Stray animals: an issue left to the charities
The third edition of the “World Stray Animal Sunset Sail” will take place on Saturday 4 April. Organised by Aqua Mania Adventures, this sunset sailing cruise aims to raise funds for local charities working to promote animal welfare.
The presence of stray animals is a problem affecting both parts of the island, caused by the negligence of irresponsible owners. Only the charities are tackling the problem head-on. Their volunteers work all year round to rescue and care for the animals. On the Dutch side, four organisations are trying to find solutions to curb their proliferation, notably through neutering and adoption.
Volunteers on the front line
The St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation has been organising major neutering campaigns for several years and has helped fund over 15,000 operations, thereby tackling the main cause of animal overpopulation. Alongside it, SXM Paws runs rescue and adoption programmes, provides medical care and finds homes for rescued animals. With its adoption centre and network of volunteers, the organisation has given countless animals a second chance.
More recently, the Island Cat Rescue Foundation, established in 2024, has tackled the growing problem of the stray and feral cat population. Through its ‘Trap, Neuter, Release’ programme, the organisation works to reduce the cat population whilst rescuing kittens that can be socialised and placed in foster care until they are adopted. Finally, Animal Defenders, a network of volunteers known for assisting animals in distress across the island, provides emergency assistance, temporary shelter, access to adequate food and necessary veterinary care.
A cruise to raise funds
The World Stray Animal Sunset Sail is a way for the public to support these organisations whilst enjoying a sunset cruise. Participants are to meet at 3.30 pm at the Simpson Bay Resort to meet volunteers from the various organisations and learn about their work before boarding the Aqua Mania Adventures catamaran at 5.15 pm for a one-and-a-half-hour cruise along the coast of Saint Martin (returning at 7 pm).
The $50 participation fee, which includes welcome drinks, a snack and drinks on board, will help raise funds to continue the organisations’ work, particularly animal neutering. It is also possible to support these organisations without taking part in the cruise by donating food, volunteering your time, becoming a foster family, sponsoring sterilisation procedures, or helping to transport adopted animals to their new homes off the island.
Booking: www.stmaarten-activities.com/tours/world-stray-animal-day
