Simpson Bay Lagoon
Sint Maarten
Simpson Bay Lagoon, also known as The Great Pond, is a vast inland lagoon located on the island of Saint Martin in the Caribbean. It is unique in that the international border between the French Collectivité de Saint-Martin and the Dutch Sint Maarten runs through its center. The lagoon includes two small islands: Grand Ilet (Explorer's Island) on the French side and Little Key on the Dutch side. Historically, it was a lake until a hurricane in 1819 breached the natural isthmus, transforming it into a lagoon. Today, it connects to the Caribbean Sea through two narrow channels, one flowing into Baie Nettlé in the French part and the other into Simpson Bay in Sint Maarten. The lagoon supports significant seagrass and mangrove habitats, including the protected Mullet Pond area, a Ramsar site since 2014. Despite its ecological importance, the lagoon faces environmental challenges such as pollution from land-based sewage and invasive species. Economically, the lagoon is central to Sint Maarten's marine industry, providing a safe harbor for vessels and hosting major yachting events like the Caribbean Multihull Challenge and the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. The proximity of Princess Juliana International Airport enhances accessibility, while the 2013 Simpson Bay Causeway Bridge has improved connections across the lagoon.
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Tip: The best time to visit Simpson Bay Lagoon is during the winter yachting high season when the waters are calm and vibrant events like the Caribbean Multihull Challenge and St. Maarten Heineken Regatta take place. Visitors should consider exploring the lagoon by boat to appreciate its natural habitats and marine activities. While the lagoon is accessible year-round, checking local weather and event schedules can enhance the experience. No specific ticketing is required for the lagoon itself, but booking tours or charters in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Be mindful of environmental preservation efforts and avoid areas with high pollution or algae growth.
Interesting facts
- •Simpson Bay Lagoon is one of the largest inland lagoons in the West Indies.
- •The lagoon straddles the international border between the French and Dutch sides of Saint Martin island.
- •It contains two islands: Grand Ilet (Explorer's Island) on the French side and Little Key on the Dutch side.
- •Mullet Pond within the lagoon is a protected Ramsar site known for its red mangroves.
- •The lagoon supports vital seagrass and mangrove habitats that nurture juvenile reef fish populations.
- •Sint Maarten's marine industry centered around the lagoon accounts for 12.5% of the island's economy.
- •Major yachting events such as the Caribbean Multihull Challenge and St. Maarten Heineken Regatta are held in the lagoon area.
History
Originally a lake, Simpson Bay Lagoon was transformed into a lagoon after a hurricane in 1819 breached the natural isthmus at Pelican, isolating the local fishing community for about a century.
Mid-20th century developments included the construction of an artificial canal at the current Simpson Bay Lagoon Bridge, replacing the original natural waterway.
The lagoon has historically served as a critical maritime hub and continues to be economically significant for Sint Maarten, especially in the marine and yachting industries.
In 2013, the Simpson Bay Causeway Bridge was opened, improving transport links between Marigot and the airport area.
Place Guide
Grand Ilet (Explorer's Island)
The larger of the two islands within Simpson Bay Lagoon, located on the French side. It is a natural habitat area contributing to the lagoon's biodiversity.
Little Key
The smaller island on the Dutch Sint Maarten side of the lagoon, contributing to the lagoon's unique geography.
Mullet Pond2014
A section of Simpson Bay Lagoon notable for its extensive red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle), protected as a Ramsar wetland site since 2014.
Simpson Bay Causeway Bridge2013
Opened in 2013, this bridge connects Marigot with the northern end of Princess Juliana International Airport, significantly reducing travel time around the lagoon.
