5 Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail in Sint Maarten on The Phoenix

Experience a 5-hour luxury catamaran cruise in Sint Maarten aboard The Phoenix, exploring stunning sights and enjoying water sports, food, and drinks.
You’ll set sail from the convenient location of Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg on a spacious, well-maintained catamaran, with a friendly crew guiding you through a day of fun on the Caribbean Sea. The journey includes stops at Little Bay, Maho Beach, and Mullet or Simpson Bay, giving you a mixture of natural beauty, exciting plane flyovers, and relaxing swimming spots. For $139 per person, you’re getting a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of water sports with the comfort of an all-day cruise.

What we love about this tour is the variety of water activities included—from snorkeling and paddleboarding to relaxing on an 18-foot lily water mat—making it perfect whether you’re seeking adventure or just some laid-back sunbathing. Plus, the well-cooked onboard lunch and unlimited drinks, including cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, mean you won’t need to worry about a thing.

A small consideration is that the tour may be affected by weather, and if seas are rough, it could be less comfortable—so check the forecast if you’re prone to seasickness. This experience suits travelers who love being on the water, enjoy a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, and appreciate good food and drinks in an authentic Caribbean setting. Families, couples, and groups looking for a memorable day on the sea will find this trip offers great value for the price.

Key Points

• All-inclusive water sports: snorkels, paddleboards, and water mats are provided.
• Delicious onboard cuisine: fresh breakfast snacks and a cooked lunch satisfy hungry tummies.
• Flexible stops: visit Little Bay, Maho Beach, and Mullet/Simpson Bay for swimming, sunbathing, and plane spotting.
• Unlimited beverages: enjoy cocktails, beer, soda, and water throughout the cruise.
• Comfortable and spacious: large catamaran with a friendly crew and a maximum of 36 travelers.
• Easy departure point: from Bobby’s Marina, just a short walk from Philipsburg.

The Complete Review

The Experience and Itinerary

Starting at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, the experience kicks off at 10:00 am. From our first step onto The Phoenix, we appreciated the spacious and clean setup that promised comfort for the day. The crew offers a friendly welcome and a quick safety briefing before setting sail along Sint Maarten’s shoreline. The boat’s size—accommodating up to 36 guests—ensures a lively but not crowded atmosphere, perfect for mingling or relaxing with your own space.

The first stop at Little Bay lasts about an hour. Here, the crew provides snorkel gear and guidance for those eager to explore beneath the waves. We loved how the water was warm and clear, inviting us to see colorful fish and coral. The reviews reinforce that snorkeling is a key highlight, with one guest noting, “We had fun snorkeling at Little Bay,” making this a must for anyone wanting to see marine life up close. The crew’s friendliness and helpfulness shine through, with one reviewer mentioning that Camille was particularly attentive, especially when a guest felt seasick—highlighting the crew’s caring attitude.

Next, the sail drifts past Maho Beach, famous for its close encounters with airplanes taking off from Princess Juliana International Airport. Though we didn’t stop directly at the beach, we enjoyed a 15-minute slow sail-by, watching planes descend just meters above us—an experience that makes for some fantastic photos. Several reviews mention how special this view is, with one stating, “Watching planes fly over at Maho is unforgettable.” It’s a great photo opportunity and a fun way to get a sense of the island’s unique vibe.

The final stop is at Mullet or Simpson Bay, where the boat anchors for about 90 minutes. This is the perfect spot to swim, float, or just relax. Guests often rave about the beautiful Caribbean waters and the variety of water activities. One reviewer described it as “very relaxing with plenty to do,” emphasizing how this spot offers both exciting exploration and tranquil downtime. The crew supplies noodles, water mats, and paddleboards, enhancing your options for fun.

Water Sports and Relaxation

The tour’s inclusion of snorkel gear, paddleboards, and a large water mat really adds value. These are not just add-ons; they are central to the experience. Whether you’re eager to see colorful fish close up or just float lazily in the sea, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the water. Reviews confirm that the water activities are fun for all ages, with families mentioning their children loved the swimming and snorkeling.

Food and Drink

One of the most praised features of this tour is the fresh onboard lunch. Described as “delicious” and “cooked onboard,” it includes options like chicken with coconut rice, salad, and cookies for dessert. Guests also mention abundant snacks and drinks—from sodas to cocktails—that keep everyone refreshed throughout the cruise. Several reviews highlight the friendly service and high-quality food as adding to the overall value, with one guest stating, “the drinks were flowing and the food was exceptional.”

Atmosphere and Crew

The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are frequently mentioned, with reviews praising Captain Benji, Camille, and Rasheed for their attentiveness and good humor. They strike a balance between safety, entertainment, and making everyone feel welcomed. The review quotes like “the staff was 10/10, caring and professional” reinforce this impression. Many guests note that the crew’s personalized attention makes the day special, whether helping with seasickness or showing new ways to jump off the boat.

Practical Details

Transportation to the departure point is straightforward, as the meeting spot is right outside Aziana’s restaurant at Bobby’s Marina. The tour departs promptly at 10:00 am, and the return is back at the same location. The duration of 5 hours provides ample time to enjoy multiple stops, water activities, and a leisurely lunch without feeling rushed.

The group size maxes out at 36 travelers, which strikes a good balance—small enough to feel personal, but large enough to foster a lively atmosphere. The price of $139 per person is quite reasonable considering all the included water sports, food, drinks, and the overall experience. Many reviewers mention “great value” and “one of the best excursions”, especially for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Considerations

Many reviews mention how seasickness can affect some guests, especially on a longer sail out to the swimming spots. We recommend taking seasickness medication if you’re prone to nausea. The weather can also influence the experience—rough seas or windy days might make some water activities less enjoyable or more challenging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love being on the water, want an active yet relaxed day, and appreciate good food and drinks, this cruise is perfect. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to explore different parts of Sint Maarten from the sea, with plenty of water-based fun. Those seeking an authentic Caribbean experience and memorable sights like planes flying overhead at Maho Beach will find this tour hits all the right notes.

The Sum Up

This luxury catamaran day sail offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, water activities, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe—all at a very reasonable price. The crew’s warmth and professionalism shine through, making you feel well cared for from start to finish. The included snorkeling, paddleboarding, and water mats add adventure, while the well-prepared lunch and unlimited drinks keep you fueled and refreshed.

For travelers wanting a balanced day of scenery, water fun, and delicious food in Sint Maarten, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a great way to see the island’s highlights from the sea, especially if you want to combine activity with comfort and good company.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
You’ll meet at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, right in front of Aziana’s restaurant, which is easy to find.

How long does the cruise last?
The total experience lasts about 5 hours, including multiple stops, water activities, and lunch.

Are water sports equipment included?
Yes, snorkel gear, paddleboards, and a large lily water mat are all included, so you can enjoy a variety of water fun.

Is food provided onboard?
Absolutely. Expect a cooked lunch with options like chicken and coconut rice, along with snacks and fresh fruit.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are offered, including cocktails, beer, soda, and water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for seasick guests?
Seasickness can be an issue; it’s recommended to take medication beforehand if you’re prone. The sail out to the stops can be about an hour, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this cruise blends scenic sea views, water-based adventures, and hearty Caribbean hospitality into a memorable day. Whether you’re after the thrill of snorkeling, the spectacle of airplane flyovers, or simply soaking up the sun in comfort, it’s a solid choice for anyone visiting Sint Maarten.