Thanks Barbara for the post with all the links... I thought this was going to be for more large cruise ships like those that come to Phillipsburg. But it's something for those ships that fall between those large ships and regular ships that can fit into the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Still the overall plan means other big changes for that area.
(From Simpson Bay Development Plan - Printed Page No. 37)
There have been plans for some time for constructing a pier where cruise ships can moor. Not the large cruise ships, like the ones arriving in Philipsburg, nor the smaller ships that continue on into the Lagoon, but a size in between (for example, mega yachts). The concept not only calls for providing a boarding point, but also for tourism facilities on or near the pier. This development would give Simpson Bay Village and the island an economic boost. This would also provide recreational facilities for the residents of this area. Public accessibility to the pier is therefore considered important.
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(From Simpson Bay Development Plan - Printed Page No. 70)
New pier
Space has been reserved for a new pier, just outside the Lagoon, adjacent to the Lejuez drawbridge. This pier might provide space for mega yachts and small cruise ships. The objective is to be able to accommodate more day tourists at this location as well. Mega yachts are currently too big to be able to enter the Lagoon and therefore do not, or barely, have an opportunity to berth at Sint Maarten. In view of the major role of tourism in the economy of Sint Maarten, the public authorities would like to accommodate this size ship as a means of optimizing the additional potential. Aside from mooring these ships, the pier itself can ben quipped with supporting facilities, such as a few shops, a small administrative office and attractions.
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