Simson Bay Lagoon Bridge closed

[speciald]

Without any warning, the Dutch bridge into and, more importantly, out of the Simpson Bay Lagoon on St. Maarten closed and will remain closed until further notice. On inspection a defect was found requiring imediate repair. The French side bridge is still open but access is limited to smaller boats with less draft.

Megayachts are trapped in or out of the lagoon for an unknown period of time. Luckily, the high season for charter is over but these boats rent for up to $250k per week.

I'm also stuck inside but have better than three weeks before I'm scheduled to start North. Hopefully, the needed part will arrive and the repairs will be completed by then.

[PBzeer]

Not something you would normally plan for. Hope you're able to leave on schedule.

[CharlieCobra]

Times like that would almost warrant a tabernacle mast.

[sailingdog]

I guess shoal draft is pretty useful.

[Zanshin]

I was playing with the idea of heading to St. Martin next week or the one thereafter (Island Waterworld / Budget Marine) - what is the draft on the French side? I seem to recall that the channel was narrow and tricky as well.

[speciald]

Depth is 8 feet except for one shallower spot close to bridge. A friend of mine w/ 6 1/2 draft made it two weeks ago without much difficulty. Mine is 7 ft with 85 ft mast. We will try it if we have to in 3+ weeks.

[Zanshin]

I'm going to be alone - how well is the channel marked or should I find a "spotter" before attempting it (I think I draw 6 1/2 or so at the moment)? Is the French side customs procedure as easy as the Dutch one? Perhaps I should call Budge Marine and see what they charge to ship to the BVI and not have to worry about getting into the lagoon. I've anchored outside of the closed bridge before but I'm sure that anchorage is going to get full (plus it is rolly and all those jet skis are an annoyance).

[camaraderie]

Zan...I am showing they have an outlet in St. Thomas at Independent Boatyard. You may want to try there! Email is StThomas@budgetmarine.com
St. Thomas
Independent Boatyard
Estate Frydenhoj
St. Thomas USVI 00802
T: 340-779-2219
F: 340-714-0466 Mon-Sat
8am-5pm
Sun
9am-2pm

[TAK]

Boy..
That would really suk for those on land between Maho/Airport and Simpson Bay if that bridge went out..

[speciald]

Bridge opened this morning for in and out traffic. Wind that had bee gusting to 35-40 kts now down to 10-15.