Not just the entry point for millions of tourists, Port St. Maarten is a hub for the region
Port St. Maarten is a vital asset to the economy of Sint Maarten, serving as the primary entry point for the majority of its visitors. First impressions count and the port makes sure visitors are not disappointed. Port St. Maarten is one of the premier ports in the Caribbean, known for its strategic importance, diverse business operations and role as a key hub for cruise tourism, cargo handling and yachting. As a government-owned entity, the Port St. Maarten Group of Companies operates with the efficiency and business mindset of a private company while maintaining strong ties with the government. “We conduct our business as a private entity,” explains Alexander Gumbs, the port’s CEO, adding that they coordinate closely with the Minister of Tourism to ensure alignment with national economic and tourism goals.
Port St. Maarten’s operations are centered around three main business pillars: cruise operations, cargo handling and yachting, with real estate serving as a foundational support for these activities. “We have strategic agreements with several cruise brands and the arrival of hundreds of cruise ships annually,” Gumbs explains. The port ranks as one of the top cruise destinations worldwide — globally positioned at number five or six and ranked third or fourth in the Caribbean, behind only Port Miami and other leading cruise destinations. Figures from 2024 are expected to indicate 1.4 million cruise passengers with this number expected to increase to approximately 1.55 to 1.6 million in 2025, underscoring the port’s resilience and strategic growth plans.
Beyond cruises, the port plays a critical role in regional cargo distribution. As a major hub for nearby islands such as St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Anguilla, Port St. Maarten ensures steady a flow of goods through its extensive cargo facilities. “Over the years we’ve also invested significantly in our cargo product,” Gumbs notes, highlighting its importance to regional trade and logistics.
Investment in infrastructure remains key, with over $65 million allocated for improvements over the next seven years, including beautification projects, expanded port facilities and enhanced safety measures to improve the overall experience for visitors and stakeholders. “We fully welcome and endorse investment opportunities,” Gumbs adds, and adds that passengers on average have been to Sint Maarten at least three times. “That also puts a beautiful challenge to the destination to continue to reinvest itself, reinvent itself and to further showcase the opportunities of other inland experiences.”
Prime destination for cruises and yachts
Port St. Maarten continues to attract new cruise lines like Virgin Voyages, which recently included the island in its itinerary along with stalwarts Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean. The island’s unique blend of Dutch and French heritage, tax-free shopping and diverse attractions including 37 pristine beaches make it a top choice for travelers worldwide. The port also plays a significant role in the yachting industry, leveraging the natural advantages of Simpson Bay Lagoon, one of the largest island lagoons in the West Indies. Yachts and private jets frequently bring high-net-worth individuals to the island, contributing to its reputation as a luxury destination. As Gumbs explains, “Tying into the attractiveness of Sint Maarten from a yachting perspective, we have a comprehensive maritime industry here, very important from the services standpoint.” He continues, saying “If there’s work to be done, we have a lot of skilled maritime professionals in the Simpson Bay area. From a fabrication or mechanical and electrical standpoint, those services are readily available here at good prices.”
Port St. Maarten recently hosted the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Conference and Trade Show which drew 800 attendees, including nearly 100 cruise executives. This high-profile gathering provided a platform for key discussions on the future of cruise tourism and economic development in the region. The conference generated substantial economic impact, with attendees contributing to hotel stays, dining, transportation and cultural activities. “Many of the executives and delegates came with additional family members so that 800 could have easily been 1,100 or 1,200 people,” Gumbs notes, emphasizing the ripple effect of hosting major industry events. Port St. Maarten stands as a beacon of innovation and economic growth in the Caribbean and will shape the industry for years to come.