The Simpson Bay Bridge serves as the primary gateway for ships entering Simpson Bay Lagoon, St Maarten’s renowned natural harbor. This harbor supports a vibrant nautical industry, from rigging, electrical and chandlery stores to a variety of supermarkets, bars, restaurants, provisioning suppliers, marinas and so much more.
Historical Significance
Despite its smaller stature compared to its younger sibling, the Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway Bridge, the Simpson Bay Bridge has played a pivotal role in St Maarten’s history. Before the bridge and the road to Philipsburg via Harold Jack were constructed, Simpson Bay was a secluded fishing village, accessible only by sea. This bridge has been crucial in the development of Simpson Bay, Maho, Cupecoy, and the Princess Juliana International Airport areas.
The legacy of the old fishing village is honored near the bridge at the Simpson Bay Fish Market, featuring a statue of a fisherman.
The St. Maarten Yacht Club
Adjacent to the bridge, the St Maarten Yacht Club, open to non-members, offers an excellent vantage point to watch yachts and sailing ships pass when the bridge opens. The sight of megayachts and catamarans lining up for their turn to pass is a spectacle not to be missed.
The Heineken Regatta
Each year in early March, the Simpson Bay Bridge gains international attention during the Heineken Regatta. With extra opening times, the bridge sees a flurry of activity as hundreds of ships sail to and from the regatta headquarters at the St Maarten Yacht Club.
Bridge Operations
The Simpson Bay Bridge operates on a set schedule:
- 8:30 AM (Outbound boats)
- 9:30 AM (Inbound boats)
- 10:30 AM (Outbound boats)
- 11:30 AM (Inbound boats)
- 3:00 PM (Inbound boats)
- 4:00 PM (Outbound boats)
Contact the bridge authorities on VHF channel 12 or at +1-721-545-5230 / 545-3183.
The bridge’s average height is 2.4 meters, varying with tides, with a channel width of 17 meters and a controlling depth of 6 meters.
The lovely image is c/o SXM Posters – find them on instagram: @sxm_posters or here: www.sxmposters.com/