Underwater Marvel at UnderSXM
(Photo courtesy of UnderSXM)
A new diving / snorkeling experience!
From Carnival celebrations to Taíno heritage and legends of old, this immersive experience not only honors local traditions but also supports marine conservation.
Meeting the fish and other marine life that call St. Maarten/St. Martin home is as easy as diving or snorkeling beneath the cool, aquamarine waves. But did you know you can also connect with the island’s people and learn more about its rich history?
This is all possible at Under SXM, the island’s newest underwater eco-attraction. This artificial reef sculpture adventure park in Little Bay comprises more than 300 artificial reef sculptures placed along a designated trail. This immersive experience offers guests an unforgettable snorkeling adventure.
These sculptures honor the island’s rich history and culture, each crafted by handpicked members of the local community. This unique artistry creates a deep connection between the people, the land, and the sea that surrounds their cherished home.
One of the underwater galleries, known as “Resilience,” includes a fallen wall. The wall, created by renowned street artist Lily Hinckfoot, is pulled back by sculptures representing 30 nationalities. It symbolizes the island’s rich cultural diversity and its people’s ability to come together to overcome adversity.
This brings us to an underwater carnival! This eco-attraction showcases a lively carnival scene beneath the waves, capturing the spirit of celebration. The sculptures come alive with the energy of Carnival, featuring local musical masters King Beau Beau, DJ Outkast, and King James leading the revelry from the ocean floor.
Ponum, a traditional dance celebrating emancipation, is another facet of the island’s history and culture. Inspired by the petals of St. Maarten/St. Martin’s ubiquitous flamboyant tree, 35 dancers appear to sway and shuffle to the beat of six drummers beneath the waves.
Swimming further, the underwater sculpture gallery features over 100 figurative sculptures portraying the Taíno people’s history, art, and natural beauty. These sculptures celebrate the deep connection between the island’s history, art, and natural beauty.
Speaking of history, the legend of how the Dutch and French drew the island’s borders is also depicted beneath the waves. A Dutchman and a Frenchman are shown back-to-back, frozen in time under the white-capped waves. The underwater sculptures are more than just a new attraction—they play a pivotal role in creating a protected habitat for marine species to thrive and alleviating stress on natural coral reefs.
Made from eco-friendly, pH-neutral materials, these sculptures create safe habitats for juvenile fish and encourage coral growth, enhancing the marine ecosystem with stable surfaces for coral, sponges, and other organisms to thrive. Additionally, a portion of Under SXM’s revenue is reinvested in the local community, promoting ocean education and conservation initiatives.
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