PORT--The skies over Great Bay will most likely not be illuminated by colourful fireworks to ring in 2018 at the stroke of midnight on January 1, 2018.
Word from Port St. Maarten is that the company is unable to fork out the US $50,000 for the annual fireworks show.
The cruise arrivals and business in general at Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities were hard hit by monster Hurricane Irma on September 6. The country’s tourism sector and life in general are still in recovery mode. Top of the Port’s agenda are meeting its regular financial obligations, of which footing the bill for the fireworks isn’t one.
The fireworks show viable from Boardwalk Boulevard, Great Bay Beach and surrounding areas to welcome the New Year has been an island staple for more than a decade with thousands of people gathering to party and enjoy the free show.
Unless some other company or individual picks up the show, the skies will remain dark heading into 2018.
The large firework display Maho is also not confirmed as Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and other hotels in the area sustained severe damage in Irma.
