ST MAARTEN

• SXSXM
• Latitude: 18.0365
• Longitude: -63.0915
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Sint Maarten

Location: Sint Maarten

Port of St. Maarten, Sint Maarten: Description and Specifications

Overview

The Port of St. Maarten, located on the southern part of the island in Phillipsburg, is a crucial marine port and one of the busiest in the Caribbean. Known for its strategic location and modern facilities, the port serves a wide range of functions including cruise ship docking, cargo handling, and yachting.

Key Features and Facilities

Cruise Terminal:

• Pier Specifications: The A.C. Wathey Pier is the primary cruise facility with two dedicated cruise piers accommodating up to six large cruise ships simultaneously.
• Berth Length: The main pier length totals approximately 545 meters on the north side and 445 meters on the south side.
• Depth: Water depth alongside is about 10.5 meters, suitable for large modern cruise ships.
• Passenger Capacity: The cruise terminal can handle over 1.2 million passengers yearly.

Cargo Terminal:

• Berths: There are several berths dedicated to cargo operations, handling containerized cargo, breakbulk, and bulk cargo.
• Container Handling: Equipped with modern container handling equipment including mobile harbor cranes and reach stackers.
• Storage Facilities: The port provides ample storage facilities including container yards, warehouses, and refrigerated storage.
• Depth: The draft at cargo berths ranges around 10 to 15 meters, accommodating a variety of cargo vessels.

Yachting and Small Craft Facilities:

• Marinas: St. Maarten is renowned for its yachting facilities with several state-of-the-art marinas.
• Amenities: Marinas offer amenities like water, electricity, fuel, repair services, and internet access.

Port Services

• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage service is available for all incoming vessels.
• Towage: Tug services are available to assist vessels docking and undocking.
• Bunkering: Bunkering facilities provide fuel for both ships and yachts.
• Waste Management: Waste collection and disposal services are compliant with international standards.

Navigation and Safety

• Navigational Aids: The port is well-equipped with modern navigational aids including buoys, beacons, and radar.
• Security: The port maintains high security standards, compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Weather Protection: The port has limited protection from adverse weather, but contingency plans for hurricane season are in place.

Connectivity

• Road Access: The port connects efficiently to the island's road network ensuring smooth cargo movement to and from the port.
• Air Access: Situated approximately 15 km from Princess Juliana International Airport, facilitating seamless passenger transfer.

Economic and Strategic Importance

The Port of St. Maarten is a pillar of the island's economy, significantly supporting both the tourism and trade sectors. It acts as a regional hub due to its modern infrastructure and efficient services making it an attractive stop for cruise lines and cargo ships alike.

Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

The port authority is committed to sustainable practices, implementing measures to reduce environmental impact, such as waste management programs and investing in green technologies.

Contact Information

• Port Authority: St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies
• Address: John Craane Cruise Terminal, PO Box 518, Philipsburg, St. Maarten
• Website: Port of St. Maarten Official Website

The Port of St. Maarten continues to grow and adapt, aiming to maintain its position as one of the Caribbean's leading ports through continued investment and development.