MARITIME INFORMATION
Vessel relevant information when visiting Sint Maarten
Services
Explore coastal wonders the island has to offer.
St. Maarten is renowned as a premier yachting destination in the Caribbean. With state-of-the-art marinas, professional yacht services, and a bustling yacht charter market, you can indulge in luxury sailing or embark on thrilling yacht races.
All arriving vessels must clear in on the Dutch or French side of the island upon arrival.
Find information on the 3 bridges in St Maarten and St Martin.
Find the great selection of state-of-the-art marinas perfect to meet your yachting needs.
Set sail for an extraordinary yachting experience in St. Maarten, where a tapestry of stunning anchorages awaits.
Discover St. Maarten / Saint Martin, a paradise where an extensive selection of marine services is ready to cater to your every need.
Clearing In
When arriving to St. Maarten, all vessels must clear in and out at the Immigration Department.
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.The French Side
As the island of Saint Martin is half French and half Dutch, immigration procedures are different on each side of the island. Paperwork must be done upon arrival and departure. The immigration department is located at the harbor terminal on the waterfront in Marigot. Open- Monday to Friday:
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- 8:00am to noon
- 2:00pm to 4:00pm
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- Saturday:
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- 8:00am to 12:00
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- Sunday:
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- closed
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The clearance is free, but the anchorage fees in Marigot Bay are payable on the spot. Present passports, original copies of boat documents and clearance from last port of departure.
Tel.: 05 90 29 67 83Custom & 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. Both Customs and Immigration clearing in are done by the immigration officials at your port of entry.
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 visa can par- take in the visa waiver program.
For more information on this program please visit our website www.yachtingstmaarten.com or e-mail the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association office at contact us for more info.
Drugs & Firearms
In keeping with most Caribbean islands, drugs are illegal and the penalties for possession are severe. Yachtsmen caught with drugs risk losing their vessel as well as their freedom. All firearms, ammunition and explosives carried aboard your vessel should be declared to the authorities when you clear in. Failure to do so could well result in your vessel being impounded if you are caught, together with a fine or jail sentence.Buoyage System
Both St. Maarten and St. Martin use the American ‘red-right-returning’ buoyage system. Mariners should take care not to confuse the buoys when crossing the Simpson 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.
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. Failure to do so will result in your vessel being impounded and your person being fined and/or sentenced to imprisonment. Drugs possession is illegal and will lead to the same punishment as mentioned before. Fire arms possession is only legal if declared and the owner has a legal permit of his country of origin and the arms are safely secured. In all other cases the fire arms will be confiscated.
Area Guide
There are many reefs around this and most other islands in the Caribbean. It is strongly recommended that yachtsmen consult proper charts at all times when navigating local waters as entrances to anchorages and marinas can be extremely deceptive. Check in the classified section of this directory for local chart suppliers. Excellent cruising guides to the waters of this and nearby islands have been published by the likes of Chris Doyle, Cruising Guide Publications and Donald Street. These guides are very informative but should be used in conjunction with a local chart.
Fee Collection
In addition, to immigration clearance, all vessels entering Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon are by law required 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.
Office telephone number: +1 (721) 545-3183
Simpson Bay Police Station: +1 (721) 545-5500
Documents to present when Clearing your Vessel In:
- Clearance Documents of your last Port of Departure
- Immigration Clearance Documents
- Customs Clearance Documents
- Vessel Registry Document
- Crew List / Passports
All vessels have to receive clearance from Immigration, Customs and the Lagoon Authority before departing to their next harbor of destination. Failure to do so will result in unforeseen delays and fines.
Police Dock
The Police Dock situated in the channel of the Simpson Bay Bridge, can only be used by dinghies that come to the Police Station for the services of the Police, Immigration, Customs or the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority. It can be used for pick ups and drop-off’s but no tenders should be left here unattended for any length of time. It is also an active ferry dock.
VISA WAIVER PROGRAM FOR YACHT CREW
Visiting Crew members from countries on the visa required list, without a Dutch Caribbean Visa, or a Multiple Entry – Shengin, US or Canadian Visa, can partake in the visa waiver program through the services of a registered agent.
Bridge Info
Find information on the 3 bridges in St Maarten and St Martin
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 56 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
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.
Transiting:
No anchorage is allowed in the fare ways. The access fare way from sea to the bridge channel should always stay open. The inbound traffic should position their vessels along side the fare way so the outbound traffic has free passage to sea. Behind the airport strip in the lagoon there is a no-an- choring zone.
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.
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.
SIMPSON BAY BRIDGE
Entry Protocal through Simpson Bay Bridge
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 Simpson Bay Bridge in the following order:
Causeway Bridge
The Causeway Bridge spanning the full width of Simpson Bay Lagoon. The Causeway 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.
The Causeway opened December 15, 2013, this major change to Island vehicular arteries is a welcome addition.
Marine Weather
The St. Maarten Cruiser’s net, which can be heard at 0730 hrs. on VHF channel 14 Monday to Saturday, begin their transmission with a marine weather report. At 0900, during their morning music show, Island 92 (91.9 FM) broadcast a comprehensive marine weather forecast and overall synopsis, which they repeat at 12-noon. On the internet, one can log onto www.caribwx.com for a concise Caribbean meteorological information, updated daily at 0800 Monday-Saturday. The St. Maarten Daily Herald newspaper publishes a marine/local weather forecast every day.
Area Guide
There are many reefs around this and most other islands in the Caribbean. It is strongly recommended that yachtsmen consult proper charts at all times when navigating local waters as entrances to anchorages and marinas can be extremely deceptive. Check in the classified section of this directory for local chart suppli- ers. Excellent cruising guides to the waters of this and nearby islands have been published by the likes of Chris Doyle, Cruising Guide Publications and Donald Street. These guides are very informative but should be used in conjunction with a local chart.Bridge Openings
When arriving to St. Maarten and inside the Simpson Bay Lagoon or any of the marinas in the Lagoon, you will need to consider the bridge openings. Below the opening schedule.
Simpson Bay Bridge
Dutch Side Average height closed 2.4m Bridge width 17.0m Controlling Depth 6.0m Speed limit 5 knots Contact +1 721 545 5230 / 520 2059 VHF 12
- OUTBOUND
- 8.30 hrs Outbound Traffic
- 10.30 hrs Outbound Traffic
- 16.00 hrs Outbound Traffic
- INBOUND
- 9.30 hrs Inbound Traffic
- 11.30 hrs Inbound Traffic
- 15.00 hrs Inbound Traffic
- 17.00 hrs Inbound Traffic
Causeway Bridge
Dutch side Average height closed 6.2m Bridge width 23.0m Controlling depth 6.0m Speed limit 5 knots Contact +1 721 545 5230 / 520 2059 VHF 12
- 8.15 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 10.00 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 11.45 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 15.30 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 17.15 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
French Side Bridge
French Side Average height closed 3m Bridge width 10m Controlling depth 3.5m Speed limit 3 knots Contact + 590 590 87 20 43 VHF 16
- 9.00 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 14.30 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
- 17.30 hrs In & Outbound Traffic
Marine Emergency Numbers
Marinas
Find the great selection of state-of-the-art marinas perfect to meet your yachting needs.
Our Marinas & Services
A few of the Mega Yacht Marinas
Sint Maarten is a popular destination for megayachts and offers several marinas with excellent facilities and services. A few of the well-known marinas are located on the Dutch side of the island. These marina’s offers a wide range of amenities, including 24-hour security, on-site restaurants, and a fuel dock.
In terms of megayachts, Sint Maarten has become a hub for these luxurious vessels. The island hosts several high-profile events throughout the year, such as the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, which attracts many yachts to the island. Many of these vessels can be seen docked in the marinas of Sint Maarten, and the island has become a popular destination for megayacht owners and enthusiasts alike.
In terms of megayachts, Sint Maarten has become a hub for these luxurious vessels. The island hosts several high-profile events throughout the year, such as the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, which attracts many yachts to the island. Many of these vessels can be seen docked in the marinas of Sint Maarten, and the island has become a popular destination for megayacht owners and enthusiasts alike.
Port De Plaisance
A full-service marina with 90 slips, for vessels up to 260' and includes amenities such as restaurants, a casino, and a resort.
Isle Del Sol - IGY
Isle Del Sol is a private marina community with 40 slips for yachts up to 300 feet and features a clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts.
IGY: Simpson Bay Marina
Simpson Bay Marina features 126 slips for yachts up to 250 feet and includes amenities such as a fuel dock, restaurants, and a laundry facility.
Bobby's Marina
Bobby's Marina offers various docking options with 150 slips for boats of various sizes up to 300 feet.
Dock Maarten
Dock Maarten offers premium docking with 120 slips for boats up to 250 feet in length.
Lagoon Marina
Lagoon Marina offers state-of-the-art facilities with 70 slips for boats up to 250 feet in length.
Anchorage
St. Maarten, offers tapestry of stunning anchorage.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
This 12 square miles 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. See the section on Bridge Times and Information for full details.
Anse Marcel
Marcel has a picturesque marina that 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 craggy hills affording a good deal of privacy.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, shaling 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.Orient Bay
Claiming to have the finest beach in the Caribbean, Orient Bay also has a couple of good anchorages. One location is at Green Cay at the southern end of the bay and the other is at Pinel Island at the northern end.The anchorage at Green Cay is very useful if you wish to use the beach or its facilities including the nudist beach at Club Orient, and the anchorage off Pinel Island offers palm-fringed beaches. There is excellent snorkeling at both anchorages.
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.
Baie de Marigot
The small town of Marigot, the capital of French St. Martin, lies along the shores of this fairly large protected bay, it is also the location of the main seaport for the French side.
The spacious anchorage is close to the town quay, with easy access to the many shops and restaurants in this typically French port.
A colorful Caribbean market operates from the area adjacent to the quayside and is especially worth visiting for its splendid array of regional fruit, vegetables, and spices. Simpson Bay Lagoon can be accessed from the bay via the Sandy Ground Bridge. Close to the bridge are several marine businesses. Once again, take extra precautions when securing your dinghy – particularly in the evenings.
Oyster Pond
This picturesque lagoon on the eastern side of the island spans the Dutch and French border and is a truly picture postcard anchorage. Access is via a marked channel through the reef and should be treated with caution. 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.
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 close 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.
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 addi- tion 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 roily. It is advisable to exercise extra caution when securing your dinghy as thefts have been known.
Marine Services
This Caribbean island is equipped with a host of professional and reliable marine services
Welcome to St. Maarten / Saint Martin, where a comprehensive range of marine services awaits to cater to your every need. 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 and maintenance services, 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.
From state-of-the-art marinas offering world-class facilities to expert yacht repair and maintenance services, 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.
CHECK OUT OUR DIRECTORY FOR A LIST OF MARINE SERVICES
Discover St. Maarten / Saint Martin, a paradise where an extensive selection of marine services is ready to cater to your every need.
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