Sint Eustatius

Sint Eustatius (Statia) is a quiet cruising stop with a single main anchorage off Oranjestad. Clearance procedures are straightforward, and activity ashore centers on the island’s well-preserved historical sites rather than developed marine infrastructure.

Oranjestad is the focal point for visiting sailors, with direct access ashore to the island’s historic Lower Town fortifications. The compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot during a short stop.

Many crews also visit The Quill National Park, hiking the trail to Mazinga Peak, the highest point on the crater rim. Rising directly behind the town, it offers a clear contrast to time spent aboard. Diving and snorkeling are possible from boats anchored off Oranjestad when conditions allow, but visits are generally brief.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

Sint Eustatius

4.1 ★

Review summary: Anchoring in Sint Eustatius features good holding in sandy bottoms, though significant swell often requires a secondary anchor for stability. Visitors appreciate the island's clear waters and scenic hiking opportunities, with several Reviews mentioning pleasant local interactions and efficient administrative processes.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to Sint Eustatius.

There is a no‑anchor zone and unknown obstructions on the seabed around the main anchorage at Sint Eustatius, and there are reports of unusual and uncharted buoys off the coast here too. See the noforeignland map for details.

During the off-season, few cruising yachts remain in Sint Eustatius. Most sailors migrate to safer locales such as Grenada or Trinidad, where more established marine services and liveaboard communities exist.

• Best times of year to sail here: November to June
• Most common type of shore power: 110V 60Hz (with some dual 110/220V installations)
• Cost for provisioning: High (especially for imported goods)
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)
• Personal security: Considered safe with low crime rates
• Emergency phone numbers: (as per Statia Tourism office)
  • Police: 911
  • Fire: 912
  • Medical: 913
• International dialing code: +599
• Time zone(s): UTC -4

Sint Eustatius's maritime history begins with its early settlement by indigenous peoples, who utilized the island as a part of their inter-island trading routes. The arrival of Europeans in the 1600s marked the beginning of a significant era of colonization, with the Dutch establishing a foothold that has largely persisted through to the present day. Its strategic location attracted various colonial powers, creating a vibrant trading port.

During the 18th century, Statia gained prominence as one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean, often dubbed "The Golden Rock" for its critical role in trade, particularly during the American Revolutionary War. The island's open trade policies fostered its reputation as a hub for goods, despite frequent skirmishes among colonial powers seeking control. Sailors today can explore the well-preserved remnants of its historic trading past.

Modern Statia reflects a quieter phase, focusing on preserving its natural beauty and maritime heritage. The sunken ruins of former trade buildings and the historic Lower Town are highlights for sailors interested in the past. While international trade has waned, the island remains a point of intrigue for those interested in maritime history and the significance of Caribbean trade routes.

Visitors can explore Statia's rich history through landmarks like Fort Oranje, offering insight into the island's military and economic role in regional history. Coupled with diving explorations of shipwrecks, it draws enthusiasts of maritime and historical adventure seeking to unravel the layers of its storied past.