1-Hour Jet Ski Tour: Single or Double Option

Discover the waters of St. Maarten on a 1-hour jet ski tour — a lively way to see the island’s coastlines, beaches, and even the famous Maho airport. This tour, priced at $180 per person, lets you zip around the Low Lands of the island, including Nettle Bay, Red Bay, Plum Bay, Long Bay, and Mullet Bay. The best part? Each jet ski can carry one or two riders, and no boat license is needed, making it accessible for pretty much anyone with a moderate level of physical fitness.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized experience guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides who, according to reviews, go out of their way to make the journey fun and informative. Second, the opportunity to stop, swim, and take pictures along the way, turning a simple ride into a genuinely memorable adventure.

A potential consideration: The location listed on some websites might be outdated. One reviewer pointed out that the activity is now based at Simpson Bay Marina, so it’s wise to verify the meeting point before your trip.

This tour is perfect for active travelers, water sports enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a quick, exhilarating way to see the island’s coastline without any complicated arrangements. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of adventure, scenic views, and a touch of local flavor, this jet ski ride could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Accessible for most — no boat license required.
• Personalized guidance — friendly guides who enhance the experience.
• Flexible for couples or friends — each jet ski accommodates one or two riders.
• Stops for photos and swimming — opportunities to relax and enjoy the water.
• Short but memorable — a 1-hour tour covering key scenic spots.
• Booking in advance — average reservation time is 27 days ahead, ensuring you secure your spot.

Exploring the St. Maarten Jet Ski Experience

Starting Point and Itinerary Overview
Your adventure begins at 127 Welfare Rd, Simpson Bay, a spot that has recently been confirmed as the current meeting place. From here, the guide will lead you into the lagoon, a calm area perfect for beginners or those new to jet skiing. You’ll pass under the causeway bridges, which is a fun photo op and an exciting way to start the ride. Once through, you’ll head out into the open ocean, traveling around the Low Lands, with stops at notable beaches like Nettle Bay, Red Bay, and Plum Bay, and even past the lively Maho Airport, famous for its low-flying planes.

The Highlights of the Tour
The main draw is the chance to navigate the waters around St. Maarten with a guide who points out local sights and ensures safety. As some reviews mention, guides like Chris or Roxxy are praised for their friendly, helpful attitude. The ability to stop for photos or to swim makes this more than just a quick ride — it’s an opportunity to breathe in the scenery and enjoy the Caribbean waters firsthand.

What to Expect During the Ride
The tour lasts about an hour, during which you’ll cover some of the island’s most beautiful coastal areas. The route includes passing under the bridges, cruising past beaches, and circling around the island’s Low Lands. The experience is lively and active, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and adventure. You’ll also get the chance to learn about the island from your guide — one reviewer noted that their guide shared interesting local tidbits while jumping waves and having fun.

Safety and Group Size
Each jet ski can carry one or two riders, and the activity is limited to four jet skis departing simultaneously, so at most 8 people can be on the water at the same time. This small group size ensures a more personalized, less hectic experience. Plus, no license is necessary, which is great for first-timers or casual water sports enthusiasts.

What Travelers Are Saying
Many reviews highlight the skill of the guides. One reviewer said, “Chris was a great guide. Fun, fun, fun I say, book your jet skiing experience with Chris today!” Another appreciated the instructor’s clear instructions and friendly manner. The experience is often described as “the most fun I had in Sint Maarten,” and many mention the thrill of jumping waves and feeling the wind as they zip past beaches.

Pricing and Value
At $180 per person, this tour offers a quick but intense glimpse of the island’s waters. Considering the personalized guidance, stops, and the chance to see multiple beaches, it’s a good value for active travelers seeking more than just a sightseeing boat tour. The fact that you don’t need a license adds to the appeal, making it accessible for almost anyone with a sense of adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Simpson Bay — The adventure begins at the current confirmed location, Simpson Bay Marina, which is easily accessible from public transportation, making it convenient to join your tour without fuss.

Lagoon and Causeway Passage — The first part of your ride takes you into the lagoon, a calm, sheltered area perfect for beginners. Passing under the causeway bridges is a highlight, offering a sense of leaving the town behind and heading into open water.

Out into the Open Ocean — After the lagoon, you’ll motor through the French bridge of Sandy Ground, accessing the ocean. This transition is exciting as you move from calm waters to more dynamic, wave-active areas.

Exploring the Low Lands — The main part of your tour involves circling the Low Lands, including Nettle Bay, Red Bay, Plum Bay, Long Bay, and Mullet Bay. Each beach has its own character: some are perfect for relaxing, others for swimming or taking photos.

Passing Maho Airport — One of the most famous sights is the jet blast from planes landing at Maho Airport, which many find thrilling to watch while riding close to the runway. This spot is often highlighted in reviews as a fun, unique experience.

Stops for Relaxation — The tour isn’t just about speed. You’ll have breaks to stop, relax, take pictures, or swim in the turquoise waters — a real perk for those who like more than just fast rides.

Return to Starting Point — After roughly an hour of adventure, your guide will bring you back to Simpson Bay Marina, ending where you started. The small group size ensures a friendly wrap-up, with time to chat about the highlights.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler shared, “This was the most fun I had in Sint Maarten. The instructor was very friendly and went over the rules perfectly. We went from the Dutch side of the island to the French side,” highlighting how the tour offers a quick but comprehensive look at the island’s different sides.

Another review noted, “First time riding a jet ski in the water and it was an awesome experience,” emphasizing how accessible and enjoyable this activity can be, even for beginners. The friendliness of guides like Chris and Roxxy is a recurring theme, with many mentioning that their guides made the experience safe and fun.

Practical Tips for Your Jet Ski Adventure

• Book in advance — bookings are often made about 27 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Verify the meeting point — recent feedback suggests confirming the location at Simpson Bay Marina.
• Wear appropriate clothing — bathing suits are best, and bringing a towel, sunscreen, and waterproof camera will enhance your experience.
• Physical fitness — this activity requires moderate physical effort, so if you’re comfortable on water, you’ll be fine.
• Group size — with a maximum of 4 jet skis departing at once, expect a small, friendly group.
• Weather considerations — tours are weather dependent; poor weather might lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options.

The Sum Up

The 1-hour jet ski tour in St. Maarten offers a lively way to see the island’s coastline, beaches, and even the famous Maho Airport in a fun, active setting. With friendly guides, stops for swimming and photos, and the ability to share a jet ski with a partner, it’s a great choice for travelers who crave a bit of adrenaline and authentic island views.

While it’s a short experience, the personalized guidance and scenic stops make it a memorable addition to your Caribbean itinerary. It’s especially suited for active travelers, water sports lovers, or anyone wanting a quick, fun taste of St. Maarten’s stunning waters.

If you’re after a unique, active way to explore the island in a small group, and don’t mind the $180 price tag for an hour of fun, this tour will likely delight you. Just remember to book early, confirm the meeting point, and bring your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Do I need a boat license to participate?
No, a boat license is not required to drive the jet ski, making it accessible even for beginners.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, covering the main coastal areas and beaches around St. Maarten.

Can I share the jet ski with a friend?
Yes, each jet ski can accommodate one or two riders at the same price of $180.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The starting point is at 127 Welfare Rd, Simpson Bay. Confirm recent reviews for updates, as the location has been confirmed at Simpson Bay Marina.

What should I wear?
Swimwear is recommended, along with sunscreen, waterproof camera, and a towel for after the swim stops.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
The activity is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Check with the provider if you have specific age or health concerns.

How many people typically join the tour?
A maximum of four jet skis leave at a time, so small groups of up to 8 participants are typical, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How far do we go on the tour?
The route takes you from Simpson Bay, through the lagoon, out into the ocean, around the Low Lands, and back — a scenic loop highlighting the best coastal views.

Can I book last-minute?
Booking is recommended about 27 days in advance, but checking availability closer to your trip is always wise.

Whether you’re seeking a quick thrill, a chance to see the island from the water, or just a fun way to spend an hour, this jet ski tour provides an active, scenic, and social experience in beautiful St. Maarten.