Sint Maarten

Behind the Scenes in St. Maarten: IMM SXM 2024–2025 Project Highlights

The 2024–2025 Caribbean yachting season is winding down, and what a season it has been for the St. Maarten-based IMM team! Operating across marinas including Isle de Sol, Dock Maarten, Palapa, Skyport, Port De Plaisance, Simpson Bay Marina & Fort Louis, the IMM SXM team tackled dozens of projects—some time-sensitive, some instrumental in allowing guest trips to start with no delay, and some involving planned maintenance works.

From full generator rebuilds to shaft alignments, from structural composite repairs to yacht-quality paintwork, the scope, diversity and complexity of this season’s work highlights IMM’s value: our expert, local project managers allow you to undertake any project with confidence as they deliver top-quality results by any standard.    

A Season of Engineering and Execution

Several multi-week projects stood out for several reasons. These were planned maintenance stops with technical complexity and delivered on time. One project involved a full rebuild of twin generators on a 100+-meter vessel. IMM collaborated with the visiting MTU technical team providing all logistics support, including designing lifting frames so effective that the yacht chose to keep an extra set onboard for future use.

“These works had been done before, and the vessel discarded those old frames to keep the new ones. It was a feather in our cap to create something superior to a European shipyard here in Sint Maarten.” says Stephen De Vooght, IMM Project Manager.

The project also included over 800 square meters of protection, covering interior floors, bulkheads, and staircases to preserve the vessel’s condition throughout.

“This was a huge job, and the result left a lasting impression.” – Stephen De Vooght

Rapid Response & Technicity

Some of the most rewarding work came from tackling unplanned emergencies between charters. One vessel came in with a list of 28 work requests. IMM delivered 20 of those on a tight schedule, including HVAC, carpentry, speaker installation, electronics repairs, and main engine alignment.

When traditional alignment methods didn’t solve the vibration issues, IMM encouraged FKG Marine, our sister Company, to invest in laser shaft alignment technology, which proved to be the key.

“This was a turning point. We saw an opportunity not only to solve the vessel’s problem but to introduce a service that would benefit the whole island. It was the right call— the vessel’s port engine required extensive realignment that likely prevented another failure.” says Stephen.

In another urgent case, the entire steering system of a vessel failed electronically while in Antigua. IMM coordinated repairs and sent a technician to restore full function in time for departure.

“Our subcontractor tested, diagnosed, and solved the issue under pressure. We left them with a working system and a spare circuit board onboard—exactly what they needed to feel secure continuing their program.” – Stephen

Precision Under Pressure

Throughout the season, IMM led heavy-lift technical operations requiring mechanical dismantling, crane coordination, and tight turnaround times.

One yacht required removal and replacement of a 450kg alternator, a project that required the dismantling of fire insulation, engine exhausts, and then reassembly of all components.

“The biggest challenge was the coordination. We had to plan every step around crane movements and internal systems to avoid delay. We delivered on time and to the full satisfaction of the client.” says Dominique.

Another vessel, known for its hybrid propulsion, needed a 400kg generator replaced in partnership with a renowned European shipyard.

“The collaboration with the shipyard and crew was exceptional, we took care of protection, crane work, and overall logistics, and everyone was pleased with how smoothly it went.” – Dominique adds.

Even collision damage didn’t stop IMM from meeting deadlines. A chase boat required structural composite repair and repainting within 10 days to meet its next charter obligation. This project demanded full focus—tight timing, project management, and hands-on execution. But the IMM Team delivered, and the vessel was ready on time.