PHILIPSBURG

• SXPHI
• Latitude: 18.013
• Longitude: -63.0468
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Sint Maarten

Location: Philipsburg Sint Maarten Sint Maarten

Web-site: http://www.portstmaarten.com

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Philipsburg is the main port and capital of the Dutch side of the island of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean. It serves as a significant hub for both commercial and cruise activities in the region. Here are the details and specifications for the Philipsburg marine port:

General Information:

• Location: Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (Dutch side)
• Coordinates: Approximately 18.019510° N latitude, -63.045497° W longitude
• Country: Sint Maarten, Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC -4

Port Infrastructure:

1. Port Facility:

   • Great Bay: The bay accommodates the port facilities, serving both cargo handling and passenger services.
   • Cruise Terminal: The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities includes several piers for docking large cruise ships.

2. Berths and Terminals:

   • The port has multiple berths for varying vessel sizes including:
     • Cruise Berths: Typically, capable of accommodating some of the largest cruise ships in service.
     • Cargo Berths: Facilities for container ships and general cargo vessels.

3. Draft and Depth:

   • Berths Depth: Up to approximately 33 feet (10 meters) to accommodate medium to large-sized vessels.

4. Cargo Handling and Warehousing:

   • Equipped with modern facilities for efficient loading and unloading of cargo.
   • Warehousing facilities available for storage and logistical needs.

Services:

1. Passenger Services:

   • Extensive cruise facilities with amenities for passengers, including customs and immigration processing.
   • Close proximity to the town of Philipsburg, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions.

2. Cargo Services:

   • Handling of a variety of cargo including containerized goods, bulk materials, and general cargo.
   • Services include storage, stevedoring, and logistical support.

3. Support Services:

   • Bunkering services available for refueling ships.
   • Ship repair and maintenance facilities.
   • Pilotage services are available for navigating in and out of the port safely.
   • Tugging services to assist in docking and undocking.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Well-developed road connections to the rest of Sint Maarten, including access to the main airport, Princess Juliana International Airport.
• Air Access: Close proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport enhances connectivity for cargo and passengers alike.
• Distances:
  • To Airport: Approx. 9 km (15-minute drive).

Regulations and Security:

• International Standards: Compliant with international shipping regulations, including safety and environmental standards.
• Security: Adherence to ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code ensuring high-level port security measures.

Nearby Attractions:

• Beaches: Close proximity to popular beaches such as Great Bay Beach.
• Shopping: Duty-free shopping is available in Philipsburg.
• Cultural Sites: Historic sites like the Front Street and Fort Amsterdam.

Economic Impact:

• Tourism: Major driver of tourism due to the high volume of cruise ship traffic.
• Trade: Integral to the economy for import and export activities, supporting local businesses and industry.

Philipsburg's port stands as a pivotal maritime facility that significantly contributes to the economy and connectivity of Sint Maarten, catering to the needs of both commercial and recreational maritime activities.