Despite Mega Yacht Incident at Simpson Bay Bridge, Operations Continue

PORT ST. MAARTEN – The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority (SLAC) would like to inform maritime traffic, and stakeholders that the Simpson Bay Bridge remains operational despite an incident with a Mega Yacht on Sunday, January 8 during the opening at 5:00pm for inbound maritime traffic.

Inbound and outbound scheduled bridge openings for maritime traffic will continue as normal as of 8:30 AM on Monday, January 9, however, there will be additional manpower during bridge openings to facilitate the movement of road traffic over the bridge.

Motorists are urged to pay attention to the bridge closure booms and to adhere to the red stop lights and follow any directives given by the staff of SLAC during the opening operations.

Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) personnel carried out a preliminary assessment and bridge operations can continue as normal from the machine room.

A Mega Yacht while entering the Simpson Bay Lagoon struck the SLAC Operations Booth which incurred severe structural damage. There were no injuries to the bridge operator. Wires leading to the operations consoles were also damaged.