3 Island Snorkeling Delight from St. Maarten

An Exciting Day Exploring Both Sides of St. Maarten

Imagine spending a full day exploring the dual personalities of St. Maarten, with its lively Dutch side and charming French ambiance—all in one trip. This 6-hour snorkeling adventure, priced at $139 per person, takes you on a power boat journey from the meeting point at Cole Bay, starting at 9:00 am, and covers several highlights that showcase the island’s diverse appeal. Guided by friendly crew members, this tour offers a chance to see spectacular underwater life, beautiful beaches, and even catch a glimpse of planes landing at Maho Beach—surely a bucket-list moment for many.

What we love most about this experience is how seamlessly it combines adventure and relaxation. First, you get to snorkel at Creole Rock, with its schools of fish and the possibility of swimming with turtles at Tintamarre Island—two of the best snorkeling spots around. Second, the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine at Grand Case—a renowned BBQ restaurant—adds a delicious, authentic touch.

A small consideration might be that some admission fees are extra (around $6 per person), which is common in Caribbean island tours. Also, while the tour is suitable for most, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, especially for snorkeling and swimming activities.

This tour suits travelers who want a full, active day with multiple highlights—from underwater scenery to scenic coastal views—without the hassle of planning each stop individually. Families, couples, or groups looking to maximize their day on the island will find this especially appealing.

Key Points

• Multiple Locations: Visit twin islands, Creole Rock, Tintamarre Island, Pinel Island, Long Bay, and Maho Beach.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Swim with a school of fish and turtles, exploring vibrant reefs.
• Cultural Flavor: Experience both French and Dutch sides of the island in one day.
• Included Amenities: Snorkeling gear, drinks, and a generous lunch with local flavor.
• Flexible and Convenient: Mobile ticket, pick-up from a central meeting point, and free cancellation.
• Moderate Fitness Needed: Expect some swimming, boat rides, and walking.

In-Depth Review of the 3 Island Snorkeling Delight Tour

First Impressions and Ease of Booking

Booking the 3 Island Snorkeling Delight is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 3 weeks in advance—an indication of its popularity. The $139 price point offers considerable value considering the included activities, meals, and multiple stops. The tour operates with a mobile ticket, making it easy to manage your reservation, and the meeting point at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay is conveniently located near public transportation options.

The Itinerary: A Well-Paced Exploration

The day begins at 9:00 am, with the crew welcoming you aboard a comfortable boat equipped for snorkeling and sightseeing. The first stop is the twin islands, where you can see the contrasting scenery of the Dutch and French sides—a quick but rewarding introduction to the island’s cultural mix.

Next, you’ll head to Creole Rock, a renowned snorkeling site. Here, you’ll love the schools of fish swirling around you and the chance to see turtles at Tintamarre Island, a protected area known for its crystal-clear waters. Romain_B, one reviewer, describes it as “a happiness for the eyes,” appreciating the proximity to the vibrant marine life and well-maintained equipment that enhances the experience.

Following the underwater adventure, the tour takes you to Pinel Island’s shallow waters, perfect for relaxing and wading in gentle, warm waves. It’s an ideal spot for a quick break and some family-friendly fun.

Lunchtime arrives at Grand Case, widely regarded as the island’s top local BBQ spot. This is a great chance to enjoy authentic flavors and mingle with locals, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your day.

Post-lunch, the boat cruises along the coast to Long Bay, offering scenic views and the chance for more swimming in calmer waters. The final interesting stop is Maho Beach, where you can see the planes landing and taking off—a surreal experience that even non-aviation fans find intriguing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour takes care of snorkeling gear, drinks (soda, beer, rum punch), and lunch, simplifying your day and reducing the need to bring a lot of gear or snacks. The admission fee of $6 for both sides of the island is an extra, but minor compared to the overall value.

While transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, the central location is accessible, and the tour’s small group size (max 24 travelers) means a more personalized experience.

Highlights From the Reviews

Romain_B’s glowing review sums up the experience perfectly: “Tout est parfait. Un bonheur pour les yeux avec la beauté de l’île. Apnee avec matériel, boissons, propreté du bateau, hôtes souriants, accueillants et au petits soins,” which translates to “everything is perfect—eyes are happy with the beauty of the island, snorkeling with equipment, drinks, clean boat, smiling and attentive hosts.”

Another reviewer appreciates the combination of adventure and comfort, noting how well everything is organized and how friendly and welcoming the crew is, a crucial factor for many travelers.

Practical Considerations

The tour is suitable for most, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Expect some swimming, boat rides, and walking. The provided snorkeling equipment is of good quality, but bringing your own mask and fins if you have specific preferences might enhance your comfort.

The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, especially if weather conditions threaten to spoil your plans. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of underwater adventure, scenic cruising, and cultural exploration. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate authentic local flavors and diverse scenery.

If you value stunning marine life, beautiful beaches, and the chance to see both sides of the island comfortably in one day, this tour offers excellent value. The small group size and friendly guides make it a personal, approachable way to experience St. Maarten.

Final Thoughts

The 3 Island Snorkeling Delight from St. Maarten offers a well-rounded, engaging day on the water with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing. Its combination of spectacular reefs, charming beaches, and local cuisine makes it a top choice for travelers wanting to see the island in a single day without feeling rushed.

While it’s not a luxury cruise, its focus on authentic experiences, friendly service, and great value makes it stand out. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and vibrant marine life—memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the starting point for this tour? The tour begins at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten.
• How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am.
• Are meals and drinks included? Yes, the tour includes lunch, soda, beer, and rum punch.
• Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, all snorkeling gear is included in the price.
• Will we visit both the Dutch and French sides of the island? Yes, the tour covers both sides in one day.
• How much are the island admission fees? A fee of around $6 per person applies for island entry.
• Is this tour suitable for children? Generally yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable swimming.
• What is the group size? The maximum group size is 24 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and tours canceled due to weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.
• Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear? No, gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

This tour strikes a great balance between guided adventure and independent exploration, making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a full day of island magic in St. Maarten.