Monthly Archives: June 2025

Fuel bunkering is one of the most important operational needs for any yacht traveling through the Caribbean. Whether preparing for a long offshore passage or keeping to a busy charter schedule, having access to reliable, high-capacity fueling is essential. Located in Simpson Bay Lagoon, Palapa Marina in St. Maarten offers one of the most efficient and well-managed fuel bunkering services in the region, backed by a full range of marina services and expert yacht support.

Palapa Marina is a purpose-built mooring marina that caters to both sailing yachts and mega yachts, with berthing for vessels ranging from 65 to 250 feet and a maximum draft of 17 feet. With direct fuel access at every berth and a dedicated team on-site, this St. Maarten marina is a top destination for vessels seeking fast, clean, and professional fuel bunkering.

Direct-to-berth fuel bunkering for maximum efficiency

What sets Palapa Marina apart is the convenience of its fuel bunkering system. Each slip is equipped with its own fuel station, allowing vessels to refuel directly from their berth. There is no need to relocate to a separate fuel dock, which simplifies the process and saves time for captains and crews. This setup is especially valuable for larger yachts and charter vessels that require fast turnarounds and minimal downtime.

Fuel types and their importance in bunkering operations

Yacht Fuel bunkering isn’t just about volume, it’s also about the right type of fuel. The two most common marine fuels used in bunkering operations are marine diesel oil (MDO) and ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). These fuels are essential for powering the wide range of engines found on modern yachts, from high-performance sport yachts to long-range motor vessels.

Marine Diesel Oil (MDO): Often used in larger engines and generators, MDO offers the energy density needed for long voyages and heavier vessels. It’s commonly used in commercial shipping but is also applicable for mega yachts, depending on engine design.

Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD): Required by international emissions regulations such as IMO 2020, ULSD has significantly lower sulfur content, making it cleaner for the environment and compatible with the advanced exhaust treatment systems found on many newer yachts. ULSD is increasingly the preferred choice for yachts seeking to reduce emissions and meet compliance standards.

Aviation petrol and jet Skis: Jet skis such as Sea-Doo and Yamaha models generally operate on regular unleaded petrol (87 octane) and can use E10 (10% ethanol), though E10 burns faster and should not be stored for long periods due to its tendency to attract moisture; in contrast, Kawasaki jet skis require at least 95-octane premium unleaded for non-supercharged models and 98-octane for supercharged models, and E10 is not recommended for these engines. For aviation and helicopters, turbine engines use kerosene-based Jet A or Jet A-1 fuel, while piston-engine aircraft require aviation gasoline (avgas) in specific octane grades to match manufacturer requirements.

Palapa Marina ensures access to clean, high-quality diesel fuel suitable for modern yacht systems. Fuel deliveries are managed with care to prevent contamination and to meet the specific needs of each vessel. For yachts with fuel cleaning & polishing or filtration requirements, Palapa staff can help coordinate external services or facilitate access to third-party fuel treatment providers.

The availability of the right yacht fuel, in the right quantity, and delivered safely is what makes Palapa Marina a trusted hub for fuel bunkering in the Caribbean.

Integrated marina services for seamless operations

Fuel bunkering at Palapa Marina is part of a broader package of professional marina services designed to make yacht operations smooth and reliable. Vessels docking at Palapa have access to a complete range of amenities, including potable water, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shore power connections in  220V, 380V, and 440V, with both single and three-phase options at 60Hz.

The marina also offers a waste oil disposal station, making it easy to manage yacht engine oil changes and environmental compliance. Yacht crews can coordinate oil pump-outs or drop-offs directly with marina management.

Technical yacht support on-site

In addition to yacht fuel bunkering and essential services, Palapa Marina provides access to professional yacht support. On the premises, Palapa Shipwright delivers expert marine woodwork and structural repair, while Permafrost handles yacht electrical systems, air conditioning repairs, and marine parts sourcing. This immediate access to technical services makes the marina an ideal stop for maintenance, troubleshooting, and provisioning, all in one location.

For yachts traveling on tight schedules or operating commercial charters, having skilled marine technicians within walking distance can make all the difference.

Prime location in the Caribbean

Palapa Marina is located in Simpson Bay Lagoon, a naturally sheltered harbor on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. It offers easy access to Princess Juliana International Airport, as well as nearby beaches, shopping centres, dining, and casinos. The central location and relaxed, professional atmosphere make it a strategic choice for both short-term stops and long-term berthing.

This St. Maarten marina is a preferred destination for yachts crossing the Atlantic, wintering in the Caribbean, or moving between regional hubs like Antigua, St. Barths, and the Virgin Islands.

Why choose Palapa Marina for fuel bunkering

Palapa Marina offers a rare combination of convenience, technical support, and efficient fueling infrastructure. Captains, owners and yacht managers choose Palapa because it simplifies logistics and provides trusted support at every step. With yacht fuel access at every berth, experienced staff, and a full suite of marina services, it is one of the most capable and reliable mooring marinas in the Caribbean.

Whether you’re managing a private yacht or a commercial fleet, Palapa Marina in St. Maarten is the smart choice for professional fuel bunkering and dependable yacht support.