Private St. Maarten Cruise – Hakuna Matata Catamaran

Imagine sailing along turquoise Caribbean waters aboard a spacious 47-foot catamaran, with your own group of up to eight people. This private tour, offered by Ocean Tales Adventures, costs $1,830 for the entire boat, making it a surprisingly good value when you consider a personalized experience tailored just for your group. Starting at 9:00 am from Philipsburg, the journey lasts around seven hours—long enough to really unwind, explore, and enjoy some of the best spots around St. Maarten.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, it’s completely flexible—you choose where to go, whether that’s snorkeling among colorful marine life, relaxing on hidden beaches, or hiking to secluded spots. Second, the crew’s homemade food, prepared with fresh ingredients and served with a friendly attitude, elevates the experience from typical to truly special. With over 20 years of sailing experience, Captain Robert shares lively stories about the islands and his adventures around the world, adding a personal touch you won’t find on large, commercial tours.

A few things to keep in mind: this is a private tour, so your group’s desires shape the day. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a personalized escape. The only real consideration? The price might seem steep if you’re traveling solo, but splitting it among your group offers excellent value. If you’re after a customized, laid-back day with top-notch food and scenery, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, intimate settings, and the freedom to craft their own adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You direct the day’s activities in a private setting, making it perfect for family gatherings or romantic escapes.
• Expert Guidance: Captain Robert’s 20+ years of sailing experience and engaging storytelling enhance the trip’s authenticity.
• Delicious Homemade Food: Expect fresh sandwiches, grilled dishes, and locally-foraged ingredients prepared onboard.
• Flexible Itinerary: Snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, or hiking—your choice.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Up to 8 guests for a cozy, exclusive experience.
• Weather Flexibility: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, your trip can be rescheduled without stress.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: From the Dock to the Caribbean Waters

Your day begins at Greenhouse2XC5+426 in Philipsburg, where you meet your crew aboard the Hakuna Matata. The boat itself is a beautiful, spacious 47-foot catamaran, designed for comfort and stability—perfect for a smooth ride over the often gentle Caribbean waves. Captain Robert, with his approachable demeanor and wealth of sailing knowledge, makes everyone feel at home right away. He’s not just about sailing; he’s about creating a memorable day tailored to your interests.

The Itinerary: Your Day, Your Rules

Unlike cookie-cutter tours, this experience emphasizes flexibility. You’ll have a chance to choose what you want to do—whether that’s snorkeling in clear waters to glimpse vibrant fish, sea turtles, stingrays, or maybe even playful dolphins, or simply lounging on deck with a chilled drink in hand. One highlight from reviews was the crew’s attentiveness during snorkeling, ensuring everyone felt safe and had a good view of the marine life.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to hidden beaches only accessible by boat, or explore uninhabited areas like Dog Island—a favorite among previous travelers for its pristine, private feel. The crew’s local knowledge shines during these moments, guiding you to lesser-known spots that larger tours often miss, making your experience truly unique.

Food and Drinks: Homemade and Heartfelt

One of the most praised aspects of this cruise is the food. Expect homemade sandwiches, grilled chicken or ribs, and fresh salads, all prepared onboard with fresh ingredients. Many reviews mention how delicious and plentiful the meals are, with some describing the ribs as “some of the best I’ve ever tasted.” Snacks, sodas, bottled water, and even cocktails or chilled local beer are included, allowing you to relax fully without worry.

The crew is happy to cater to your preferences, and one reviewer appreciated the opportunity to bring their own speaker to play music—adding a personal touch to the mood onboard. The hospitality and genuine friendliness of Captain Robert and his crew make you feel welcomed and cared for all day long.

Snorkeling and Beach Time

Snorkeling is a key feature, and you’ll love the clarity of the waters. Expect to see sea turtles, stingrays, and an array of colorful fish. The reviews highlight how attentive the crew is during these activities, helping all levels of swimmers feel comfortable. The secluded beaches are perfect for unwinding; some guests found the beaches so quiet they felt like they had the whole island to themselves.

Scenic Cruising and Storytelling

What sets this trip apart is Captain Robert’s storytelling. His tales about the islands, his voyages, and the sea bring an extra dimension to the day. Several guests shared how his engaging stories made the trip more than just a boat ride—they made it a personal journey. The sailing itself, whether under power or while on a gentle breeze, offers stunning views that you’ll want to photograph.

Weather and Rescheduling

Since the Caribbean weather can be unpredictable, the crew’s flexible policy is a big plus. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, your trip can be rescheduled at no extra cost. This means you won’t be left disappointed if rain or wind spoil the plans, which is reassuring when planning a day on the water.

The Price and What You Get

For $1,830 per group (up to 8 people), you’re essentially renting an entire private boat. When you consider the personalized attention, homemade meals, snorkeling gear, and drinks included, this is a solid value for a premium experience. Splitting the cost between your group reduces the expense considerably—making it comparable to other group excursions but with far more intimacy and flexibility.

Many reviewers felt the experience exceeded expectations. The combination of fresh food, expert guidance, and the freedom to customize the day makes this tour stand out from more structured, less personal options. Plus, the excellent reviews (5.0/5) and glowing testimonials suggest it’s well worth the investment for those who want a one-of-a-kind day in the Caribbean.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private cruise is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who cherish personalized experiences. It’s perfect if you value knowing your guide has extensive local and sailing knowledge, and if good food and relaxed beach time are on your must-have list. It suits travelers who dislike large crowds and prefer an intimate, flexible day tailored to their interests.

If you’re looking for a highly customizable, friendly, and well-organized day out with excellent value for the price, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a knowledgeable guide who shares stories and treats your group like friends.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy use of snorkeling equipment, swimming noodles, bottled water, sodas, snacks, and alcoholic beverages. Homemade meals, including lunch and dinner, are also included.

How many people can join?
Up to 8 guests per booking, making it a very private experience. Additional guests cost $180 each.

What should I bring?
Bring beach towels, sun protection, and motion sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness. The crew provides most essentials, but personal items like music speakers are allowed.

Can we reschedule if the weather looks bad?
Yes, if the weather isn’t suitable, the trip can be rescheduled at no extra charge. The crew’s flexible policy provides peace of mind.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Greenhouse2XC5+426 in Philipsburg and returns there at the end of the day.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, providing plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and explore.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included, but it’s appreciated if you feel the crew went above and beyond.

The Sum Up

This private St. Maarten cruise with Hakuna Matata offers a rare chance for a truly customized Caribbean day. From sailing with a seasoned captain to enjoying homemade meals and exploring hidden beaches, you get a mix of adventure, relaxation, and personal connection. The small-group size and flexible itinerary ensure you won’t feel like just another tourist, but rather a guest on a day crafted around your desires.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide who genuinely cares, this tour stands out. It’s perfect for groups craving a personalized escape—especially if delicious food, snorkeling, and tranquil beaches are part of your Caribbean bucket list. Just be prepared for the price—consider it an investment in a memorable, stress-free day that will likely be one of the trip’s highlights.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a day away from crowds, this cruise offers Caribbean luxury with a personal touch. Book early, plan on bringing your sense of adventure—and get ready for a day you’ll talk about long after you’re back home.