Sint Maarten Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Sint Maarten

• Sint Maarten is generally a safe destination for travelers.
• Petty crime is most likely to occur in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as theft of unsecured property or vehicle break-ins.
• Beware of overcharges and scams in tourist areas. You may encounter aggressive vendors. Most sites have tourist police available to help in uncomfortable situations.
• Crime rates are low. However, armed robberies occur at businesses storing large amounts of cash or involved in drug or gang activities.
• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Sint Maarten. You may face arrest and detention for long periods of time.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Sint Maarten to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in St Maarten

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in St Maarten, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

There is a risk of petty theft and street crime. The main tourist areas are generally safe.

To reduce the risk to yourself and your belongings:

• avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark
• use licensed taxis
• avoid taking valuables to the beach
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash or jewellery
• make sure purses and handbags are closed and not easy to snatch
• leave valuables in a safety deposit box or secure hotel safe

Drug-related crime

St Maarten is used as a drug passageway from South America to Europe and North America. There can be drug-related violent crime, but this rarely affects tourists. Do not leave bags unattended or agree to carry a package for anyone.

The authorities use body scanners and baggage screening for passengers. There are severe penalties for possessing and trafficking narcotics.

Prostitution

Prostitution is not illegal, but facilitating prostitution without a licence is illegal. St Maarten has adopted a ‘tolerance approach’ to foreign workers in certain establishments on the island. This means that criminal law is not enforced in those locations as long as people follow set requirements.

Risk level

Sint Maarten - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Sint Maarten.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. There have been reports of theft from vehicles, especially rental cars, and boats. Armed robberies and tourists being followed by people on motorcycles have also been reported. Burglaries and break-ins have occurred, with villas bring more vulnerable to these incidents.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid isolated or poorly-lit areas, including beaches
• Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or on boats
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewellery
• Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud may occur.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud