On Caribbean Togetherness – An Interview with Roneice Williamson (Salty Seafood)
The Story of Your Seafood Platter
Over half of St. Maarten / St. Martin islanders are either directly or indirectly involved in creating a great visitor experience. So is new Salty Seafood account manager Roneice (“Ro”) Williamson. Salty Seafood imports and distributes, among other things, shrimp, salmon, and tuna to restaurants, resorts, supermarkets, and yachts.
Williamson: “I was born and raised on the beautiful island of St. Martin, and what drives me most is my passion for connecting people, creating experiences, and contributing to the tourism industry that plays such an important role in our island’s economy.”
It is a passion that drives her in her daily work. “As an Account Manager at Salty Seafood, I love building strong relationships within the HORECA (hotels, restaurants, cafés) industry. I have the opportunity to work closely with chefs, restaurant owners, and hospitality professionals across the island.”
It is a process that starts well before a dish is served to the customer. “Most people experience seafood simply by sitting at a table and enjoying a great meal, but through my role I get to see the process that happens before it reaches the plate—from working with restaurants to making sure they receive the quality products they need. It’s very rewarding to know that the relationships we build and the service we provide help restaurants create memorable dining experiences for both locals and visitors on the island.”
The drive came naturally and stems from long ago. “I’ve always been surrounded by different cultures, visitors from around the world, and the vibrant energy that tourism brings. That environment naturally sparked my interest in hospitality, service, and entrepreneurship.”
It is an ongoing passion. “What motivates me every day is the opportunity to grow, learn, and create opportunities—not only for myself but also for the community around me. I truly believe tourism is about people, connection, and leaving a lasting positive impression of our island.”
Island Girl Insider Views
She is a Sint Maarten native, born and raised. She knows the island inside out.
“One of my fondest memories growing up on St. Maarten was going to the bumper cars that used to be located across from what is now the Kimsha Strip in Simpson Bay. It was always such a fun place to go with friends and family. We would spend time laughing, bumping into each other, and just enjoying the moment. Looking back, it represents a very joyful and simple part of island life that many of us remember.”
She understands why the island has developed so many returning visitors over time. “One of the core qualities of St. Maarten / St. Martin is its cultural diversity. Despite being a small island, it brings together people from many different backgrounds, languages, and traditions, creating a truly vibrant and unique community.”
A cultural mosaic that welcomed her family too, making her experience inclusion firsthand. “My dad and mom both moved from Jamaica to St. Maarten about 25 years ago, and their journey has always inspired me. Watching them build a life here through hard work, resilience, and determination has taught me the importance of perseverance, staying focused on your goals, and never giving up. Their strength and dedication continue to motivate me in both my personal and professional life.”
In her eyes, the people and the sense of community are a core asset of the island. “Despite being a small island, it feels incredibly diverse and welcoming. There is a strong spirit of resilience and hospitality here, and it’s something you feel both as a resident and as a visitor.”
The community is a layer not always visible to the visitors she serves. “St. Maarten is filled with talented and hardworking individuals. Many local entrepreneurs and small business owners deserve more attention for the work they do every day to contribute to the island’s culture, economy, and tourism experience. From restaurant owners to artists and tour operators, these individuals help shape the vibrant spirit of St. Maarten and play a big role in making visitors feel welcomed.”
In addition, Ro sees how many people visit St. Maarten for the beaches but do not immediately realize how rich the island is in local talent and creativity. “We have so many talented artists, musicians, and creatives who contribute to the culture and identity of the island. From music and art to festivals and local businesses, there is a vibrant creative community that many visitors don’t always get the chance to fully experience.”
The variety of people also leads to a variety of dishes Salty Seafood needs to cater to—and the dishes their deliveries result in. “The cultural diversity is reflected in everything from the variety of cuisines and music to the festivals and daily interactions between locals and visitors. It’s a place where cultures blend naturally and where people from all over the world can feel welcomed. That sense of openness, warmth, and togetherness is what truly defines St. Maarten / St. Martin, both as a destination and as a society. It’s part of what makes the island such a special place to live and visit.”
Carnival as the Climax of Togetherness
That warmth and togetherness is something she experiences yearly at the St. Maarten Carnival. “While many people see it as just a celebration, it is deeply rooted in the island’s history, culture, and identity. The first official Carnival on St. Maarten was held in 1970, and since then it has grown into one of the island’s most vibrant and anticipated cultural events. The season usually begins in April, leading up to the grand parades and main events that bring the island to life with music, colorful costumes, and lively celebrations.
What makes Carnival especially meaningful is the sense of togetherness and love that revelers experience. People from all walks of life come together to celebrate, dance, and share in the joy of the moment as one community. For me, it’s a beautiful reflection of the island’s vibrant culture, heritage, and unity.”
Carnival aligns with her personal passions too. “I enjoy music and writing. While most people know me through my work, creativity has always been an important part of my life. I enjoy expressing myself through music and writing during my personal time. It allows me to reflect, be imaginative, and sometimes put my thoughts and experiences into words. It’s a side of me that not everyone gets to see, but it’s definitely a passion that I value and enjoy”.
Long Days on Three Beaches
When off, Ro is fond of beaches—not just for swimming, but also for the many great venues around them.
For relaxation, she chooses Simpson Bay Beach. “I enjoy the long stretch of sand and the peaceful atmosphere, especially during quieter moments of the day. It’s a great place to walk along the shoreline, enjoy the ocean breeze, and simply take in the beauty of the island.”
That beach day off might continue into the night, as it is also her favorite evening spot. “What makes this area so special to me is the vibrant energy and the variety of things happening all along the route. From Kimsha Beach straight down to the Soggy Dollar in Maho, there is so much nightlife, entertainment, and great places to dine. Whether you’re driving through the strip or just taking a quick stroll, there’s always something happening—live music, restaurants, bars, and people enjoying the island atmosphere. It’s one of those areas where you can really feel the lively spirit of St. Maarten, where both locals and visitors come together to enjoy the night, great food, and good company.”
If it is holiday time, she might even stay at Simpson Bay Resort. “It’s a beautiful location right by the water and offers a relaxing atmosphere while still being close to many restaurants, beaches, and activities in the Simpson Bay area. What I also enjoy is that there are many water activities nearby, which makes the experience even more exciting. For example, you can easily join the Lambada Sunset Sail with Aqua Mania, which is a great way to enjoy the coastline, the sunset, and the island’s beautiful waters.”
Another, totally different beach on St. Maarten that is very dear to her is Guana Bay Beach. “While it feels more private and secluded compared to many of the island’s other beaches, that’s exactly what makes it so special.”
What she loves about Guana Bay is the peaceful atmosphere and the feeling of being slightly removed from the busier areas of the island. “The open coastline, the sound of the waves, and the natural beauty of the area make it a perfect place to relax and reflect. It’s one of those places that feels like a quiet escape—which is why it’s almost the kind of spot you want to keep as your own little island secret… though I guess now the secret is out.” She laughs.
Mullet Bay Beach would also be one of her top beaches. “What makes Mullet Bay special to me is not only the wide stretch of soft sand and clear turquoise water, but also the great atmosphere around it. It’s a beach where you can truly relax, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Another thing I enjoy is that there are many great restaurants and places to eat nearby. After spending time at the beach, you can easily grab a good meal or a sweet treat while enjoying the lively, vibrant atmosphere.”
And where would that be? “I would definitely recommend nearby JAX Steakhouse to anyone visiting St. Maarten. It’s a great restaurant known for its high-quality steaks, excellent service, and elegant atmosphere. What makes JAX stand out is the attention to detail in both the food and the overall dining experience. The menu offers a great selection, and the quality of the ingredients really shines through in every dish. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a memorable meal, whether you’re celebrating something special or simply looking for a great dining experience on the island.”
At the end of the day, you might find her sipping an Espresso Martini at Lagoonies. “I enjoy the balance of the rich coffee flavor with the smoothness of the cocktail—it’s the perfect mix of bold and refreshing. Lagoonies also has a great atmosphere by the water, which makes the experience even better.”
For clothing, she goes to the West Indies Mall in Marigot. “It’s a great place for visitors who enjoy exploring stylish boutiques and finding unique pieces while visiting the island. What makes it special is that it’s located in the heart of Marigot, where visitors can combine shopping with enjoying the local cafés, restaurants, and the beautiful waterfront. It’s a nice way to experience both fashion and the charming atmosphere of the French side of the island.”
Advised Activities
Back to the visitor—what other pastimes are there to enjoy on the island beyond the menu and the beach, according to Ro?
“One activity that should definitely be part of any visit to St. Maarten is taking a trip to Pinel Island. It’s a simple but memorable experience that really captures the relaxed Caribbean lifestyle.”
It is not just about the island itself—but also about getting there. “The short boat ride across the calm water already feels like a little adventure, and once you arrive, you’re welcomed by beautiful views, soft sand, and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect place to spend the day swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Another great part of visiting Pinel Island is the opportunity to enjoy delicious meals right on the beach—especially fresh seafood—while taking in the view. With the later return boat times, visitors can truly take their time, unwind, and enjoy the day without feeling rushed.”
When it comes to island monuments, she would include Fort Amsterdam on the itinerary. “Fort Amsterdam was built in 1631 by the Dutch and played a key role in protecting the island and its harbor during colonial times. Visiting the fort allows guests to step back in time and learn about the early history of the island and the different influences that helped shape the St. Maarten they now visit.”
