PHILIPSBURG:--- Sint Maarten-based charter boats can continue operating in Anguilla under proposed legislation that raised concerns in the local maritime industry, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten said after talks with Anguillian authorities.
Heyliger-Marten said she traveled to Anguilla at her own expense after representatives of Sint Maarten’s maritime industry asked her to look into the proposal. She said the discussions cleared up misunderstandings about whether the legislation would cut off access for local charter boats. The proposal is expected to pass by mid-December 2026.
“What initially appeared to be a serious threat to our charter boat industry turned out to be largely a false alarm,” Heyliger-Marten said. “The proposed legislation is not intended to prevent Sint Maarten-based charter operators from accessing Anguilla. They will be able to continue operating, subject to the conditions and regulations established by the Anguillian authorities.”
Minister calls for review of maritime agreement
Heyliger-Marten said the discussions exposed gaps in communication between the two islands and called for a review of their existing memorandum of understanding on maritime cooperation. She said the agreement should reflect how the maritime sectors operate today and give charter companies a clearer understanding of the rules that apply when they cross between jurisdictions.
The minister pointed to the longstanding economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Sint Maarten and Anguilla, saying maritime transportation helps sustain those relationships. She pledged to continue talks with neighboring authorities and work more closely with Sint Maarten’s maritime industry.
Enforcement also needs attention at home
Heyliger-Marten said the talks also highlighted Sint Maarten’s own maritime rules and how they are enforced. She identified speed restrictions, no-wake zones, anchoring practices, maritime safety, environmental protection, and commercial vessel requirements as areas that need closer attention.
The minister called for a review of local maritime legislation to identify where rules and enforcement need to improve. “Responsible operators should not be placed at a disadvantage because others choose to disregard the rules,” she said.
She also reminded Sint Maarten-based operators that they must comply with local regulations when entering the waters of Anguilla, French Saint-Martin, or St. Barthélemy.
“Regional cooperation must be built on mutual respect, clear rules and fair opportunities for everyone,” Heyliger-Marten said.