The St. Maarten Harbour Group’s cruise facilities welcomed six commercial cruise ships on Nov. 25,  2010 which included approximately 21,000 passengers and 7,700 crew members – the most the port has docked in one day since it opened in November 2009. 

 “The ongoing growth of our cruise port has had significant impact in the overall tourism growth to St. Maarten,” Keith D. Franca, Chief Operating Officer for The Harbour Group of Comanies.  “The Harbour Group has given vacationers the chance to explore the island beyond the port facilities by providing safe and convenient transportation for travelers via water taxi, bus tours, taxi and a walking path into our capital city of Philipsburg.” 

Passengers and crew who decide to stay at the port can enjoy a piece of classic St. Maarten while shopping in Harbour Point Village consisting of 12 shops and 12 market stalls and bars all fashioned to resemble the experience of an old Caribbean market. 

To help celebrate the port’s success and ring in the New Year, Mark Mingo, Harbour Group CEO, has helped planned an elaborate firework show for New Year’s Eve.  Over the past six years the annual show has attracted massive crowds to the Great Bay Beach boardwalk. Mingo is determined to make this year extra special and has arranged for the fireworks to be completely computerised for the first time and choreographed with the brightest colors and latest designs.

“We have made an effort to make New Year’s on the boardwalk and the holiday season a true time of giving to thank our loyal travelers for choosing St. Maarten as one of their vacation stops,” Mingo said.  “This year’s extensive firework show is our way of thanking the over two million passengers who have come to the port since 2009 and people who continue to support our island.  We encourage vacationers from around the world to welcome 2011 with a festive celebration in St. Maarten.”