten are justly proud, and

Oversight of the company is provided by the Supervisory

have been able to rely on, showing their appreciation by

Board of Directors, St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding

voting the company #1 Telecommunication provider for St.

Company N.V. (SBOD – SMTHC NV), consisting of up

Maarten on consecutive occasions.

to seven board members who report to the Shareholder Representative, in the person of the Prime Minister Ms.

Despite the company’s driving ambition, and Fiber to the

Silveria Jacobs and the Council of Ministers (COM).

Home roll out, TelEm Group is not resting on its laurels. We are continuing to improve our Mobile Network, preparing

About the Company

for future developments like Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and 5G, and continuously working on improving our coverage.

Our Television content is also constantly improving.With the launch of TelTV+ in 2021, TelEm now offers a great range of up to 150 HD and SD channels for residents, hotels, timeshare and other businesses.

TelEm Group is presently headed by Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) Mr. Kendall Dupersoy, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Mr. Michiel Parent.

The CEO, Mr. Dupersoy, views telecommunications landscape as ever-changing: “Only a few short years ago, internet speeds of 100 Megabit or even 1 Gigabit going to a home was inconceivable. Nowadays, speeds of up to 2 or 3 Gigabit to a residential home is quickly

St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. ( a.k.a.TelEm Group) The Sint Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. is a governmentowned company established in 2007 with the Island Government of St. Maarten as sole shareholder with its main office located on Pond Island in the heart of the capital, Philipsburg, and branch offices at the Skyport Building in Simpson Bay and at the Port St. Maarten harbor.

becoming commonplace. The need for more speed is not so much driven by the telecommunications industry but by the consumer market. With the increased functionality of smart phones and now the new trend of smart homes with highlevel security, consumers now require high speed internet.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, education moved online and

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BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATIONS & POST

A

BOUT US

Having such an infrastructure will not solely serve to enhance

Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten (BTP) is the independent regulatory authority for

the Telecommunications and Post industry in St. Maarten.

the quality of life on St. Maarten but shall also enhance the overall business viability within the industry even in a small economy of scale.

The Geographic location of St. Maarten and the demographics

WHO ARE WE? BTP regulates telecommunications and post industries to maintain a competitive environment in St. Maarten. We consult with industry participants and stakeholders, focusing on attaining quality and affordable services for all.

of St. Maarten present the potential for St. Maarten to position and establish itself as a leading Telecommunications Hub in the region. Such an achievement would enable service offering exceeding national borders. This vision is being executed in line with the direction stipulated by the

BTP commenced its task on October 10th, 2010 as the independent regulatory authority of new country St. Maarten.

BTP strives to attain a balanced environment in which consumer interests are protected. We create and maintain the foundation to support the introduction of new technologies and services which will promote socioeconomic development and overall growth of the nation.

Government of the Island Territory of St. Maarten, formulated in its 2008 Telecommunications policy: “A competitive and NGN supportive environment which shall attract investments for further growth; Universal Access to all, establishment and promotion of E-Commerce, Health, and Education, research, training and Development in ICTs. The establishment of St. Maarten as regional telecommunications hub, serving as the connecting link between the Caribbean and the United States of America.”

VISION BTP regulates and guide the telecommunications, post and utilities infrastructures and their developments. We maintain proper grounds and standards to stimulate and facilitate the continued introduction of new technologies and services on short and long term.

The vast telecommunications developments over the years on St. Maarten are indicative of our potential and capabilities, to serve a much larger market than our own. This Telecommunications Policy, which is the first Telecommunications Policy for the Country St. Maarten,

BTP strives to attain a balanced environment in which consumer interests are protected.

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BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATIONS BU NS & POST serves as the basis for a competitive, consumer and provider friendly telecommunications environment. Enhancing the quality of life through telecommunications is the ultimate goal.

• Inspections and examination of telecommunication equipment and infra structure.

• Issuance of compliance certificates.

• Issuance of certificates and letters of authorization for telecommunication educational programs.

WHAT WE DO

• Set guidelines to prevent and resolve network quality

GENERAL:

• Issuance of warnings, fines and attachments/ liens on

issues and complaints. equipment in case of non-compliance or violation with

• Development of policies for the telecommunication and post industry.

• Implementation and execution of task as established by

telecommunication require and regulations.

• Revoking of licenses.

• Issuance of certification and letters of authorization for specific maritime radio communication.

the Minister of telecommunication.

• Preparation of the rules and regulation and laws for

• Administration, issuance of invoices and collection of

telecommunication and post for country St. Maarten.

payments related to the telecommunication sector;

• Execution of responsibilities and task according to the

including legal collection measures.

“landsverordening” telecommunication and post.

• Where necessary on instruction of the Council of Ministers, represent and defending the interest of country St. Maarten related to telecommunication and post; national, regionally and internationally.

IN THE AREA OF POST:

• Issuance of licenses and permits according to article 13.1

• General advice to the minister and members of parliament.

• General advice and execution of responsibilities and task

• Administration, issuance of invoices and collection of

for government services and third parties related to the

payments related to the Post sector; including legal

minister and members of parliament.

collection measures.

“Postlandsverondering” 1998.

• Execution of other activities as instructed by the Minister of telecommunication.

• Execution of other activities in accordance with the “landsverordening”.

IN THE AREA OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

• Issuing licenses for radio frequencies and telecommunication equipment and infrastructure.

• Managing of radio frequencies.

• Issuance of numbers and managing the number plan for

Contact Us: Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten Cannegieter Street #15 - Unit 5.1, Phillipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: +1(721) 542-4699 Fax: +1(721) 542-4817 Email: info@sxmregulator.sx

St. Maarten.

• Issuance of approvals for test standards.

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TOURISM

PHILIPSBURG.............................................................................................................. 132 MAP OF PHILIPSBURG............................................................................................. 144 SIMPSON BAY............................................................................................................. 147 MAP OF SIMPSON BAY, COLE BAY, MAHO, MULLET BAY........................... 153 MAHO VILLAGE......................................................................................................... 154 CUPECOY ‘THE RIVIERA’........................................................................................ 155 ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU........................................................................ 156

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PHILIPSBURG

SHOPPING MECCA OF THE NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN

SINT MAARTEN IS A DUTY FREE SHOPPER’S PARADISE

© byvalet / Shutterstock.com

D

uty Free Shopping

The Americas now represents more than one quarter of global duty free sales of which the Caribbean alone stands

According to a study on Duty Free Shopping in the

for an impressive and important close to half the share. Very

Caribbean, the global duty free trade has developed rapidly

few regions in the world can compete with the Caribbean in

over the past 50 years, from a very modest beginning in 1947

terms of relative duty free performance with regard to the

to a multi-billion dollar industry today.

geographic size of the region.

Fifty-two years ago the duty free industry saw the light of day

The Caribbean provides some of the best shopping

for the first time when a small whiskey and tobacco store

experiences in the world, but Sint Maarten is different. One

opened at Shannon Airport, Ireland. At that time, just after

of the joys of vacationing in Sint Maarten is that it is duty

World War II, it was logical that Shannon’s advantageous and

free! Great values can be had because prices are among the

strategic position on the west coast of Ireland should be the

lowest in the Caribbean. Certainly much less than prices you

final refueling stop, before the final 2500 mile trip to New

would pay in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

York.

With no duties on jewelry, leather goods, cameras, gold, From this point onwards, airport authorities in Europe and

perfumes, cosmetics, watches, china, crystal, linen and much

elsewhere started realizing the potential of non-aviation

more from around the world, Sint Maarten is a duty free

income that could be generated by duty free shops.

shopper’s paradise. The best places to shop on the Dutch in

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PHILIPSBURG [WELCOME TO THE CAPITAL OF DUTY FREE SHOPPING] side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson

Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten is built on a sand

Bay, Maho Reef, and Cupecoy.

ridge. From the sleepy village to the bustling town with over a mile of duty free stores mainly jewelry, electronics, local

New additions to duty free shopping have been added

Caribbean arts and crafts, watches, alcohol and tobacco, fine

such as the “Puerta Del Sol Plaza,” a new extension to the

cigars, camera’s, perfumes, art galleries, and much more.

Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping open mall area and “Porto

The town has a lot to offer the visitor. Shopping is one of

Cupecoy.” Wherever you go, you’ll find the best products the

the best reasons to take a break from the beach and water

island’s expanding duty-free sector has to offer.

sports to explore what Philipsburg has to offer.

Travelers in the know are taking a close look at the goods

There are approximately 500 duty free shops on the island.

being produced by local artisans. Caribbean crafts people

Duty-free stores are mainly located on Front Street. The

bring to their work a rich and colorful blend of African and

Front Street location offers various stores, great access to

European influences that make up their culture.

the cruise ship passengers that arrive via three cruise ship

© CKP1001 / Shutterstock.com

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LA CASA DEL HABANO favorite cigar? Each lounge area is a masterpiece of comfort and elegance, inviting you to unwind, connect, and create memories that linger long after the smoke has cleared.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet nook to escape into your thoughts or a vibrant space to share laughter with friends, our haven is yours to explore.

A CONVENIENT OASIS IN THE HEART OF PHILLIPSBURG

INDULGE IN LUXURY AT LA CASA DEL HABANO ST. MAARTEN:YOUR PREMIER CIGAR EXPERIENCE IN SUN-KISSED ST. MAARTEN Are you ready to embark on the ultimate luxury cigar journey on the enchanting shores of St. Maarten? Look no further than La Casa del Habano St. Maarten, where we invite you to savor the finest cigars and spirits in an ambiance of elegance and refinement.

A HUMIDOR LIKE NO OTHER At La Casa del Habano St. Maarten, we take pride in offering you an unrivaled selection of Cuban cigars meticulously curated by our expert team. Step into our humidor, a sanctuary dedicated to the art of Cuban cigar craftsmanship, and be captivated by our collection. From the elusive Cohiba to the timeless allure of Monte Cristo, the bold flavors of Partagas and many more prestigious and respected cigar brands - our humidor is a treasure trove for cigar aficionados.

La Casa del Habano St. Maarten is conveniently located in the heart of Philipsburg, on Cyrus Wathey Square #5. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a novice looking to explore the world of cigars, our doors are open to welcome you.

OUR IMPRESSIVE CIGAR SELECTION INCLUDES: Cohiba Montecristo Partagás Romeo Y Julieta Trinidad H. Upmann Hoyo de Monterrey And many more La Casa del Habano invites you to experience the epitome of luxury, craftsmanship, and excellence in the world of cigars.

Join us on a journey that tantalizes your senses and leaves you with memories to cherish. Visit us today and discover the art of cigar indulgence like never before.

Every detail of our humidor is designed to preserve and enhance the flavors of these premium cigars. The temperature and humidity are meticulously controlled to ensure the perfect conditions for aging. Our exquisite cedarlined shelves not only protect the cigars but also infuse them with subtle cedar notes, enhancing your smoking experience.

ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH PREMIUM PAIRINGS Indulge in the art of cigar and spirit pairing at La Casa del Habano St. Maarten. Our top-shelf liquors, including bourbons, whiskeys, and other premium spirits, provide the perfect companions to complement your chosen cigar. Let our knowledgeable staff guide you in creating a harmonious combination that will elevate your cigar experience to new heights.

St. Maarten Contact Information: Cyrus Wathey Square #5, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: +1 721 581 4645 Email: lcdhsxm@gmail.com Website: www.lcdhsxm.com Operating Hours Monday to Saturday: 12 PM to 10 PM

UNWIND IN ELEGANCE: DISCOVER OUR LUXURIOUS LOUNGE SPACES Indulge in a realm of luxury and relaxation, where every corner of our cigar lounge tells a unique story. With an array of exquisite lounge spaces, the question is: Where will you choose to let time stand still while savoring your 134

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PHILIPSBURG

© Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

tender jetty’s, namely the Capt. Hodge Jetty centrally located

Whether arriving by plane, cruise ship or mega-yacht, the

in Philipsburg, Bobby’s Marina Jetty, and Walter Williams

visitor will find an endless selection of gift items to carry

Tender Jetty in front of Sea Palace hotel.

back home as reminders of their vacation on the “Friendly Island.”

Competition between merchant’s guarantees that the customer gets what they bargained for with great prices on emeralds, set diamonds, rubies, sapphires, cultured pearls, gold, silver and much more.

GETTING TO PHILIPSBURG It is easy to get to the capital town of Sint Maarten.Whether you are driving your own rental car, taking a taxi cab, or using private public transportation, getting there is not a problem.

Philipsburg stores also offer a wide selection of fine

There is one main road with some secondary roads, the

jewelry and watches from such well-known designers as

latter giving you quicker access into Philipsburg.

C2K, Caribbean Hook, Honora, House of Tanzanite, John Atencio, John Hardy, Kabana, Roberto Coin, Starnight, White Diamonds, Alfex, Concord, Faconnable, Gucci, Maurice Lacroix, Michele, Movado, Wenger, La Nouvelle Bague and more.

in the region. Many of the stores have branches at the airport,

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There are a number of casinos throughout the town. For those who are into gambling, Philipsburg has much to offer.

Due to the town’s proximity to the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise

Sint Maarten has some of the most famous duty free shopping cruise terminal, Maho Shopping Center, and Cupecoy.

NIGHT LIFE

& Cargo Facilities, thousands of cruise ship passengers and crew visit the casinos on an annual basis to try their luck and many become winners.

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PHILIPSBURG Town, which Philipsburg is also referred to, offers lively beach bars, night time activities on the beach promenade where you can meet visitors and locals and hang out in a friendly environment.

DINING / RESTAURANTS Philipsburg would not be the capital of Sint Maarten if you couldn’t find great food.Town offers a variety of international cuisine and you won’t be disappointed.

SHOPPING HOURS Stores on Front Street open at 9:00 am until 6:00 pm from

law offices, banking institutions, government departments

Monday to Saturday. Occasionally some stores would open

and much more. All the aforementioned are in walking

on Sunday when there are several cruise ships in port.

distance from each other. Whether you’re an investor or a visitor, Philipsburg has something to offer everyone.

TRANSPORTATION

PARKING

TAXIS

The most convenient parking lot is located in front of the

Finding a taxi in Philipsburg is not a problem. Taxis are

Government Administration Building at the Clem Labega

available to take you wherever and whenever you need to go.

Square which is located across from the Windward Islands Bank. Additional parking lots have been built across from the

BUS SERVICE

Post Office, the Police Station and the temporary Ring Road

You also have the option to travel via bus. In this case you will

parking area.

need to go to Back Street and search out a bus that is going in your direction. If you are traveling from Caravanserai/ Maho Reef/Mullet Bay/Cupecoy, then you will have to check the directional sign which is usually at the front section of a

PHILIPSBURG REJUVENATED The Government embarked on a number of projects to rejuvenate the capital town of Philipsburg. Plans for beautifying

bus telling you in which direction the bus is heading in order for you to reach your destination.

Busses travel from Philipsburg to the main tourist areas namely, Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, Caravansarai, Maho and Cupecoy, where one finds the majority of hotels.You can also get out at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping Center, and cross the street walking in the direction of Pelican, where you will find a number of hotels, timeshare properties and vacation villa rentals.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES Philipsburg is the base for all major services such as notaries, © DiegoMariottini / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG

Front Street date as far back as 1999. The first part of the rejuvenation of Philipsburg entailed beach replenishment, where tons of sand were pumped from the seabed onto the Great Bay Beach.

the one in Philipsburg. Since the beach replenishment, more restaurants and beach bars have opened, and there are a lot more activities for visitors to enjoy on the beach and the promenade.

From the beach replenishment followed the construction of a seaside beach promenade, then by the beautification of Front Street, Back Street and sections of two secondary streets in the town. The entire process of development and rejuvenating the city capital is all related to improving the

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The beach promenade starts at Passangrahan Guesthouse near Bobby’s Marina and stretches as far as Sea Palace Hotel.

The promenade has become a hive of activity. It allows one

Very few islands can boast of a beach in town, like the size of

overall visitor experience.

BEACH PROMENADE

to leisurely stroll along the waterfront enjoying the ambiance of Philipsburg. One also has easy access to restaurants and main street – Front Street, where you can find all your duty free shopping experience.

BEAUTIFICATION OF FRONT STREET The first phase of the beautification of Front Street started from Passangrahan Hotel and went as far as Sea Palace Hotel. However, the beautification program continued down to the former Paper Garden Book Store. The Government recognizes that further upgrading and improvement of

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PHILIPSBURG

© Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

the tourism product is necessary if Sint Maarten wants to

residents. It also features specially constructed stone walls,

continue to remain one of the main tourism destinations in

an avenue of indigenous trees, a fishing deck, customized

the Caribbean.

street lighting and much more.

The beautified area of the Tourist Corridor stretches

The upgrading of Front Street fits into the Government’s

from the Buncamper Road, Point Blanche to the Keys in

development vision policy document, “A Development

Suckergarden.

Perspective for Philipsburg and the Greater Great Bay Area,” which outlines a particular framework on how the capital town should be developed.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO PHILIPSBURG – THE TOURIST CORRIDOR In keeping with the vision of continuing to upgrade the island’s

HARBOUR POINT VILLAGE – AN ADDITION TO SHOPPING IN THE CAPITAL In addition to Philipsburg is Harbour Point Village, which opened in May 2003 at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities in Point Blanche. This five acre development was designed in the traditional Caribbean flavour of architecture.

tourism infrastructure, another project that Government embarked upon was the busy thoroughfare which connects

Harbour Point Village is a mini-Philipsburg – a small shopping

Philipsburg to the French side of the island.

arcade consisting of 12 shops and 12+ market stalls. Harbour Point is meant for cruise visitors who stay onboard the

Part of the Tourist Corridor beautification project has been

vessel; the individual can take a stroll into the little village

executed. It features a running/walking track for visitors and

which is not far from the cruise pier; or those who go on an

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PHILIPSBURG island tour and return to the cruise port without having the

All government offices will be housed in this building. It will

experience of shopping in Philipsburg, can still do that last

be more investor and customer friendly as all government

minute shopping at the Harbour Point Village.

departments will be centrally located at one location.

There are already several traditional, high quality shopping

CENTER OF TOWN CAPT. HODGE WHARF

centers on the island. The Harbour Point Village is a reminiscence of the days gone by, but not forgotten.

The Capt. Hodge’s Wharf was renovated. The pier in Philipsburg at the Cyrus Wathey Square is an important

POND ISLAND

transportation link between cruise ships docking at the Dr.

Pond Island is a new development. It is surrounded by the

A. C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility and the island’s main

historical salt ponds and is linked to Philipsburg. It is also part

shopping center, Front Street.

of the Development Vision of the Government.

It accommodates water taxis and tender vessels to off load There are existing buildings such as the University of St.

and take on passengers simultaneously. It houses a Tourist

Martin, Telecommunications Earth Station, Turning Point

Information Office, and a Police Sub-Station.

Rehabilitation Center, the Sint Maarten Receiver’s Office, Little League Ball Park, Festival Village and the Government Office Complex.

© S.C. Colbing / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG

© Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

© Media Publishing International

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SIMPSON BAY THE NEW STRIP OF ENTERTAINMENT

© Skycolors / Shutterstock.com

U

ntil 1933, Simpson Bay Village was completely isolated. A lot has happened and developed since then.Today the Village is well and alive bustling with activity. The new strip of entertainment offers all the essential services that a visitor to the “Friendly Island,” would require in order to enjoy themselves.

Simpson Bay is also home to the mega-yacht sector of the island’s tourism oriented economy. The Simpson Bay Lagoon is one of the biggest natural assets, a natural area for marinas and other marine sector services. The Simpson Bay Lagoon caters to the Palapa Center and Marina, Simpson Bay Yacht Club, Isle de Sol Yacht Club, and the Princess Yacht Club at Port de Plaisance.

Simpson Bay Village has a lot more to offer the visitor. It has restaurants, art galleries, international fast food establishments, hotels, liquor & tobacco stores, real estate agents, casinos, doctor’s offices, brand-name stores, and much more. The beaches are just a stone’s throw away.

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SIMPSON BAY ESSENTIAL SERVICES The strip also offers the services of a number of financial institutions on the island. The island’s main banks which have their head offices in Philipsburg, have branches and ATM machines throughout the Dutch side of the island. Some of them have branches in Simpson Bay, namely Windward Islands Bank, RBC Bank., Republic Bank and First Caribbean International Bank. They provide a whole range of services for visitors.

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

DINING/RESTAURANTS The Simpson Bay strip caters to approximately 50 restaurants,

WATERSPORTS

snacks and eateries. The island is recognized as the gourmet

Diving/snorkeling, kayaking, banana boats, sport fishing, sunset

capital of the Caribbean boasting over 350 restaurants. The

trips, day trips, bike riding are just some of the things that

strip offers some of the finest dining on the island. Dining on

are available in the village. There is so much to do including

the strip is exquisite. You will find a variety of gastronomic

boat trips to the neighboring islands. You will always find

possibilities such as Italian, Continental, French, Creole,

something to do.

Brazilian and much more.

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SIMPSON BAY

© Emile Cukier

© Jessica Kirsh / Shutterstock.com

PUERTA DEL SOL PLAZA AT SIMPSON BAY

AIRPORT The Princess Juliana International Airport is right next to the

In Sint Maarten you always find something new on your next

Simpson Bay Village. The airport is ideally located just a few

visit. Puerta del Sol Plaza is an addition to the Simpson Bay

minutes away from the main hotels and timeshare properties

Yacht Club. The plaza has been described as having shady

located in the areas of Beacon Hill-Caravansarai, Maho Reef,

courtyards with a collection of chic boutiques, hair salons/

Cupecoy, Simpson Bay and Pelican.

day spa, yacht brokers, real estate agents and restaurants.

Once again it is in easy walking distance to everything else.

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

SIMPSON BAY

© Laila R / Shutterstock.com

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SIMPSON BAY

© Media Publishing International N.V.

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MAHO VILLAGE MAHO REEF SHOPPING AND DINING PLAZA

© Gemma Fletcher / Shutterstock.com

T

he Maho Reef Shopping & Dining Plaza is part of the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino which is nestled between Beacon Hill, Mullet Bay and the Princess Juliana International Airport.

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is an all-inclusive property and considered by many as a “destination within a destination.”

The property offers two swimming pools, swim-up pool bar, four tennis courts, a lively children’s program and an array of water activities.

The resort caters to couples, families and groups and is considered the largest all-inclusive hotel on the island.

The resort offers five restaurants and five bars, a casino and nightclub to keep you entertained.

Maho Reef Shopping & Dining Plaza is designed to provide you with the ideal shopping experience.Various outlets are spread across a space which is both airy and contemporary.You can leisurely stroll around and look for whatever it is that suits your tastes and needs.

The plaza offers a variety of fine cuisine restaurants from French to Italian food, American, Japanese, and Creole.

You can also find a medical pharmacy, doctor’s office, jeweler, perfumery, clothing/resort wear, souvenir shop, hair salon, adult entertainment club, ice cream parlour, supermarket and yogurt shops.

There is also adequate parking in order to enjoy the shopping and dining experience at Maho Village. Parking can be found next to the property, the underground parking at the La Terrasse Suite Hotel, and at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort parking garage.

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CUPECOY ‘THE RIVIERA’ SHOPPING ATTRACTION & ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

A

s Sint Maarten continues to develop, investors are looking for new opportunities and they have over the past few years discovered the Cupecoy area.

The “Riviera,” in Sint Maarten, Porto Cupecoy, is one of the newest developments on the island along with “Blue Mall.”

PORTO CUPECOY ‘A MEDITERRANEAN VILLAGE’

Described as living in a seaside village, near the Dutch/ French border, Porto Cupecoy features private condominiums, international boutiques, renowned restaurants, full service fitness center, pool, tennis court, supermarket and a deep water marina with 54 slips.

Porto Cupecoy’s website describes the property as a Mediterranean village-inspired layout, with a blend of classic sophistication and Caribbean comfort with modern convenience.

This vibrant community is set around a bay-front promenade ringed by luxury boutiques and top-rated restaurants.

Porto Cupecoy is more than a prized vacation spot; it’s a twenty-first century port of call.

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM SM BUREAU

T

he smallest island in the world shared by two sovereign powers, St. Maarten/St. Martin enjoys the perfect blend of two European cultures with the beauty of a Caribbean paradise.The island of St. Maarten also boasts an intriguing historical background. Christopher Columbus discovered it in 1493, on the feast day of St. Martin of Tours, and in the 140 years

that followed, it changed flags many times. The Spanish, French, Dutch, and English have all claimed possession. In 1648, a treaty divided the island in two; the Dutch received 16 square miles and the French, due to a superior naval presence at the time, received 21. Today, the cosmopolitan inhabitants of this friendly island are proud of their over 350-year coexistence and, as if to prove a point, have never constructed an official border between the island’s two countries. There are historic forts to see and architectural gems to photograph. Indians, pirates, smugglers, slaves, soldiers, merchants, and mariners have all left their mark here. And rumors of buried treasures still persist. Be that as it may, the island is certainly a treasure trove of history.

WITH 37 BEACHES, WHEN IT COMES TO FUN, THE WETTER THE BETTER. When it comes to water activities in this picturesque paradise, the recipe for fun is this: simply add water. In fact, the wetter and wilder the water sport, the better. The island offers not only the turquoise Caribbean sea but tranquil lagoons as well.

Enthusiasts can snorkel, windsurf, waterski, sail, jet-ski, and parasail. Fishing charters for marlin, king fish, tuna, and wahoo,

EXPLORE A HISTORY OF DIVERSE CULTURES LIKE NO OTHER IN THE WORLD. © St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

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ST. MAARTEN TOUR TOURISM BUR REAU

plus day sails to our neighboring islands, are also readily available. The beautiful island of St. Maarten is encircled by 37 magnificent beaches. While some invite you to endless

stretches of powder white sands shaded by swaying palms, others lure you to enchanting coves or a scuba diver’s dream sheltered by colorful coral reefs. Nice to know is the fact that our beaches are never crowded, even in season. So those who prefer the sensual privacy of a secluded beach in paradise can become lost in fantasy and intrigue. For those who wish not to get their feet wet, there’s horseback riding, tennis, and golf. Most hotels have tennis courts or access to them, and arrangements can be made for you to play golf on Mullet Bay’s 18-hole championship course. Whatever your whims, the island of St. Maarten offers more activities than imaginable to have total fun in the Caribbean sun.

NONSTOP ACTION THAT’S WORLD-CLASS If exciting night life and gaming tickles your fancy, the Dutch

© St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

side of the island can deal you a winning hand every time.

Seasoned high rollers and spirited amateur shooters can try their luck at roulette, craps, baccarat, blackjack, and slots at any of our glamorous casinos.

In addition to popular local hot spots, the island’s many and varied hotels also offer entertainment of their own; you will not have to look far to enjoy an evening of limbo fire dancers, folkloric, and the calypso beat of a Caribbean revue.

On lively St. Maarten, disco lives! Wherever the excitement draws you, it is a sure bet that you’ll find enough Las Vegasstyle entertainment and casino action to keep you rolling all night long. In the wee hours of a starry night, there’s always romance, a stroll in the surf, a balmy breeze and the scent of wild orchids.

of golf versus tennis and scuba versus snorkel, they all agree on one thing: the dining on St. Maarten is exquisite.

The cuisine can be described in many ways. French, Italian Continental, Creole from beluga to zucchini mousse. St. Maarten sets a table that’s unique in the Caribbean. Where else in the world will you find a 37-square-mile island boasting over 350 tantalizing restaurants. Here you can enjoy a Cuban or Mexican appetizer, a Brazilian or Indonesian entrée, and a Vietnamese dessert. Frankly, the gastronomic possibilities are endless.

IN THE GOURMET CAPITAL OF THE CARIBBEAN, YOU’LL FIND FINE EUROPEAN DINING.

But of course, there’s more to dining than simply the food.

Food, delicious food! While our guests may argue the merits

St. Maarten is like dining no place else. ~ Bon appétit!

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There’s the ambiance, the view, and the atmosphere of many different cultures. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner in a sophisticated restaurant in Philipsburg or a bistro meal in a sidewalk café on one of Marigot’s colorful avenues, dining in

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU SOFT ADVENTURES

CHARTER FISHING

Your trip to St. Maarten offers many opportunities such as:

Charters, available for half or full-day hire, usually include

Hiking along lush, scenic trails, Kayaking along our gorgeous

tackle, bait, food, and refreshments. Your hotel will tell you

beaches. Also one can enjoy our numerous cycling routes

where the best fishing is.

along both roads and mountainous trails.

SAILING

HORSEBACK RIDING

Internationally renowned for hosting the famed Heineken

The island has several stables at which persons rent horses.

Regatta and the 12-metre Challenge, St. Maarten fascinates

Arrangements for guided horseback tours can also be made

boaters of all sorts with crystal blue waters, brisk trade

at the stables.

winds, secluded beaches, and first-rate mariners’ services. St. Maarten also offers various yacht chartering services, from

BEACHES

day trips to neighboring islands to sunset cruises boasting

Vacation on St. Maarten and the sand will always be between your toes. We have so many wonderful beaches. On the

the best view of the island.

Dutch side, Cupecoy beach is picture-perfect. Mullet Bay

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

and Maho Bay offer shimmering sands and family facilities.

One of the joys of vacationing in St. Maarten is that it is

Simpson Bay and Great Bay offer suntans and water sports.

duty-free!

Anywhere you travel, a beach is not far away.

You can get many bargains because prices are among the

WATER SPORTS

lowest in the region. Certainly much less than prices you pay

The island offers excellent diving and snorkeling locations.

in the U.S. and Canada.The best places to shop on the Dutch

And with so many multicolored tropical fish, you’d think

side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson

Picasso had been painting them. Underwater visibility runs

Bay, and Maho village. Wherever you go, you’ll find clothing,

from 75–200 feet depending on conditions. Windsurfing,

leather goods, jewelry, gold, watches, perfumes, cosmetics,

sailing, and jet skiing have enjoyed rapid growth over recent

china, and crystals from around the world.

years and instructors are usually available.

© St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

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INVESTMENT TOURISMGUIDE

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU All famous brand names are well represented. St. Maarten

Citizens of other countries should check with a travel agent

plays hosts to a number of fascinating art galleries and studios

or a St. Maarten Tourist Office on the appropriate documents

featuring the finest local, International and Caribbean works.

necessary to enter St. Maarten.

CASINOS

AIRLINES

No vacation on this island is complete without a visit to one

The island is serviced by a number of major carriers and

or more of our spectacular casinos. All are located on the

charter flights.

Dutch side and are open from noon until 3 am.

CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION U.S. citizens entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a valid passport or proof of U.S. citizenship, return travel tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient funds.

AIRPORT Princess Juliana International Airport is located on the Dutch side near Simpson Bay. Flight Information: 1(721) 546-7777 Information Desk: 1(721) 524-4569 For more information call your travel professional or the St.

Canadian citizens entering St. Maarten for 14 days or less must bring: a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization

Maarten Tourist Offices.

certificate. Return travel tickets, documents for next

AUTOMOBILE RENTALS

destination, and sufficient funds are also required.

One of the best and most convenient ways to see the island is to rent a car. For about $35 to $55 per day, most rentalcar

United Kingdom citizens or British-protected persons

agencies offer unlimited mileage. Pickup and delivery service

entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a

is usually available. All you need to rent a car is a valid driver’s

valid passport, return tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient funds.

Vacation on St. Maarten and the sand will always be between your toes.

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU license and a major credit card or cash deposit (about $350

10 to 15 percent. Taxi Stations are located on the Dutch

to $600). Also available are scooters, bikes, and Harley-

Side at the Airport, at the Cyrus Wathey Square, at the Dr.

Davidson rentals.

A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility, at Diamond Casino on Front Street, and also on the waterfront on the French Side.

DRIVING LICENSE Both international and foreign licenses are accepted. Traffic

BANKING HOURS

on St. Maarten is right hand driving.

8:30 am–3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. (Hours vary from bank to bank.) ATM machines are available throughout the island.

BUSES Public transportation tra runs regularly between the island’s

CURRENCY

two capitals for a moderate fee. Other buses travel hourly

Dutch side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Antillian Guilders (Naf./Fls./

between Mullet Bay, Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Grand Case.

Ang.). One U.S. dollar equals approximately Naf.1.82 French side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Euros (€).

TAXIS Taxis on St. Maarten are not metered. Rates determined by

CLIMATE

the government are based on carrying two passengers per

Annual averages: Temperature - 80°; rainfall - 40”; water

trip to their destination. Your driver will appreciate a tip of

temperature - 78°

© St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

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TOURISM

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU DRINKING WATER Purified tap water. Local and imported bottled water also widely available.

WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS Nothing makes for a more memorable wedding day than having your ceremony presided over by the serene

ELECTRICITY

surroundings and azure waters of beautiful St. Maarten.

Dutch side: 110 volts (50 cycles).

French side: 208/200 volts (60 cycles).

Marriage licenses are easy to obtain and you can even be provided with a wedding coordinator to help facilitate your

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

special day. For those who can’t wait to start their honeymoon,

St. Maarten: Dutch

St. Maarten offers a wonderful variety of charming hotels and

St. Martin: French

resorts so you can instantly be whisked off to your once-in-a-

English is widely spoken on both sides of the island.

life-time rendezvous. For complete wedding and honeymoon information, contact the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

SIZE AND LOCATION The Dutch side is 16 square miles. The French side is 21 square miles. St. Maarten is located 195 miles from San Juan, 1,690 miles from New York, 1,989 miles from Montreal, 2,008 miles from Toronto, 3,065 miles from São Paulo, 1,225 miles from Miami, 3,612 miles from Buenos Aires, and 4,314 miles from Amsterdam.

SHOPPING HOURS

For more information, call your travel professional or the St. Maarten Tourist Office: Krippa Commercial Building 6 Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1-721-5490200 - Fax: 1-721-5422734

Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Some shops and supermarkets are open on Sundays.

One of the joys of vacationing in St. Maarten is that it is duty-free! © St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN........................................................................................ 163 MAP OF MARIGOT & GRAND CASE................................................................. 170 SABA.............................................................................................................................. 173 ST. EUSTATIUS............................................................................................................. 180 ANGUILLA................................................................................................................... 184

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I

FRENCH NCH SAINT-MARTIN am always delighted to hear when anyone falls in

You’ll find completely renovated hotels, the most recent in

love with our Friendly Island, be they passing visitors

the whole of the Caribbean, cozy accommodations with that

who came here for a relaxing break or entrepreneurs

authentic tropical charm, and a wide range of restaurants

who wanted to develop their business. You are more than

where you’ll see why we are well known as the gourmet

welcome on this island. It is full of promises, with magical

capital. Saint-Mart t-Martin cultural and artistic richness is the fruit

landscapes and countless opportunities. You’re in for some

of the diversity and joie de d vivre of its inhabitants, making

unique experiences that we are proud to be promoting,

it a great destination supported by a generous calendar of

because, here, on Saint-Martin, we guarantee that your

events. Musical, gastronomic or sports festivals, you can

dreams are within reach.

celebrate with us, all year long! Countless experiences await you if you are coming to our little slice of heaven, spread over 34 mi2, for the first time. Thirty-seven sandy beaches, with warm and crystal-clear waters, a bountiful natural environment, and a wide range of activities make for an exceptional experience, whether you come here for a relaxing break, or to build a new life.

On the French side of the island in the north, you’ll be amazed by the contrasts all around you: luxury and peaceand-quiet in the protected enclave of Terres Basses, the

Baie Rouge © Theo Demanez - Office de Tourisme de Saint Martin

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN SAIN authentic capital, Marigot, the colors and local flavors in

and to promote our superb destination all over the world.

Grand Case, and the easygoing pace of life in Orient Bay

Our top priority is to nurture our international reputation

with a huge beach and friendly atmosphere in the evenings.

by showcasing the wonderful way of life on our “Friendly

Nettlé Bay, Anse Marcel, and Oyster Pond are just some

Island,” because I am convinced that a treasure can only

of the enchanting places that you will hopefully soon see

really be appreciated if it is shared. And I’ll let you in on a

with your own eyes. Each place has its own history and

secret: in Saint-Martin, we approach life with a smile, and we

identity, each place will show you how unique our island is,

are sure to get smiles in return.

our island that we are so fiercely proud of.

Valérie Damaseau President of the Saint-Martin Tourist Office

The Saint-Martin Tourist Office will be by your side to assist you on your adventure, to support local businesses,

© Office de Tourisme de Saint Martin

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN SAINT-M

S

aint-Martin is a friendly and authentic small island,

Grand Case, the culinary capital offers typical and local

surrounded by 37 white sandy beaches, turquoise

cuisine but also French gourmet restaurants with varied

water, cradled by the beautiful Caribbean sun.

atmospheres: festive, romantic, local etc. Marigot, which is the Capital of the French side, is ideal for shopping, relaxation

The Friendly Island is known for its picturesque landscapes

and refreshment. Pic Paradis, the highest peak of the island is

and its captivating nights but also for its charming inhabitants.

famous for its natural activities and its wonderful rain forest.

This fame is also due to the coexistence of France and the Netherlands on 88 km2, in perfect harmony.

Music has a precious place in Saint-Martin, soca, zouk, reggae, salsa but also soul and jazz that are the sounds that keep the

The French side is in the North and is an overseas

island alive night and day. Despite the success of tourism,

collectivity of France. The Dutch side is pegged to the group

the island has preserved its authentic Creole charms:

of Netherlands. In recent years both sides’ statuses have

natural islets, colored wooden houses, mountains walks, all

evolved allowing them more freedom to collaborate with

in a beautiful protected area. Carnival, Christmas or Easter

their counterparts and giving them more control over local

are part of traditions. Melodies and dances with traditional

issues.The most common languages spoken on the island are

costumes, parades, glitters and feathers, all together on the

French, English, Creole, Spanish and Dutch.

sweet rhythm of the Caribbean music. The island invites visitors to experience what we call the “Friendly Island”, for an unforgettable stay.

The Friendly Island is known for its picturesque landscapes and its captivating nights...

Wall art in Marigot © Office de Tourisme de Saint-Martin

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN TOPOGRAPHY

FLORA

One can enjoy the many bays and creeks along the shores of

The island is covered with a variety of tropical flowers which

Saint-Martin where several water sports can be enjoyed. Pic

make the landscape a delight to look at. The thicker forest

Paradis, the highest summit culminates at 424 metres (1392

occupies the more mountainous areas.

feet) in the centre of the island.

FAUNA

Simpson Bay lagoon, one of the largest within the Caribbean,

Many pelicans, herons, aigrettes, waders and gulls live around

is an ideal place for water sports boat trips and special

the salt ponds and one can easily see mongooses crossing the

cruises.

streets, lizards, iguanas and turtles along the trails. Humming birds and sugar birds are common in the gardens.

CLIMATE Average temperatures vary between 66 and 82° F in January

BEACHES

and between 72 and 89° F in July. The most important rains

37 beaches of white sand, each one with its own charm and

occur between August and November of each year and the

beauty, wild islets and coral reefs.

drought is serious during February, March and April.

Fort Louis in Marigot © Theo Demanez - Office de tourisme de Saint Martin

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN ART If many international artists have migrated to Saint-Martin in search of new sensations, the native painters of the Caribbean and of the island undoubtedly hold the island heritage through a combination of the genuine values of the Caribbean islands in their works.

restore the very essence of the Caribbean world through an original luxuriant nature. Saint-Martin will live, breathe and rise thanks to their talent.

LODGING Diversity is the word by which one could describe lodging on Saint-Martin. The island offers a great variety of places

Roland Richardson has a gift for grasping nature as a whole

that accommodate visitors from the world around

and deeply seizing environment. This Saint-Martin artist

throughout the year. The choice of hotels is wide, unique in

understands that the subject appeals to you and not the other

the Caribbean and covers numerous sites, styles, sizes and

way around; that is why he tries to go far beyond personal

moods according to the taste of the clients. On the beach

expectations and respect nature’s gifts and offerings.

side or up on the hillside to discover the magnificent views, close to the shopping centres or facing the splendour of the

In Saint-Martin, art is linked to collective life and the artist

Caribbean, sports and leisure lovers will find a wide variety

expresses the surrounding energies, namely the beauty of

of activities they can practice, whereas lovers of Caribbean

the scenery, the glistening of colors and the variety of lights.

mildness will appreciate the charm and the calm of the more intimate places.

Although the island has experienced a galloping development toward urbanization, the work of the artists continues to

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FRENCH NCH SAINT-MARTIN

© Media Publishing International

Whatever the size or style of the hotel, the owners are professional, strict and concerned about preserving a great quality of equipment and services, they have an innate sense of reception and this Caribbean kindness distinctive of the friendly island.

Our binding character is one of happiness, each one is convinced that our hosts are first of all friends and everyone would like you to fall in love with Saint-Martin and welcome you to Paradise!

Office de Tourisme de Saint-Martin (Head Office) 10, rue du Général de Gaulle, 97150 Saint Martin Tel: +590 590 87 57 21 Email: contact@st-martin.org Website: www.st-martin.org © Media Publishing International

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

La Cigale © Office de Tourisme de Saint-Martin

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SABA

D

ear Visitor, I wish you a very warm welcome to our beautiful island Saba, the Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean... Our enchanted isle has always fascinated travelers, intrigued scholars, and scientist from around the world.

Saba sits majestically on the horizon like a rare green jewel floating on the shimmering blue tropical Caribbean Sea. Lush tropical foliage, brilliant flowers and fairy tale architecture fill the mountainsides and valleys. The entire island is exceptionally unspoiled and beautifully maintained, reflective of the locals’ deep sense of pride in their home, villages, and history. Its relative remoteness in the open sea also creates a unique ecosystem and a monument to nature’s best.

From an arid cactus-laden landscape which is quickly overtaken by rocky cliffs and tropical vegetation, breathtaking views ws are everywhere. Hikers can enjoy over 15 trails and Saba’s unique cloud forest Mount Scenery the highest point in the entire Dutch Kingdom sits at 877 meters or 2,877 feet.

The island has accommodations to suit every style and budget - from intimate boutique hotels to luxury villas and charming cottages. Foodies can savor gastronomic options ranging from casual to stylish, while enjoying our fresh seafood and the famous Saba lobster.

Saba’s wealth stretches beyond its island boundaries. Its surrounding waters contain a unique marine ecosystem renowned for the biodiversity of its marine life and are recognized to be among the world’s finest marine parks and diving sites. So whether you’re here to dive, hike, or to relax, rejuvenate and invigorate, we are pleased to have you visit us and hope you can share your experience with family and friends.

Your island adventure and Caribbean dream awaits!

Malinda Hassell Director of Tourism

WELCOME TO SABA

© Kai Wulf

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SABA

S

Saba sits majestically on the horizon like a rare green

with its fascinating history and culture. Twice named “Best

jewel floating on the shimmering blue tropical sea. It

Caribbean Island” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Saba is that

is a magical place that lures the adventurous traveler

rare place in the modern world that satisfies the intrepid

with her stunning verdant silhouette soaring 5000 feet from

soul as well as those seeking gentle pleasures. The island’s

the ocean floor; 3000 feet sits above sea level. Although a

Old-World Caribbean charm, lyrical pace and stunning

mere five square miles, this extinct volcanic island is filled

beauty provide respite for those who desire to disconnect

with extraordinary natural wonders perfectly in harmony

from life’s hectic pace.

SABA: THE CARIBBEAN’S RARE + UNSPOILED JEWEL

© Kai Wulf

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SABA GETTING THERE

ISLAND HISTORY

To explore Saba, you must get here.

As you ascend and descend the “Road”, you are surrounded

by Saba’s magnificent natural and man-made wonders. Lush

The most extraordinary approach is by air.Winair pilots take

tropical foliage, brilliant flowers and fairy tale architecture

off from St. Maarten for the twelve-minute flight. It is simply

fill the mountainsides and valleys. The entire island is

poetic floating above the Caribbean Sea heading to Saba’s

exceptionally unspoiled and beautifully maintained, reflective

soaring peak on the horizon. Just as you can almost touch

of the locals’ deep sense of pride in their home and history.

the mountain, the plane cuts a dramatic 180 degree on to Juancho E.Yrausquin Airport’s 400-meter runway, considered

Many of the intrepid Sabans are descent from lineages dating

the world’s shortest commercial air strip.You can also travel

to the 1600s when English sailors shipwrecked on the jagged

to Saba by ferry from Sint Maarten. Once past customs, just

shore. Over the centuries, Saba tossed between Dutch and

hop in a local taxi and begin to explore one of the earth’s

English ownership, with the Dutch winning out. Once a haven

most graceful places.

for marauding pirates, the island’s eclectic blend of Dutch, African, English, Scottish and Irish eventually settled into a

Please check with the airline and Ferry for current schedules,

quite harmony focused on seamanship and fishing. It was a

for entry more information on entry requirements visit

rugged life as the only roads were stone trails leading up

www.sabatourism.com

from the sea into the remote villages accessed only by foot

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SABA and donkey. Until 1943, there was no proper road. Saban

highly experienced dive companies bring you up close to

Josephus “Lambee” Hassel dismissed the Dutch and Swiss

spectacular watery beauty.

engineers who said a road could never be built. Via an engineering correspondence course and the help of fellow

Above the sea, the focus is natural and man-made beauty. To

islanders, the “Road”, as it is affectionately known, was built

fully enjoy the island, you should stay for a few days at one

in stages from 1943 to 1958.

of the charming boutique hotels, quaint Saban cottages or

Although their families have dwelled here for centuries, the

elegant villas often just a short stroll to civilized amenities

English-speaking locals are warm and welcoming to all who

such as the island restaurants ranging from casual to stylish.

wish to embrace nature, architectural beauty, cleanliness

With its abundant sea life, year-round growing season and

and a laid-back flow of life. It is not a closed community, far

proximity to St. Maarten/St. Martin, dining on Saba is very

from it. Whether you are an expat or visitor, conversations

fresh and delicious, especially the famous Saba lobster, red

begin the moment you hop in a taxi, enter a shop or stop for

snapper or locally grown produce.

refreshment. Everyone here is your tour guide. It’s a safe and protected place where you can blend in and enjoy the island’s

To explore the island up close, hike the old stone “roads”

gentle pace for a day or lifetime.

that evolved into stunning trails meandering up and down

EXPLORING SABA ABOVE AND BELOW THE SEA Saba doesn’t have beaches; just one that appears a few months a year. It is part of the reason Saba is so pristine and unspoiled. This place doesn’t need beaches. The unsurpassed beauty both below and above the sea opens the door to endless adventures from exhilarating to romantic.

Below the sea, Saba’s explosive volcanic origins are as obvious; it is one reason the island is among the world’s

the volcanic peaks and valleys. From easy sy to challenging, ch the trails provide the best means to fully connect with Saba’s natural beauty and experience the breathtaking views. Or simply sit on a terrace, cold beverage in hand, and let your eyes wander to the stunning views that emanate from every angle.The ever evolving scene flows endlessly to the horizon from sunrise to sunset.

Perhaps hop in a taxi and let the driver take you on a tour of the island, through the tropical forests, charming villages and picturesque architecture.The frequent subjects of artists

top dive spots. Within Saba’s protected marine park,

and photographers, Saba’s enchanting vernacular combines

spectacular formations and structures, alongside lava flows

beautiful red zinc roofs, white clapboard or stone walls,

and hot springs, combined with pristine coral reefs and a brilliant aquatic population creates a diver’s paradise. Saba’s

pretty green shutters and Caribbean gingerbread trim with little porches and colorful gardens edged in native stone.

© Chad Nuttall

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SABA A Some of the best examples of Saba vernacular are found

a convent school in Caracas, Venezuela. Several island shops

in and around the charming village of Windward Side with

sell beautiful lace items for the home and personal use.

its historic cottages and buildings. The island’s cottages

Another local product found in shops, bars and restaurants is

were most often homes of sea captains; built to survive

Saba Spice, a rum based beverage loaded with tropical spice,

the elements yet compliment the island’s natural beauty.

perfect as an after dinner liqueur or poured over ice cream.

An excellent example is the H.L. Johnson Museum, housed in a cottage built in 1840. Within this lovely and beautifully

Saba is also a willing subject for painters, photographers

restored museum are the carefully curated elements of a

and designers, inspired by the colors, forms and people of

traditional Saban family.

Saba. Art galleries, primarily in Windward Side, feature the work of local creators whose artistic products range from

Shopping is one of Saba’s most charming adventures. Stores

a magnificent water color painting of tropical flowers to

and galleries are scattered around the island, most often in

beautifully one of a kind jewelry at the Jewel Cottage, housed

the village of Windward Side. Although you can certainly find

in a 150 year old cottage, or the hand-blown glass jewelry of

a wonderful souvenir t-shirt, it is the artists and creators of

JoBean.

Saba that offer the most unique items.

Perhaps the best souvenir of Saba is the deep connection Saba lace is world renowned for its unique artistry. Since the

visitors often develop with the island, its people and the lyrical

1870s, Saban sea captain wives and their descendants have

flow of daily life. This is a very special place that beckons you

sold their intricate handmade (Spanish) lace, a skilled first

to return and settle into an unsurpassed tropical paradise.

acquired by Mary Gertrude Hassell Johnson who attended

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SABA

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2023

AUGUST Aug 22-28 Saba’s Monthly Tastes

JULY

Aug 25-26 Aviation Weekend

SEPTEMBER

July 21 Road To Carnival Event

Aug 26 Sunrise Runway Walk-a-thon

Whole Month Tourism Month Activities

July 24-30 Saba Summer Festival

Aug 26 Sip & Mingle Wine Tasting

Sept 26-Oct 2 Saba’s Monthly Tastes

July 25-31 Saba’s Monthly Tastes

Aug 24-Sep 7 Create & Learn

End Of The Month-Hiking Event

End of the Month-Hiking Event

End of the Month-Hiking Event

DECEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Dec 1-3 Saba Day Weekend

Whole Month Sea & Learn Activities

Whole Month Saba Arts & Culinary Month

Oct 24-30 Saba’s Monthly Tastes

Oct 30-Nov 6 Rum & Lobster Fest

Oct 28 Movie Under The Stars

Nov 4 Opening Arts Fair

End of the Month-Hiking Event

Nov 25 Saba Grill Fest Nov 27-Dec 4 Saba’s Monthly Tastes End of the Month-Hiking Event

Dec 2 Wahoo Touranament / Sea To Scenery Dec 8-10 Wahoo Food Fest Dec 16 Saba Village & Book Fair Dec 30 - Movie Under The Stars For more information about Saba, The Unspoiled Queen, please contact the tourism office below.

Saba Tourism Bureau P.O. Box 527, E.A. Johnson Road Windwardside, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Tel.: 599-416-2231 / 2322 Email: tourism@sabagov.nl Website: www.sabatourism.com All photos © Saba Tourism Bureau

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SABA

© Kai Wulf

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ST. EUSTATIUS EUSTATIU FIVE REASONS TO “DATE” STATIA

By Jesse Serwer

S

t. Eustatius is truly the Caribbean’s hidden treasure. Statia, as it’s commonly known, is officially a part of the Netherlands but this eight-square-mile island due south of St. Maarten has a personality all of its own. A rich history, diverse population, stunning natural beauty and the absence of mass tourism all combine to give it its uniquely low-key vibe.

Here’s five reasons why you should make St. Eustatius your next Caribbean destination.

1. DIVING St. Eustatius is home to some of the Caribbean’s best diving. Unlike many of the region’s other underwater hotspots, however, you’ll never have to worry about crowds. Divers can explore over a dozen shipwrecks in Oranje Bay, many bearing treasures of antique glass, porcelain and other relics of the island’s legacy as a major trading center. The aptly-named Blue Bead Hole is home to a motherlode of striking blue beads, a symbol of the island’s past. Coral reefs ring the island, protected within a marine habitat administered by St. Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA). Elsewhere, lava flows formed through recent volcanic activity create otherworldly underwater tapestries. Members of the three endangered sea turtle species—the leatherback, the green turtle, and the hawksbill— which nest on the island are also commonly sighted near Statia’s reefs and wrecks.

2. ADVENTURE Statia is home to over a dozen hiking trails. The most essential of these will take you to The Quill, the dormant, 2,000-foot volcano which dominates the island. A hike to the summit can be completed in under an hour, but you will want to leave time to explore the Quill’s inner crater, which is home to a spectacular tropical rainforest.

3. TRANQUILITY Statia is a place to unplug, relax and unwind. From the moment you land at F. D. Roosevelt Airport, you’ll be struck by an overwhelming sense of tranquility. In fact, the sound of small, single-engine planes taking off and landing is just about the only noise of note you’ll encounter on your stay. What you will hear are crashing waves, braying goats and chirps from the more than 30 bird species that make their home on St. Eustatius.

St. Eustatius is truly the Caribbean’s hidden treasure. © © Cees CeesTimmers Timmers

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ST. EUSTATIUS TASTE St. Eustatius is a melting pot. Historically, it has been home mostly to residents of Dutch and African descent, but

4. EXPERIENCE - TH THE PEOPLE...

Statians as they are refered to are very cultured, very

recent years have brought an influx of arrivals from around

hospitable and very proud people. The past is everywhere

the world, with their own cuisines and traditions. On the

on St. Eustatius. Statia has more historical monuments per

last Thursday of every month, the stalls outside Mike Van

square mile than any other Caribbean island: 119 in total.

Putten Youth Centre play host to Taste of the Islands, an

Oranjestad, the capital, might seem sleepy today, but it was

international smorgasbord which highlights the diversity of

once the Caribbean’s busiest trading port. To walk along the

Statia’s populace. With all meals going for only US$5, the

wave-battered ruins of the 18th-century brick warehouses in

price — and the experience — can’t be beat. It’s a great

Oranjestad’s Lower Town is to travel back in time to the days

place to talk up residents and get in step with local issues

when the island hummed with commerce, and lived up to its

and concerns. For a more indulging experience, upon your

nickname of “The Golden Rock.” Up the hill in Oranjestad’s

next visit join the Statia Tourism office at the Taste Of The

downtown (“Upper Town”) you’ll find the remnants of

Cultures (TOTC).

Honen Dalim, the second-oldest Jewish synagogue in the New World. Steps away are the newly-restored Fort Oranje,

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ST. EUSTATIUS with its stunning overlook of the Caribbean. It was here that, in November 1776, Governor Johannes de Graaff offered the first international recognition of the newly-chartered United States, in the form of an 11-gun salute to the USS Andrew Doria. The colonies were able to purchase ammunition and supplies on Statia during the American Revolution, owing to the port’s neutral status, seeding a relationship which lasts to this day.Among the ramparts and canons at Fort Oranje hangs a brass plaque which U.S. president Franklin D. Roosevelt presented to St. Eustatius in 1939 in commemoration of its pivotal role in aiding independence.

“SET YOUR

DATE

AND COME VISIT US”

© Cees Timmers

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ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

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ANGUILLA ABOUT ANGUILLA

T

ucked away in the northern Caribbean, Anguilla is a shy beauty with a warm smile. A slender length of coral and limestone fringed with green, the island is ringed with 33 beaches, considered by savvy travelers and top travel magazines, to be the most beautiful in the world. Anguilla is truly the place to “Lose the Crowd and find Yourself”.

With accommodations ranging from ultra-luxury villas to traditional resorts, Charming Escapes hotels and guest houses, Anguilla offers a premium vacation experience at every price point and when it comes to culinary experiences, Anguilla is second to none. There are over 100 restaurants on the island, everything from exquisite fine dining to beach bars to street food and roadside barbecues.

Anguilla lies just off the beaten path, so it has retained a charming character and appeal. Yet because it can be conveniently reached from two major gateways: Puerto Rico and St. Maarten, and by private air, it’s a hop and a skip away. Anguilla is also accessible via a direct flight from Miami with American Airlines.

Lose the Crowd and find Yourself.

Sandy Ground © ATB

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ANGUILLA EXPLORING ANGUILLA

■ ISLAND HARBOUR

■ THE VALLEY

Colorful boats moor in this protected cove, and the fishing

Anguilla’s capital, The Valley, is located in the center of the island. It is the home of government and commerce, the Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport, and the Anguilla Tourist Board. Here you will also find the island’s only surviving plantation house, the beautifully restored Wallblake House, built in 1787, a glimpse into Anguilla’s colonial heritage.

This quaint fishing village sits on the eastern end of Anguilla. pier juts out towards the conch-lined island of Scilly Cay. Island Harbour is home to the annual Festival del Mar on the Easter weekend, a celebration of all things from the sea that includes a seafood festival, culinary competitions, swimming and fishing tournaments, lots of music and the national pastime, Boatracing.

■ BLOWING POINT The Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is the point of entry for most visitors to Anguilla, who arrive via the public or private ferries from St. Martin/Sint Maarten.The area is also home to some of the island’s finest villa estates.

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ANGUILLA ■ WEST END The West End is the heart of Anguilla’s tourism industry, home of many of the island’s traditional five-star resorts.

It is also where Anguilla’s culinary fame was born, led by iconic restaurants such as Blanchard’s, and followed by establishments like Jacala, Straw Hat and more recently Sharky’s Restaurant.

The spectacular beaches of the West End -- Meads Bay, Rendezvous Bay, Maundays Bay, Barnes Bay, Long Bay, Cove Bay – glistening arcs of powder soft sand framing azure seas, these are the hallmarks of the Anguillian vacation experience.

■ SANDY GROUND A sleepy village by day, party central at night, Sandy Ground is “the entertainment capital of Anguilla”. The colorful beach bars, fun and casual restaurants come alive with music, dancing and lively conversation.

Road Bay at Sandy Ground is the entry port for private yachts and small luxury cruise ships that call on Anguilla.

Meads Bay © ATB

Customs and Immigration clearance takes place here, and many of the yacht services and local provisioning agents are based at this location.

■ OUR OFF-SHORE CAYS “Anguilla by Sea” tours take you to one or more of these islands for a day of swimming, snorkeling and fantastic food.

Scrub Island is the largest of the offshore cays, your perfect private island. Activities here include wildlife observation over 34 species of birds that have been recorded – snorkeling with turtles, fish and stingray, and swimming in emerald glowing lagoons.

Sandy Island is a five-minute boat ride from Sandy Ground.

An amazing restaurant and spectacular snorkeling make it a truly memorable experience.

Prickly Pear also offers a great selection of cocktails and seafood, bird watching, snorkeling, and stunning vistas of turquoise seas.

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ANGUILLA WHAT TO DO IN ANGUILLA Anguilla’s pristine beaches and azure seas make it ideal for myriad water sports, ranging from snorkeling, kite-surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding, to scuba diving, deep sea fishing, body surfing and boat racing, the island’s national sport.

On land, there’s a championship golf course; a state of the art tennis academy, with experienced coaches offering lessons at all levels, and home to the annual Anguilla Cup in November; also caving, biking, and ATV rides that take you to every corner of the island.

Anguilla has an exciting calendar of events and festivities.

The Moonsplash music festival, hosted by Anguilla’s legendary Bankie Banx and celebrated at the full moon in March, is renowned for its very special vibes, found nowhere else on earth.

Folk festivals such as Welches on Whit Monday, West Fest, and A Village Ting, celebrate Anguilla’s heritage and culture, showcasing our culinary, musical and sporting traditions.

Summer Festival in August is a ten-day spree of carnival activities by night, and traditional Boatracing by day, pageantry, music and street dancing that started over forty years ago.

For tourism information on Anguilla please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla

Maunday’s Bay © ATB

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX AEGIS SECURITY SERVICES.....................................................47

MEDIA PUBLISHING INT’L................................................ *IBC

AMY DOES ART........................................................................189

MILANO...................................................................................*IFC

ANGUILLA AIR SERVICES......................................................190

MISS LALIE’S COMMERCIAL CENTER...........................72, 73

BDO ST. MAARTEN..............................................................96-99

MODERN HOMES.................................................................... 2, 3

BEIRUT LEBANESE CUISINE.................................................146

NATURAL HEALTH STORE...................................................139

BELAIR BEACH HOTEL.......................................................24, 25

OCEAN ECHO..........................................................................188

BROWN’S CAR RENTAL........................................................181

OFFICE WORLD.........................................................................95

CARIBBEAN EXTERMINATION STATIA...........................182

OPTIQUE CARAIBES...............................................................166

CARREFOUR MARKET.............................................................27

PARAMOUNT PHARMACHY...............................................185

CELINE CHARTERS..................................................................150

PINK PEARL BAR RESTAURANT.........................................140

CENTRAL MIX CONCRETE...................................................55

POLLOS HERMANOS.............................................................151

CENTURY 21................................................................................15

PORT ST. MAARTEN....................................................... 116-124

C.P.R. EXTERMINATION SERVICES.......................................84

PRINCESS JULIANA INT’L. AIRPORT......................... 112-115

CRISS CONCH SHACK..........................................................190

PRO-N-SPARKLE.........................................................................92

CUBE ELEVATOR COMPANY...........................................16, 17

RENDEZ VOUS LOUNGE......................................................155

ECO TECH SOLUTIONS........................................................148

RICHARDSON’S CAR RENTAL AGENCY.........................189

ELLE-SI-BELLE TOURS & SERVICES......................................151

SAPPHIRE BEACH CLUB RESORT...................................32, 33

ESMERALDA RESORT..............................................................165

SEA SABA....................................................................................172

FALANA COUTURE................................................................131

SIMPSON BAY PHARMACY...................................................149

FRANCIS ECK..............................................................................29

SUPER MARIO AIR CONDITIONING.................12, 13, *BC

FROLIC.........................................................................................151

SXM CIGARS................................................................................65

GIBSON & ASSOCIATES, LAW OFFICES................................ 7

SXM POSH BOUTIQUE..........................................................141

GRANT THORNTON.........................................................88-91

SYLVESTER TAX PARTNERS...................................................101

GREENMEDS SXM......................................................................56

TELEM GROUP................................................................. 126, 127

GUARDIAN GROUP..................................................................37

TIREMAXX..................................................................................145

HEALTH CARE LABORATORY.........................................68, 69

TRICO SUPPLIES.......................................................................181

HEALTHY UPKEEP....................................................................133

ULTIMACY VILLA............................................................. 186, 187

ISLAND CAR RENTAL............................................................191

UNCLE BOB’S PLACE..............................................................138

JEWEL COTTAGE, THE................................................... 175, 177

VICTORIOUS LIVING FOUNDATION...............................137

LA CASA DEL HABANO............................................... 134, 135

VILLA AMALIA.............................................................................49

LE GOUT DU VIN.......................................................................41

VILLA ROYALE RESTAURANT..............................................169

LEISURE CAR RENTAL..............................................................67

WINDWARD ROADS & CONSTRUCTION......................55

LICCOM........................................................................................ 83

XQUISITE HAIR........................................................................150

MAKEUP BY FALANA.............................................................131

ZEE BEST.....................................................................................153

MARY’S BOON BEACH HOTEL.............................................39

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*FC = Front Cover | *IFC = Inside Front Cover | *IBC = Inside Back Cover | *BC = Back Cover

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