Private Snorkeling Charter to Pinel, Tintamarre islands and more

Discover the Charm of a Private Snorkeling Tour in St. Maarten

Imagine spending half a day aboard a comfortable boat, exploring some of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling sites in St. Maarten—without the crowds or rush. This private 6-hour snorkeling charter offers an intimate, tailor-made experience for up to 10 people, costing around $1,250 per group. The tour departs from the Philipsburg dock early in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy islands like Pinel and Tintamarre, plus the thrill of watching planes land at Maho Beach overhead.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized touch—your group has the entire boat and crew’s attention, allowing you to set your own pace and choose your favorite spots. Second, the variety of locations—from pristine reefs to lively beaches—means there’s something for all, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner.

A potential consideration? Since this is a private tour, it’s priced higher than group excursions, but you gain exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility. It’s worth it if you’re craving a relaxed, tailored day at sea rather than a crowded boat ride.

This tour best suits travelers who value authentic, less commercialized experiences, and enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters amidst beautiful Caribbean scenery. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want the freedom to customize your day, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private and tailored experience for up to 10 people, offering comfort and exclusivity.
• Multiple snorkeling stops including Creole Rock, Pinel, and Tintamarre, all known for their clear waters and vibrant marine life.
• Flexible itinerary allowing you to set the pace and choose spots that suit your interests.
• All equipment included, plus bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages for a refreshing day at sea.
• Expert crew focused on making your trip memorable, with glowing reviews praising their friendliness and knowledge.
• Cost is $1,250 per group, which offers good value considering the personalized service and private setting.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Setting Out from Philipsburg

Your adventure begins at Dock Maarten Marina in Philipsburg, a lively seaside town with a charming waterfront. The early 9:30 am departure gives you ample daylight hours to explore and snorkel. The boat, operated by All About Boat Charters, is described as new, clean, and comfortable—an important detail when considering how much time you’ll spend aboard.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The beauty of a private charter is that you can enjoy an unhurried experience. The typical day includes several stops, starting with the famous Creole Rock, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life. If snorkeling is your main goal, you’ll love the chance to see vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish in tranquil surroundings.

Next, you’ll head to Pinel Island, a small, lush retreat with calm waters perfect for relaxing and floating over colorful reefs. The reviews highlight the stunning views and the ease of swimming with provided gear, making it ideal for all skill levels.

One of the highlights is visiting Tintamarre Island—a less developed, pristine spot with rocky coves and impressive scenery. Travelers have raved about the beautiful sites and the comfortable boats that make snorkeling a joy.

Watching Planes Land at Maho Beach

A unique feature of this tour is the chance to witness the spectacle of planes landing just overhead at Maho Beach. This iconic moment is an exhilarating experience, especially for those who enjoy watching aircraft up close. The tour’s flexible nature allows you to choose how long to linger at this famous spot.

The Crew and Service

Guests have consistently praised the crew, especially Captain Smirnoff, for his knowledge, friendly attitude, and dedication to making the trip special. Whether navigating the waves or pointing out interesting sites, their professionalism enhances the overall experience. One reviewer noted, “He was absolutely terrific navigating the waves and showing us all the beautiful sights.”

Snorkeling Gear and Refreshments

All needed snorkeling equipment is provided, along with bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages, making the day both fun and refreshing. The reviews mention that the boats are new and clean, and the crew is attentive to your needs, ensuring you have everything necessary for a comfortable day.

Price and Value

At $1,250 per group, the experience offers personalized service and access to exclusive spots that larger tour groups might not enjoy. For travelers seeking a private, relaxed day at sea, this price tag reflects not only the private setting but also the quality of service and the variety of snorkeling opportunities.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is best suited for small groups, couples, or families looking for an intimate escape in the Caribbean. It’s ideal if you value flexibility—you can decide how long to stay at each island and what activities to prioritize. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic interactions with guides and stunning views that aren’t overly commercialized, you’ll find this tour a perfect fit.

It’s also a great option for celebrating special occasions—anniversaries, birthdays, or just a memorable day with friends. The reviews confirm that the personalized service and beautiful scenery make it a worthwhile splurge.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Departure

Your day kicks off at 9:30 am from the docks of Philipsburg. The meeting spot is accessible and near public transportation, which is convenient for most travelers. Once aboard the boat, you’ll quickly settle into a relaxed mood, knowing that your entire group has exclusive access.

First Stop: Creole Rock

This spot is often the first snorkeling destination for its vibrant marine life and clear waters. Expect to see colorful fish, coral formations, and probably some curious individual creatures. The reviews mention some of the best snorkeling with new, comfortable boats—making your time in the water enjoyable and hassle-free.

Second Stop: Pinel Island

Lush, quiet, and perfect for a swim or relaxing on the beach. The island’s calm waters are inviting, especially for those new to snorkeling or looking for a laid-back experience. You might find the scenery here particularly appealing—an unspoiled slice of Caribbean paradise.

Third Stop: Tintamarre Island

Described as pristine and less developed, Tintamarre offers rugged beauty and excellent snorkeling. You’ll want to bring your camera for the scenic rocky coves and sweeping views. The reviews highlight that the boats are new and well-maintained, making the journey comfortable even if the seas get a bit lively.

Watching the Planes at Maho Beach

This iconic location is a quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression. The sensation of planes thundering just overhead is thrilling and makes for memorable photos. You can choose to spend some time here or move along to the next snorkeling spot.

Return and Reflection

The tour ends back at the dock, typically around 3:30 to 4 pm, giving you time to unwind and perhaps explore more of Philipsburg afterward. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed and flexible, letting you soak in the sights at your own pace.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Reviews

Guests often highlight the stunning views at each stop. One reviewer raved, “Some of the best views and snorkeling” they’ve experienced in the Caribbean. The friendly crew and attention to detail—like providing everything needed for snorkeling—are frequently praised.

Another noted, “Our captain, Smirnoff, was incredible. Super nice guy and completely focused on making it an amazing trip for us.” This level of service adds a layer of comfort and trust, especially important on private charters where personalized attention matters.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a truly private escape in the Caribbean, with the freedom to customize your day and access some of the best snorkeling spots around St. Maarten, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families who value comfort, exclusivity, and authentic experiences over large, crowded excursions.

While the price may seem steep compared to group tours, the personalized service, flexibility, and stunning locations justify the expense. You’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery, clear waters, and friendly crew—all tailored to your preferences.

This tour isn’t for those seeking a fast-paced, packed schedule or budget-conscious travelers, but if you want a relaxed, scenic, and customizable day at sea, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending around 3:30–4 pm, allowing plenty of time for snorkeling and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages are included. You will also have exclusive use of the boat for your group.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a marine park/port fee of $10.00 per person, payable on the day of the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling equipment is provided, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced snorkelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Dock Maarten Marina in Philipsburg and ends back at the same location.

This private snorkeling adventure in St. Maarten offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, personalized service, and flexibility. Whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or simply seeking relaxation, it’s a memorable way to enjoy the Caribbean’s stunning waters.