Saint Martin Overview
Island History
Saint Martin is distinguished by more than three centuries of shared French and Dutch heritage.
The island was divided between France and the Netherlands under the Treaty of Concordia in 1648, creating the distinctive two-nation character that remains one of its defining features today. The northern French portion, Saint Martin, became an Overseas Collectivité of France in 2007, while the southern Dutch portion, Sint Maarten, became a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 2010.
Hurricane Irma significantly impacted both sides of the island in 2017, followed by an extensive period of reconstruction and reinvestment in tourism, infrastructure and hospitality. Today, the open border allows residents and visitors to move easily between the French and Dutch sides, combining two distinct cultures, languages and traditions within a single Caribbean island.
You can view more information on the Collectivité of Saint Martin here.
Island Economy
Tourism is central to the Saint Martin/Sint Maarten economy, supported by a well-established hospitality sector, renowned beaches, dining, shopping, yachting, and marine infrastructure. On the French side, the economy is primarily service based, with the tertiary sector accounting for approximately 85% of employment. The island attracts a diverse international tourism market that includes luxury resorts and villas, restaurants, retail, watersports, marinas, and the superyacht industry. Its French Caribbean character, mature tourism infrastructure, and enduring appeal to European and North American visitors have made Saint Martin/Sint Maarten one of the Caribbean’s most recognized international resort destinations.
Climate
Saint Martin enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, moderated by prevailing Caribbean trade winds. Year-round temperatures, abundant sunshine and warm Caribbean waters support an active outdoor lifestyle and a long resort season.
Beaches & Recreation
Saint Martin/Sint Maarten is renowned for its beaches and clear Caribbean waters, offering year-round opportunities for swimming, sailing, snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking and other watersports. From protected bays and quiet coves to lively beach clubs and waterfront dining, the island’s diverse coastline is an integral part of its international resort appeal.
Yachting & Marine Infrastructure
Simpson Bay Lagoon is one of the Caribbean’s established yachting and marine-services centers. Its protected waters are surrounded by marinas, yacht provisioning, maintenance, repair and refit services supporting both recreational vessels and superyachts. Yacht Club Isle de Sol accommodates superyachts up to 320 feet (97 meters), while the broader Simpson Bay marine industry provides extensive in-water maintenance, haul-out, provisioning and technical services. Princess Juliana International Airport is located immediately adjacent to the lagoon, providing convenient international access for yacht owners, guests and crews.