Statia’s harbour is the island’s critical lifeline. As the main maritime gateway, it is essential for the supply of food, fuel, emergency resources, construction materials and commercial goods. A safe and climate-resilient harbour is therefore crucial to the island’s accessibility, economy, and emergency preparedness.

On 28 May 2026, the Island Council adopted Decision 007-2026 IC by majority vote, supporting the Executive Council’s efforts to secure the additional investment required for the harbour project. On 17 June 2026, the Island Council formally requested attention and support from the relevant parliamentary committees in the Netherlands.

Engineering assessments have shown that the existing breakwater is in significantly worse condition than previously expected. As the primary defence protecting access to the harbour, the breakwater is currently too fragile, too low and too short to provide sufficient protection under present and future climate conditions.

The required strengthening and approximately 100-metre extension of the breakwater has resulted in an estimated funding gap of approximately €40 million. The funds made available following Hurricanes Irma and Maria are no longer sufficient to deliver a harbour that meets current standards and future climate resilience requirements.

Despite these challenges, important progress has been made. Works on the container yard and passenger facilities have started, while designs for the breakwater extension are being prepared. Cooperation with Saba on the production of X-Blocs further demonstrates the potential for regional collaboration.

The urgency of the project has also been recognised at national level. A motion requesting the Dutch Government, together with the Public Entity Sint Eustatius, to develop an integrated investment and implementation plan for a future-proof harbour was adopted by the House of Representatives on 23 June 2026. The motion calls for clarity on the required funding and financing options for the strengthening and expansion of the breakwater.

The Executive Council and Island Council emphasise that timely investment decisions are essential to secure the safety, resilience and long-term accessibility of Sint Eustatius’ harbour. The harbour is essential Kingdom infrastructure and must be protected for future generations.