This past weekend, Intermar—the powerhouse behind much of St. Maarten’s shipping and cargo operations—celebrated a milestone that few companies ever reach: 40 years of uninterrupted service. The event, held at Aleeze Convention Center, was nothing short of spectacular. Guests were treated to live music, heartfelt tributes, and a journey through time that highlighted not just the company’s growth, but the evolution of an entire island economy.
Founded in 1985 by George Pelgrim, Intermar began with just three employees and a vision rooted in hard work, humility, and faith in the island’s potential. Back then, the Port of St. Maarten was a very different place—barely structured, unsecured, with minimal infrastructure and limited communication channels. Incoming ships had to contact Saba Radio just to speak with the harbor master. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was the proving ground where Pelgrim’s vision took root.
Pelgrim, originally from Curaçao, arrived in St. Maarten in the late '70s, sent by the Curaçao Trading Company to assist a Japanese fishing venture known as Curaçao Pioneering (CPC). At the time, the tuna export industry was booming, with vessels from as far away as Japan, Taiwan, and Korea docking regularly. Pelgrim’s role managing logistics, accommodations, and crew support introduced him to the intricacies of the maritime world—and sparked a deeper ambition.
That ambition became Intermar.
Over the decades, Intermar has grown into a cornerstone of St. Maarten’s economy, now handling massive container vessels and operating within one of the Caribbean’s most advanced ports. From a time when only a handful of cargoes passed through local docks, Intermar helped transform St. Maarten into a major maritime gateway for the Northeastern Caribbean.
The 40th anniversary celebration was both a party and a powerful tribute. Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten, VROMI Minister Patrice Gumbs, and Port CEO Alexander Gumbs were among the many dignitaries in attendance. The night was hosted by Artemia, with entertainment from DJ Kembe and the lively Control Band. But the highlight? George Pelgrim’s personal recognition of nearly 40 employees and business partners—some of whom have stood by his side since day one.
“These people are more than staff,” Pelgrim said. “They are family. They are the reason Intermar exists today.”
Pelgrim recalled everything from the early days—when two warehouses (one belonging to Chester Wathey, the other to Eddy Buncamper) dominated the cargo scene, to the lack of security, formalized customs operations, or even consistent port communication. Yet through it all, visionaries like Claude Wathey and later Theo Heyliger pushed for progress. Their support, along with strong government collaboration, helped propel the port—and Intermar—into the modern era.
In his remarks, Pelgrim emphasized the importance of forward-thinking investment. The company is currently focused on expanding services, upgrading its mechanical fleet, and most critically, training the next generation of port professionals. Intermar’s workforce is now fully certified to operate some of the industry’s most complex machinery, like Taylor container reach stackers. In fact, Pelgrim has made it his mission to empower local youth through hands-on training that ensures continuity and resilience in the years ahead.
The company’s legacy also includes an unwavering commitment to the community. On Saturday night, Intermar donated $1,000 to the Forever Blessed Foundation and $4,000 to the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and Prins Willem Alexander School—funding a full year of student breakfast programs.
Perhaps most inspiring is Intermar’s resilience through crisis. When Hurricane Irma hit in 2017, it devastated the port and severely damaged Intermar’s infrastructure, including the ICC Cargo Building. But instead of folding, the company rebuilt, stronger and smarter. Demand surged during recovery, and Intermar rose to meet it—solidifying its role not just as a business, but as a lifeline.
Today, the company operates three major divisions: Intermar itself, I.C.C. Cargo (formerly Carib Corp NV), and SC Maritime Services, which handles cruise line operations. Together, they reflect a diversified, future-ready enterprise with its feet firmly planted in the past and its eyes set firmly on the horizon.
As George Pelgrim stood before the crowd—flanked by his wife Hélène, government officials, and longtime colleagues—it was clear that Intermar’s success isn’t just measured in containers moved or years logged. It’s measured in relationships, reputation, and the unshakable belief that doing things right still matters.
Forty years strong, and just getting started.
