Experience the Best of St. Maarten on a Private 3-Hour Catamaran Tour

When it comes to exploring the dazzling waters of St. Maarten, a private 3-hour catamaran adventure offers a fantastic way to see the island from a different perspective—at your own pace, with personalized stops, and all the comforts of a luxury boat. For around $1,200 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll get a tailored cruise that visits some of the island’s most scenic spots, with drinks, snacks, and snorkel gear included.

What we love most about this tour is its flexibility—your captain will work with you to craft a route that suits your interests, whether that’s snorkeling at Creole Rock or watching planes land at Maho Beach. Plus, the personalized attention makes it a standout experience, especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion.

One thing to consider is the cost—it’s not the cheapest outing, but given the private nature and inclusions, it offers excellent value for those seeking a bespoke experience. Expect it to appeal most to travelers who appreciate comfort, exclusivity, and authentic local sights. If you’re someone who prefers structured tours, this may feel too unplanned, but if “go with the flow” suits you, you’ll love it.

In short, this tour is ideal for small groups looking for a relaxed, customizable day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, explore, and enjoy the stunning scenery at your own pace.

Key Points

Private and Personalized: Entirely customizable for your party, ensuring a unique experience.
Inclusive Amenities: Drinks, snacks, lunch, and snorkel gear included—great value for a half-day adventure.
Flexible Itinerary: Visit multiple scenic spots, including Marigot Marina, Simpson Bay Lagoon, Maho Beach, and more.
Authentic Experience: Small group size guarantees attentive service and a chance to ask questions.
Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: Perfect for those wanting a low-pressure, fun, and scenic day on the water.
Considerations: Cost might be higher than group tours, but the exclusivity and flexibility are hard to beat.

In-Depth Review of the Private Catamaran Adventure

Exploring St. Maarten by boat captures the island’s spirit beautifully—waves, wind, and the chance to see some of the most iconic sights from the water. This 3-hour private charter is a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s highlights while maintaining complete control over your day. It’s especially suited for small groups wanting a taste of luxury, fun, and adventure, without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours.

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Starting Point and What to Expect

Meet your captain and crew at Bobbys Marina in Philipsburg, ideally 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you a moment to settle in, go over your desired stops, and chat about the day ahead. Be sure to bring essentials like a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, and a change of clothes. The crew offers snorkel equipment, inflatable vests, and noodles—perfect for non-swimmers or those just wanting to float around.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The beauty of a private tour is that it’s adaptable, but here’s a typical route packed with highlights:

Little Bay kicks off the adventure, offering an easy snorkeling spot and stunning views of the calm, clear water. Many guests enjoy this tranquil first stop, as one reviewer noted, “we could stop for an easy snorkel on our way to the French side.” It’s a gentle introduction to the day’s activities.

Next, the boat cruises past Indigo Bay, a newer ecological development with spacious homes and pristine waters. Although not a formal stop, it’s a scenic pass that adds to the tour’s exclusive feel.

Cruising into Simpson Bay Lagoon, you’ll be amazed by the marinas filled with mega yachts, some owned by celebrities, which makes for excellent photo opportunities. As you glide under the Simpson Bay Bridge, you’ll feel the thrill of entering this lively and upscale waterway. The lagoon is a hub of activity, vibrant with boats and water activity—an authentic slice of island life.

Baie Longue is a must-see, known for its peaceful waters and luxury residences. The bay’s calmness makes it perfect for a quick swim or even a daring jump from a cliff—something many guests consider a fun, if slightly adrenaline-pumping, end to their snorkeling. You might appreciate the ease of access here for a future visit.

The tour then takes you to the world-famous Maho Beach, where planes fly directly overhead as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport. Watching these enormous aircraft pass just feet above your head is a thrill—an experience that keeps appearing in reviews as a “must-see” highlight. It’s a fun photo-op and a unique spectacle you won’t forget.

Finally, the cruise returns to Philipsburg via Great Bay Beach. The crew might suggest a quick stop for browsing local shops or sampling some of the island’s famous Guavaberry rum—another highlight for many visitors. The tour concludes back at Bobby’s Marina, where an easy transfer back to your cruise or hotel is arranged.

The Snorkeling and Drinking Experience

Snorkeling is a significant part of this adventure. The crew provides snorkel gear, inflatables, and noodles, making it accessible for all. Many travelers, like Maria, appreciated the personalized touches: “Captain Lisandro and Charlie were great and allowed us to personalize our time, which was so helpful when traveling with small kids.” The ability to tailor the stops means you can spend more time where you’re most interested, whether that’s snorkeling, relaxing, or watching the planes.

The onboard open bar includes Carib, Coors Light, Happy Rhum Punch, sodas, juices, and water—enough variety to keep everyone refreshed. Snacks like mini baguette sandwiches with ham & cheese or tuna are served after the first snorkeling stop, ensuring you stay energized for the next leg of your journey.

Comfort and Facilities

The vessel is a power catamaran with 60% shade, making it suitable for sunny days. Its swimming pool-style ladder makes getting in and out easier, and the freshwater shower and electric toilets add to the comfort. The spacious deck allows passengers to lounge comfortably while enjoying the views or chatting with the crew.

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The Value of a Private Tour

While $1,200 might seem steep at first glance, the private nature of the trip means you won’t be fighting for space or trying to keep up with a large group. Plus, all amenities—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear—are included. This level of service and customization is hard to match at this price point, especially considering the exclusive focus on your party.

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, we can see this tour consistently delights its guests. Jessica praised her experience, saying, “Josh and Tamara made my birthday the most amazing experience ever.” The personalized approach is evident in the numerous comments about captains and crew being attentive and accommodating.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups, families, or couples seeking a relaxed, personalized day on the water. If you love the idea of customizing your stops, snorkeling at your leisure, and enjoying drinks in a beautiful setting, this tour fits the bill. It’s also suitable for those celebrating special occasions or wanting to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger, rigid tours.

The Sum Up

A private 3-hour catamaran tour in St. Maarten offers a memorable way to explore the island’s coastlines, beaches, and lagoons with total control over your day. The inclusions of snacks, drinks, and snorkel gear, combined with the intimate setting, make it a worthwhile choice for those who value comfort and personalization. Whether you’re snorkeling at Creole Rock, watching planes land at Maho Beach, or simply relaxing on deck with a beverage, you’ll find this experience strikes a nice balance between adventure and leisure.

This tour is best suited for small groups, families, or couples who want to enjoy the island’s sights at their own pace without the crowds or rigid schedules. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy authentic experiences and appreciate the luxury of a private boat. If you’re looking for a relaxed, flexible, and scenic day at sea, this tour offers excellent value and a truly memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy multiple stops and relax.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel equipment, inflatable vests, noodles, an open bar (including drinks like Carib, Coors Light, Rhum Punch, sodas, and water), snacks (mini baguette sandwiches), freshwater shower, and electric toilets are included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the captain and crew will work with you to plan the day’s stops based on weather and your preferences, making it a highly flexible experience.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, inflatable vests and noodles are available for non-swimmers, and the snorkeling spots are generally calm and accessible.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Eagle Tours at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, swimwear, change of clothes, sunglasses, and a windbreaker if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers; however, pregnant women are advised against participating, and there is a weight limit of 125 kg (275 lbs).

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refunds are available if canceled more than a day in advance.

This private catamaran adventure in St. Maarten offers a balance of relaxation, exploration, and personalized service—perfect for making your island visit genuinely special.