St. Maarten is experiencing a notable surge in tourism, with data from the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau indicating a 16.9% increase in airport arrivals and a 14% rise in cruise ship visitors during the second quarter of 2025, compared to the same timeframe last year. This positive trend has continued into the summer months, bolstering expectations for further growth as new airlift options and hotel projects become available over the next two years.
Travelers can anticipate expanded flight options as Z Air has introduced service from Curacao to Princess Juliana Airport. Additionally, several airlines are set to enhance air service to St. Maarten, promising to further elevate accessibility to this Caribbean paradise.
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United Airlines is set to commence weekend flights from Chicago starting in October. These flights will depart O’Hare at 8:45 a.m. and reach St. Maarten by 10:37 a.m. on both Saturdays and Sundays.
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American Airlines will initiate weekly service from Chicago on Saturdays beginning November 8.
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Contour Airlines plans to launch a tri-weekly service from San Juan starting November 14, operating on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays with convenient departure times.
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JetBlue has announced the introduction of service from Fort Lauderdale in December, operating four flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
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Winair is expanding its winter 2025 schedule to include six weekly flights to both Barbados and St. Lucia, along with twice-weekly service to St. Vincent.
- Southwest Airlines will begin offering daily nonstop flights from Orlando in April 2026, along with weekend service from Baltimore, with flights departing BWI Airport at 8:10 a.m. and scheduled to arrive in St. Maarten at 12:25 p.m.
Exciting New Accommodations
As St. Maarten’s tourism evolves, its hospitality sector is set to welcome a range of luxurious new accommodations.
The Vie L’Ven Resort and Residences is currently under construction, aiming for a grand opening during the 2027/28 high season. This prestigious project will boast a 30,000-square-foot destination spa, a beach club, a private dock, and over 600 feet of pristine shoreline. Guests can anticipate culinary delights from a signature restaurant led by the renowned Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse. The development will also comprise 280 residences equipped with private plunge pools, expansive terraces, and breathtaking ocean views, all made available for rental.
In addition, the Elie Saab Villas project at Indigo Bay is under development, promising twelve luxury homes within a 150-acre gated community. Each villa will feature sophisticated amenities such as private elevator access, heated infinity pools, Jacuzzis, and smart-home systems. Interiors will be furnished by Elie Saab Maison, offering custom kitchens, closets, and bathrooms that align with the luxury experience.
Travel advisors will have the opportunity to book these exclusive villas for clients through a dedicated rental program, ensuring an unforgettable stay in this exquisite location.
For more information on checking flight availability and booking options, visit the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. As the destination gears up for this influx of visitors and enhanced offerings, St. Maarten remains a premier choice for travelers seeking a stunning getaway.
