EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE
Welcome to Under SXM – Sint Maarten’s
Premier Artificial Reef Sculpture Adventure Park
Under SXM is a captivating new eco-attraction in Little Bay, Sint Maarten, offering a unique blend of art, history, and conservation. This remarkable underwater experience invites you to explore more than 300 stunning artificial reef sculptures arranged along a scenic snorkeling trail. Each sculpture tells a story, celebrating the vibrant culture and history of Sint Maarten while also supporting the island’s marine ecosystem.
A Snorkeling Adventure Like No Other
At Under SXM, guests are encouraged to snorkel above the underwater gallery, where they can admire the incredible artistry of the sculptures below. These unique creations don’t just showcase the island’s rich heritage; they also serve as a thriving habitat for local marine species. As you drift through the trail, you’ll witness the seamless blend of nature and art—a testament to the harmonious relationship between the sculptures and the surrounding environment.
Protecting and Enhancing Marine Life
The artificial reef sculptures at Under SXM are crafted from environmentally friendly materials, specifically designed to support the local ecosystem. With designated spaces for marine life, the sculptures provide critical sanctuaries for juvenile fish and help encourage coral growth. These purpose-built habitats create a safe, flourishing environment, contributing to the biodiversity of Little Bay and promoting the natural settlement of corals.
Under SXM’s artificial reef project not only supports conservation efforts but also brings new life to the underwater landscape. By fostering a protected habitat for various marine species, we aim to create a thriving marine ecosystem that will be enjoyed by generations to come. This commitment to preserving the environment underscores our dedication to sustainability and responsible tourism in Sint Maarten.
Discover the Spirit of Sint Maarten Underwater
The sculptures at Under SXM are more than just beautiful works of art—they are a celebration of Sint Maarten’s cultural heritage. Each piece was crafted to reflect the island’s dynamic history, blending artistic expression with cultural storytelling. As you snorkel above these artistic installations, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the soul of Sint Maarten, immersing yourself in its legacy and traditions.
This underwater journey offers a rare opportunity to explore Sint Maarten’s heritage in an entirely new way, making Under SXM a must-visit destination for visitors and locals alike. Dive into the island’s unique stories, brought to life beneath the waves, and experience an unforgettable encounter with both nature and culture.
Join Us for an Eco-Conscious Adventure Under SXM
Under SXM’s artificial reef adventure park is an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers who want to make a positive impact while exploring the wonders of the ocean. Here, art, nature, and conservation unite, offering a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience that is as educational as it is breathtaking. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, an art lover, or someone looking to support marine conservation, Under SXM promises an adventure that’s both inspiring and environmentally meaningful.
So, come immerse yourself Under SXM and discover the hidden treasures of Little Bay. Dive into an extraordinary world where the vibrant history, culture, and natural beauty of Sint Maarten come together beneath the surface.
THE ADVENTURE UNDER SXM
Under SXM’s underwater sculpture park is not just an attraction—it’s an immersive journey into the history, culture, and resilience of Sint Maarten and its people. This vibrant gallery beneath the waves takes you through various chapters of the island’s story, from its indigenous roots to its cultural celebrations and spirit of unity. Each installation represents a unique aspect of Sint Maarten’s heritage, designed to inspire reflection and admiration for the island’s past, present, and future.
Taino: Honoring the Indigenous Heritage
The inaugural gallery begins with a powerful homage to the island’s first inhabitants, the Taíno people. Over 100 figurative sculptures portray the Taíno’s history, art, and deep connection to nature. As you snorkel through this part of the gallery, you’ll encounter sculptures that capture the essence of the Taíno culture, from their artistry and spirituality to their respect for the natural world. These sculptures not only showcase the unique beauty of this ancient culture but also celebrate the profound impact the Taíno have had on the island. By exploring this exhibit, visitors can connect with Sint Maarten’s roots and gain a greater appreciation for the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Ponum: A Symbol of Freedom and Emancipation
Ponum is a tribute to one of the most significant moments in Sint Maarten’s history—the emancipation of its people. Conceived as a vibrant tribute to freedom, this installation features thirty-five dancers and six drummers, all crafted to represent the expressions of joy, relief, and hope felt by the community during this pivotal event. Inspired by the vibrant red and orange petals of the Flamboyance Tree, these sculptures evoke the energy and pride of emancipation. This installation captures the spirit of Ponum, a dance that has become a symbol of liberation, resilience, and cultural pride on the island.
Through these sculptures, Under SXM pays homage to the struggles and triumphs of Sint Maarten’s people, celebrating their journey toward freedom and honoring their enduring spirit. Each figure’s expressive posture brings the scene to life, allowing visitors to experience the emotions and aspirations that defined this historical moment.
Resilience: Overcoming Adversity Together
Resilience stands as a testament to Sint Maarten’s indomitable spirit and its people’s ability to rise stronger after adversity. At the heart of this installation is a fallen wall, symbolizing the challenges and natural disasters that have impacted the island. Painted by renowned street artist Lily Hinckfoot, this wall serves as a powerful reminder of both destruction and regeneration. Surrounding the wall are sculptures representing individuals from thirty different nationalities, a nod to Sint Maarten’s diverse and multicultural society.
The Resilience installation highlights the importance of unity and collaboration in rebuilding and moving forward. It is a celebration of the island’s diversity and a tribute to the strong sense of community that defines Sint Maarten. Here, locals and visitors alike are reminded of the island’s strength and the unwavering resolve of its people to rebuild and support one another in the face of hardship.
Carnival: A Celebration of Culture and Joy
Carnival is one of Sint Maarten’s most vibrant and cherished traditions, and the underwater sculpture park captures the energy and excitement of this event in stunning detail. This scene brings to life the joy, unity, and cultural pride of Carnival through sculptures that reflect the island’s pulsating music, colorful costumes, and captivating dances. Join some of Sint Maarten’s musical icons—including King Beau Beau, DJ Outkast, and King James—as they come to life in this immersive underwater celebration.
Carnival represents the heart and soul of Sint Maarten, a time when the entire island comes together to honor its heritage and share its joy with the world. These sculptures celebrate the spirit of Carnival, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant rhythms and lively atmosphere of the island’s biggest celebration. This section of the adventure captures the unity, resilience, and vivacious spirit of Sint Maarten’s people, reminding visitors of the island’s rich cultural tapestry.
Unity: The Story of Sint Maarten’s Borders
In a unique installation that explores the origins of Sint Maarten’s division between French and Dutch territories, Under SXM presents a scene that illustrates a famous local fable. According to legend, a Dutch sailor and a French sailor stood back-to-back and walked around the island’s coast to establish its borders. Where they met became the dividing line between the two territories, creating a shared island with a unique cultural blend.
This installation celebrates the unity that has defined Sint Maarten despite its division into two nations. It’s a reminder of the island’s harmonious coexistence, with both the French and Dutch sides working together to preserve their shared heritage. The Unity exhibit is a celebration of this peaceful division, embodying the spirit of cooperation that characterizes Sint Maarten’s cultural landscape.
Experience the Adventure Under SXM
Under SXM’s sculpture park offers an unparalleled journey through Sint Maarten’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From honoring the Taíno people and celebrating emancipation to commemorating resilience, Carnival, and the island’s unique division, each installation invites visitors to dive deeper into the essence of Sint Maarten. This adventure beneath the waves provides a unique perspective on the island’s identity, blending art, history, and nature into a breathtaking underwater experience.
Join Under SXM and immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of Sint Maarten, where every sculpture tells a story and every moment is a celebration of the island’s soul.