About Us

Vicky’s Keys stands out as the sole Eco-focused Volunteer Center providing agri-tourism and voluntarism experiences in Sint Maarten. During your stay, you engage directly in sustainable farming and community initiatives, fostering environmental awareness and deeper ties to the island.

Hundreds of visitors and many volunteers have chosen to stay with us

If you are looking for a pleasant place to stay, in a quiet suburban village away from the daily island hustle and bustle then Vicky’s Keys Volunteer Center is the place to be.

Set into the Sint Maarten country hillsides, “Vicky’s Keys” is just across the Great Pond and from sweeping ocean sands, and a 5 minute scenic drive to the quaint streets of Philipsburg.

We devote our time to upkeep our unique location which is part of the family history of more than 300 years. Being surrounded by marvellous nature, its landscape remind us everyday how fortunate we are to live in paradise.

The name “Vicky’s Keys” is a homage to the Great Grand Mother (see picture) and late Mother of the owners. Great Grand Mother Vicky was co-owner of this family pre-owned village. She actually named this village The Keys in Sucker Garden. The anekdote is that Grandma Vicky always had a bunch of keys carrying around with her, so this is why the volunteer center and hostel is called “Vicky’s Keys” and it’s located in a family pre-owned (from 18th century – 1981) village. The property still have some of its original details such as the slave walls, the black berry vine at the 17th century plantation site called Succour, fruit trees as landmarks all providing a warm atmosphere and a pleasant place to spend the night.

Vicky’s Keys rooms and dorms has been renovated and are equipped with the basic necessities. Everything to ensure that our Volunteering guests and international based volunteers enjoy their day to their own heart’s content. You are not obligated to participate in a buffet if you don’t want to. How about making your own breakfast when it suits you. No tightly plastered walls or modern furnished spaces, but everything just a little crooked: the charm of the Caribbean!

Vicky’s Keys premises is approximately 1.400m2 / 15.000 square feet. The concept is “Stay among the locals” which is popular among the Volunteering and Backpackers market. Yet we are the only one on St. Maarten to anticipate those who would like to experience staying among the locals but with an Eco twist to it.

Although we have been hit hard by hurricane Irma on 6 September 2017 mother nature has helped us to re-create our little paradise. Our 4 buildings on the property are equipped to accommodate volunteers and holiday guests.
The premises has several gardens cultivated with herbs, vegetables, fruit and fish (Aquaponics & Hydroponics system). Besides the usual luxury amenities you have the choice to experience pure Caribbean self-sufficient living.

Volunteers

International Volunteers are welcome to stay and work with us on several SDG (sustainable development goals) projects initiated by the Marlin Yard Foundation.

Current SDG projects are:

  • Reinstating the village ancient plantation site.
  • Establishing Community Gardens.
  • Establishing Community Supported Agriculture for Food Security on Sint Maarten
  • Developing The Keys Market.
  • Developing the first Green Community with Sustainable Eco Housing options.- Learn more at www.caribhousing.com

We are continuously seeking volunteers to help us recreate a piece of paradise again. Especially now that Sint Maarten has endured the disastrous hurricanes Irma, Jose and Marie in 2017. In addition the COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on the islands economy.

If you are interested to volunteer with us, then we ask you to at least stay a minimum of 2 months with us. A maximum stay is 9 months with option on extending your stay. More info on how to volunteer with us click on this link.

Volunteering Guests

Step into the world of Vicky’s Keys – Your Sustainable Voluntarism Haven, where adventure, sustainability, and good vibes collide! 🌿

Ever embarked on a journey of agri-tourism and voluntarism? Then let Vicky’s Keys be your first!

Join guided tours, dive into hands-on workshops, and be part of volunteer programs shaping our farm’s growth. Indulge in farm-to-table delights, foster community outreach, and witness our dedication to green infrastructure. Together, let’s champion a sustainable lifestyle and make a positive impact on the lively community of Sint Maarten.

Our welcoming Volunteer Center offers diverse lodging options, from cozy single beds to spacious family apartments.

Mind you: The Food we serve is Pescetarian, Vegetarian and Vegan oriented! But you are welcome to enjoy other proteins served elsewhere : ))

Currently a max of 20 persons can stay per night at our Volunteer Center lodging options. Check out our Program Arrangements a fantastic way to make the most of your free time!

Your active involvement not only helps protect the environment but also adds to the well-being of the Sint Maarten community. At Vicky’s Keys, we’re all about creating a friendly and impactful experience!

Explore our Café, Terraces, Gardens, and various dormitories. With continuous upgrades, including lush Permaculture gardens, Vicky’s Keys is always evolving.

Experience sustainability in action with eco-friendly infrastructure – from our aquaponics system with rainwater harvesting to renewable energy sources and waste reduction. At Vicky’s Keys, we’re committed to treading lightly on our beautiful planet.

After putting in your community service hours, dive into a myriad of fun activities like arts & crafts, yoga, beach-pub crawls, picnics, hikes, and tours. Explore the remnants of the Succour Plantation, catch a sunrise at Guana Bay, take a refreshing dip in a natural pool, embark on boat and snorkel trips, enjoy BBQs, Saco nights, live acoustic music events, and even join our balloon-dance contests – it’s a unique experience you won’t want to miss! Never seen a balloon-dance contest? Well, it’s your chance to shine – show us your moves or come witness the fun for yourself!

No matter your identity – heterosexual, LGBTQI, religious, non-religious, a philosopher, or a free spirit – Vicky’s Keys welcomes you. Let us guide you in discovering the beauty of Vicky’s Keys and the enchanting island of St. Maarten.

So, are you ready for an unforgettable experience? Let’s make a positive impact and create some incredible memories together. We look forward to welcoming you to our sustainable haven.

See you soon at Vicky’s Keys,

The Sustainable Living Team🌈

This picture was taken in December 2022 with the Voluntourism group Extreme Architects of the Technical Unitversity of Delft, The Netherlands.





Our facilities and values

We respect these main principles and maintain them among our friendly team.

Openness

We do not keep secrets from each other and our guests, and stay always open to you.

Integrity

Honesty and having strong moral principles plays a very important part of our friendly and eventful team routine.

Mastery

Our team is constantly rising the level of mastery by visiting various seminars.

One team

As a team we find it important to discuss various issues occurred in order to solve them. Our guests experiences are crucial to us.

Innovative

We also search for modern and up-to-date solutions of various routine problems.

Quality

All our services and products are thoroughly tested in accordance with the high quality standards.


Meet Our Team

Get to know us better by discovering personally our team members.
Cee Volunteer – General Manager

Hey there!
I’m Cee, your go-to person for all things volunteering at Vicky’s Keys and at the Marlin Yard Foundation. As the General Manager and Founder, I’m here to ensure everything runs smoothly and there are no hiccups. Think of me as the captain steering our ship, making sure all systems work seamlessly.
Beyond managing, one of my greatest passions is sharing knowledge, especially in workshops on Aquaponics, Hydroponics, Permaculture Gardening and even Modifying Shipping Containers into Tiny Homes. I’m all about helping you become more self-sufficient in your daily life. Can’t wait to share these exciting insights with you!

PienVolunteer – Interior Designer

Meet Pien, the creative force behind the aesthetics of our Volunteer Center. Pien is not just about fulfilling her duties; she pours her heart and soul into every design you see around our space. Her commitment goes beyond the conventional. From the choice of colors to the arrangement of furniture, she weaves a narrative that makes your stay at Vicky’s Keys a truly delightful and immersive experience. We’re not just a place to stay; we’re a canvas of creativity, thanks to Pien. Get ready to be captivated by the unique charm she infuses into every inch of our space!

VacancyVolunteer – Activity Coordinator

Volunteer Activity Coordinator
is the mastermind behind all the exciting and meaningful activities at Vicky’s Keys. With a passion for bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. This position ensures that your time here is not just enjoyable but also leaves a positive impact.
Whether it’s organizing workshops, community events, or unique excursions, our next colleague must be dedicated to making our guests stay at Vicky’s Keys unforgettable.

VacancyVolunteer – Front Office

This position Volunteer Front Office is also the Concierge, and Guest Relations all rolled into one. Have questions about lodging? Need assistance during your stay? Our next colleague got you covered! With a friendly smile and a wealth of knowledge, s/he’s here to ensure our guests experience at Vicky’s Keys is seamless and enjoyable.