WILLEMSTAD — Curaçao is exploring the Dok–Buskabaai area as a core location for the renewal and diversification of its maritime sector. Under the coordination of the Curaçao Maritime Association (CMAR), a public-private partnership has been launched in which government entities, port companies, and private stakeholders are jointly assessing redevelopment opportunities aimed at economic diversification and a future-proof revenue model.
The exploration focuses on transforming the former asphalt lake and Buskabaai area into an integrated maritime, industrial, and circular ecosystem. With this approach, Curaçao aims to build on its long-standing tradition in ship repair and port activities, as the sector moves toward celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2026.
Programmatische Maritieme Tafel
A key element of the initiative is the establishment of the Programmatische Maritieme Tafel (PMT), a collaboration platform designed to prevent fragmentation and align public and private efforts. Through the PMT, partners work together on permitting processes, infrastructure development, investment planning, and the clustering of port-related and maritime activities.
Participants in the platform include the Curaçao Ports Authority, CDM Holding, Buskabaai N.V., 2Bays N.V., Blue Harbour City, and members of the CMAR.
Broad mix of activities
Within the ongoing assessment, stakeholders are examining a broad mix of potential activities for the Dok–Buskabaai zone, including heavy ship repair, logistics and trade, circular industry, environmental technology, and maritime innovation. One of the options under consideration is reopening Buskabaai to the open sea, which could improve water circulation and ecological quality while also increasing operational port capacity.
International standards and MARPOL
International environmental regulations are also a central factor in the plans. Curaçao is working toward full compliance with the MARPOL Convention, including facilities for the processing of waste oil and bilge water. Compliance with these standards is expected to strengthen Curaçao’s international reputation as a reliable and responsible maritime hub and to create additional opportunities for growth in ship repair and port-related industries.
According to the initiators, this integrated and coordinated approach lays the foundation for new international partnerships, knowledge exchange, and investment, including access to European and Dutch financing instruments. With the current exploration phase, the maritime sector aims to demonstrate that the upcoming centennial of ship repair in Curaçao is not only a moment of reflection, but also the starting point of a new chapter for the island’s maritime economy.