SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) – The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) Board said that in recent weeks, there have been reports of thefts of dinghies and break-ins of cruising vessels in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.
“We want to address these incidents with transparency and assure you that St. Maarten remains a welcoming and safe destination for all boaters. Thanks to swift and coordinated efforts, significant progress has been made in addressing the situation. A suspect apprehended at one of the marinas has provided valuable information that has led to the recovery of several stolen dinghies and has shed light on a broader group involved in these activities.
“We are working closely with a dedicated task force comprising detectives, police officers, Port de Plaisance security personnel, and maritime affairs representatives. The Gendarmes have also been informed to ensure cross-border cooperation in tackling these crimes.
“While there are challenges, including jurisdictional complexities between the Dutch and French sides of the island, we are actively engaging leadership on both sides to strengthen collaboration and take decisive action.
“We understand the concerns of the boating community and want to assure you that every effort is being made to address these incidents promptly and effectively. Security measures are being reviewed and enhanced to prevent future occurrences, and we are committed to restoring peace of mind for everyone enjoying the beauty of St. Maarten.
“St. Maarten has always been known for its hospitality, vibrant marine community, and dedication to visitor safety. These unfortunate incidents do not define us, and with the support of our community and law enforcement, we are confident that we will resolve these matters,” according to a statement from the SMMTA Board released on Monday.
SMMTA is a non-profit organization dedicated to looking after the interests of the marine community in St. Maarten. While it is not an official authority, the SMMTA is actively communicating with the relevant agencies and are hopeful to receive further updates on their plan of action soon.
The SMMTA thanks everyone for their patience and trust as they continue to work diligently on this.
St. Maarten remains one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations, and they look forward to welcoming mariners.
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