Willem
Did you know Sint Maarten – Saint Martin has some unique diving sites to explore. If you like to visit the underwater-world check out Dive Sint Maarten in Philipsburg.
Owner Willem Dekker is a retired Dutch Marine that has lived in the Caribbean for over 40 years. As a marine he was stationed in the Caribbean but soon decided he never wanted to leave. After his carreer as a Marine he owned and operated the radio station Dolfijn FM in Curacao for many years, before moving to SXM 23 years ago.
Willem has a passion for horses and so started at Lucky Stables and the bay side riding club (now Seaside Nature Park). He also operated as a Boat captain for parasailing and Octopus diving in Philipsburg before deciding to take over the dive company
Under a new name “Dive Sint Maarten”, Willem and his team took the challenge upon themselves to become one of islands finest Dive centers. Operating from Philipsburg they take people on Diving excursions at many of the great dive sites in SXM. They are also certified for diving or refreshment courses to teach you everything from A to Z to go in the water safe and secure.
Dagmar
Dagmar (26) started her dive adventures with us in 2023 with getting her Open Water certification. After getting certified, she immediately knew this was where she belongs.
After only visiting the island of Sint Maarten for short periods of time, she decided it was time to come here for longer and get to a pro level. In March 2024 she got certified as a Dive Master, but that wasn’t enough for her.
In June 2024 she decided it was time to become an instructor. And guess what? She nailed the instructor exams and is now one of our PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors!
You can find her in the office on the main land and of course, in the underwater office as well!
In her off time she enjoys to have good food, read books and play some sports.
Nick
Nick is the youngster of our team, he came on our path by sailing the Caribbean and landed in St Maarten.
Captain Willem and the warm-hearted Dive Sint Maarten Team embraced him as one of their own. Here, amidst the vibrant colors and island breeze, Nick’s story began anew. From struggling with amnesia to mastering a new language, his journey was a testament to hope and new beginnings.
Today, Nick is a beloved Captain & Dive Master of Dive Sint Maarten, sharing tales of resilience and adventure. His story reminds us that no matter where we start, we can always find a place to call home.
