PRESS RELEASE
Immigration Clearing-In Services Relocated to Princess Juliana International Airport Ferry Dock
SIMPSON BAY, ST. MAARTEN – October 6, 2026 – The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) wishes to advise yacht agents, captains, marinas, charter operators, vessel owners and all other users of the Simpson Bay clearing-in facilities that the Simpson Bay dock will be closed to the public effective Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The closure marks the start of the main construction phase of a comprehensive rebuilding and beautification project at the Simpson Bay dock and surrounding facilities. The works are expected to take approximately two to three months.
Preparatory work has already been underway during the past month, including the removal of lights, damaged fencing, abandoned vehicles and a waste bin from the area. With the commencement of the main construction phase, public access to the dock will now be restricted while the rehabilitation is carried out.
Temporary Immigration Clearing-In Location
To ensure that clearing-in and Immigration services remain available to the maritime community during the works, services normally provided at the Simpson Bay dock have been temporarily relocated to the:
Ferry Dock – Princess Juliana International Airport
Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Expected duration: Approximately two to three months
All yacht agents, captains, vessel operators and other users of the clearing-in facilities are advised to take the temporary location into account when planning vessel arrivals, departures and Immigration formalities.
The Government has indicated that it is also exploring the possibility of establishing an additional temporary service location to further accommodate the maritime community. Discussions regarding this option are ongoing.
Major Upgrade of Simpson Bay Maritime Facilities
The refurbishment project is being undertaken through a partnership between the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) and The Gioia Group.
The project includes the complete reconstruction of the dock to meet modern maritime standards, rebuilding of the parking area, construction of a dedicated garbage room, new trees and landscaping, repairs to the adjacent police station and sewage treatment system, and improvements to the general surroundings of the Police and Immigration facilities.
Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to provide improved services for St. Maarten’s maritime and yachting sector while creating a safer, more organized and welcoming environment for Government personnel, maritime users and the general public.
New parking arrangements and enforcement measures are also expected to form part of the improvements.
The SMMTA encourages all members of the maritime community to share this information with customers, visiting yachts, captains, crews and other parties who may normally use the Simpson Bay dock for Immigration clearance.
The Association will circulate further information should there be any changes to the temporary arrangements or the availability of additional clearing-in facilities.
St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA)