Bridges

When the bridges open for boats, the road closes for about 10 minutes. Plan the airport run around them.

Next opening

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🚗 Will I make it?

Drive time from where you are, against the next opening at each bridge — and a "leave now" nudge if you want one.

For captains

Call ahead

Simpson Bay & Causeway: VHF 12, +1 721 545-5230. Sandy Ground: VHF 16, +590 590 87 50 04. Outbound vessels have priority at Sandy Ground.

Fees (Simpson Bay Bridge)

Charged per opening by vessel length, roughly $7 for 9–12 m up to $500 for 36 m+. On-demand openings outside the schedule are $1,000. Causeway and Sandy Ground are free.

Clearances

Simpson Bay Bridge: 17 m wide, 2.4 m air draft when closed. Causeway: 23 m wide, 6.2 m closed. Sandy Ground: 10 m wide, 3.5–3.8 m depth.

Season changes

Port St. Maarten adjusts the schedule between high season and hurricane season (mid-June to mid-November). Always confirm on VHF the day you move.

🔔 Get told before it opens

A notification about 25 minutes ahead, so you can cross or wait somewhere with a drink. Turn it on →