Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten — May 30, 2025
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club is honored to announce that its Commodore, Dr. Frits Bus, MD, has been knighted in the Order of Oranje-Nassau—a royal recognition awarded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands for exceptional service to society. This prestigious distinction acknowledges Dr. Bus’s lifelong dedication to medicine, community health, youth development, and sports leadership on Sint Maarten and beyond.

Dr. Bus has served as Commodore of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club since 2022, bringing dynamic leadership, vision, and enthusiasm to the role. Beyond his administrative contributions, he is a highly skilled and active ILCA and Melges 24 sailor, proudly representing the Club in nearly every local regatta and event. His presence on the water and onshore exemplifies his passion for sailing and his commitment to fostering a strong, inclusive sailing community.

With over 44 years of service as a family physician, Dr. Bus has championed a patient-centered, holistic approach to healthcare. As the founder of both Great Bay Medical Clinic and Green Meds SXM, he has been a pioneer in integrative medicine and preventive care. From delivering babies and leading health workshops to running school-based obesity prevention programs and providing free health screenings, Dr. Bus’s commitment to community wellness is unmatched. He has also provided critical support during disasters, including coordinating medical response teams after hurricanes and participating in relief efforts in Haiti following its devastating earthquake.

Beyond the medical field, Dr. Bus has been a driving force in promoting sports and healthy lifestyles across the island. He co-founded Sint Maarten’s first tennis club in 1985, helped establish the Antillean Tennis Federation, and organized the Caribbean Laser Sailing Championships for over 20 years—bolstering regional maritime sports and the island’s sailing legacy.

His contributions span across triathlon, running, and swimming. He co-founded the Sint Maarten Road Runners Association, the Friendly Island Triathlon Association (FITA), and the Friendly Island Aquatic Club having serving on the boards of all. As an athlete, he has represented Sint Maarten in sailing, marathons, triathlons, and windsurfing on the international stage, always proudly promoting his island and inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams through dedication and sponsorship.

“We are very proud of our Commodore Dr. Bus and this well-earned recognition,” said Saskia Revelman, Manager of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club. “His impact on Sint Maarten reaches far beyond the docks and clinics—he embodies the spirit of service and leadership our island values deeply.”
