Come experience firsthand what has made this St. Maarten's #1 ranked excursion on TripAdvisor for the last 10 years running and the absolute best way to avoid the cruise ship crowds and visit both the Dutch and French sides of the island in a family friendly, small group setting. From the moment you hop aboard our deluxe speed boat and venture out to sea you'll realize that your vacation has only just begun. Highlights of the 5 stop, 6 hour tour include unforgettable snorkeling with sea turtles, sting rays and tropical fish on uninhabited islands, sunbathing on some of the finest white sand beaches the Caribbean has to offer and feeling the rush of commercial jets landing directly over your head at the famous airport. All the while your captain and guide will make sure that you are not only educated and entertained but also well-tended to with food and drinks on the boat, all included in the price. So what are you waiting for? Let's get out on the water!
Captain Bob's most popular speed boat, snorkeling and beach tour is a full day, 5 stop adventure of a lifetime that is uniquely designed to show you the very best of both the French and Dutch sides of Sint Maarten/St. Martin.
Departing from Philipsburg, you'll first head past the islands of Saba, Statia and St. Barts before passing under the bridge into Simpson Bay Lagoon, the biggest lagoon in the Caribbean. While sightseeing in the lagoon you will be taken aback by the size of the million dollar "mega yachts" of the rich and famous that frequent the island in the wintertime. After officially crossing onto the French side of the island you will make your way around Marigot, Happy Bay, Friar's Bay and finally Grand Case.
Your first stop is the island of Tintamarre, an uninhabited island within the French Nature Reserve that is only accessible by boat and where large groups are forbidden, a great way to escape the cruise ship crowds. Here your knowledgable captain will give you a brief tutorial, provide you with snorkel gear and flotation devices and send you off to snorkel with the protected sea turtles and stingrays that reside there.
From there it's on to Pinel Island- a breathtaking place that boasts calm, waist-deep waters and swaying palm trees. It's the ultimate spot to unwind and relax with a drink in your hand and your feet in the soft sand. A delicious lunch will be served at Pinel, all included in the price. Before leaving don't forget to check out the boutique for souvenirs/gifts and say hello to the friendly local iguanas!
Next it's off to Creole Rock for another snorkel stop but this time at a vibrant coral reef with some of the most colorful fish and marine life in all of the Caribbean. Once everyone is safely back on board, you'll continue around the Northern side of island passing Baie Rouge, Plum Bay and the rest of Terres Basses, the most expensive zip code on the island.
Enjoy one last dip in paradise at either Long Bay or Mullet Bay- both universally recognized as some of the top beaches in the world. This is your last chance to grab "a noodle and a beer" and float around in the stunning turquoise waters while jamming to some of your favorite tunes. Drinks are complimentary all day long!
Last but not least, make one last stop at the famous Princess Juliana International Airport to experience the thrill of the commercial jets taking off and landing directly over your head. You'll be sad to see the day end as we drop you back off at the dock but a free ice cream for your walk back to your cruise ship or hotel will have you smiling again in no time.
Departure Point: Departs from Dock Maarten Marina (Chesterfields Restaurant) for cruise ship visitors and hotel guests. It is a short (10-15 minute), safe walk from the cruise ship terminal.
Directions:
FOR CRUISE SHIP VISITORS: Exit the cruise ship facility through the main gate to the street. Make a left turn onto the main road and follow the sidewalk under the palm trees. A short distance along this road you will see the first commercial complex of yellow buildings on your left. This is Dock Maarten Marina. There is also a restaurant called Chesterfields in the complex. Walk through the main underpass of the complex and onto the marina dock. Ask for Captain Bob.
FOR HOTEL GUESTS: Dock Maarten Marina is located in Point Blanche, near the port and the cruise ship terminal. At most intersections and roundabouts there are green or white signs with directions. Follow the signs to the "Cruise Ship Terminal". Dock Maarten Marina is on the main road just before the cruise ship terminal. There is also a restaurant called Chesterfields at the marina. There is parking available at the marina. Walk through the main underpass of the complex and onto the marina dock. Ask for Captain Bob.
Return point: Returns to original point of departure (Dock Maarten Marina)
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made. WE CAN ACCOMMODATE LATE SHIP ARRIVALS
• IMPORTANT: Departure time is listed in St Maarten local time, not cruise ship time. Please check well in advance with your cruise ship to know the difference, if any, between St Maarten local time and cruise ship time. St Maarten observes Atlantic Standard Time (AST) all year.
•Please notify us if you are traveling with another party that is booked under a separate reservation so that we can ensure you will be on the same boat together
• It is recommended to bring towels, sunscreen, hats and bathing suits
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Refunds WILL be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
• Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
• In order to ensure your safety and comfort, the captain may use his/her discretion to make adjustments to the itinerary and locations visited
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
• Please advise of any health issues or handicaps at time of booking if required
Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
Sint Maarten is a unique destination that offers the best of two cultures and landscapes. The island is divided between the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin), each offering distinct experiences. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options, it's a tropical paradise that caters to a wide range of travelers.
Famous for its close proximity to the airport runway, where planes fly extremely low. A must-see for thrill-seekers.
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, known for its white sand and clear waters. Ideal for water sports and relaxation.
The capital of Sint Maarten, known for its colorful Dutch architecture, duty-free shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
Fried fritters made from conch meat, a local delicacy.
Fried dough bread, often served with butter or jam.
A hearty soup made with chicken, dumplings, and vegetables.
This is the peak tourist season with the best weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
Netherlands Antillean Guilder (Sint Maarten) / Euro (Saint Martin) (ANG / EUR)
GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time)
110V (Dutch side) / 220V (French side)V, 60Hz (Dutch side) / 50Hz (French side)Hz
Sint Maarten is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Buses are affordable but infrequent and can be crowded. They are a good option for budget travelers.
Available • Apps: Local taxi services, no Uber or Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
A nearby island known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and high-end dining. A great escape for a day of relaxation and exploration.
A small, historic island with a rich colonial past. Known for its well-preserved ruins, diving spots, and laid-back atmosphere.
A small, uninhabited island with beautiful beaches and clear waters. Perfect for a day of snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking.
Price varies by option