Best Boat Trip, Sightseeing and Beach Excursion

A 3-Hour Boat Excursion in St Maarten That Combines Sightseeing, Beach Relaxation, and Fun

Imagine cruising along the coast of St Maarten aboard a roomy power catamaran named Magic Time, with the sun warming your face and the breeze gently tousling your hair. For just $99 per person, you get a lively 3-hour adventure that mixes sightseeing, beach lounging, snorkeling, and plenty of good times, all led by some friendly, knowledgeable crew members. Starting from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity—ideal for those wanting to experience the island from the water with a lively, social vibe.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the upbeat atmosphere with lively party music, unlimited drinks, and inflatable floaties that keep the fun flowing. Second, the variety of stunning stops including Great Bay Beach, Simpson Bay, Maho, and Mullet Bay, where you can lounge, snap photos of mega yachts, or even snorkel amidst colorful coral reefs.

A potential consideration is that this is an adults-only tour, so it’s best suited for travelers over 18 seeking a lively day on the water. Also, at 3 hours, it might feel a little short if you’re eager to explore the island more extensively. For those craving a social, energetic experience packed with scenic views and fun, this trip hits the mark.

This excursion is ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, socializing, and relaxing in a beautiful setting. If you love being on the water with a crew that’s friendly and attentive, and want to indulge in unlimited drinks while enjoying the island’s sights, this tour will probably be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Lively atmosphere with music, floating mattresses, and inflatable floaties.
• Multiple stops at iconic beaches like Mullet Bay and Simpson Bay with options for snorkeling or lounging.
• Unlimited drinks including beer, Mount Gay Rum Punch, sodas, and juices, with fresh baguette sandwiches.
• Expert crew members who are friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to fun.
• Convenient boardings from Bobby’s Marina.
• Adults only, perfect for travelers over 18 seeking a social scene.

A Detailed Review of the Magic Time Boat Trip in St Maarten

How the Tour Starts: Easy Boarding and a Taste of the Coast

Your adventure begins at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, where boarding on the Magic Time catamaran feels notably straightforward. The easy access from the dock is appreciated, especially after a day of travel or sightseeing in town. As we stepped aboard, the crew greeted us with warm smiles, setting the tone for a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

The boat itself is described as spacious, which is a big plus. You won’t feel cramped, even if the boat is at full capacity. With a maximum of 26 travelers, it’s a relatively intimate experience, giving everyone plenty of room to relax, dance, or find a shady spot in the cockpit.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Iconic Sights and Beach Time

Stop 1: Great Bay Beach
Our journey kicks off with a 10-minute stop at Great Bay Beach, right at Bobby’s Marina. This initial leg is mostly for boarding and orientation, so don’t expect a lengthy visit here, but it’s a great way to start by enjoying views of the coastline. The fact that admission is included makes it straightforward—no extra fees or hassle.

Stop 2: Simpson Bay
Next, we cruise past Little Bay and Indigo Bay, giving us a scenic view of the island’s coastline. Then, it’s about an hour at Simpson Bay, which many reviews highlight as a favorite. You’ll get a close-up look at some spectacular mega yachts, perfect for photo ops, and the chance to walk on the white sand beach if you wish. One guest beautifully summed it up: “Stopped at multiple destinations and so informative about the island. Best time in our trip!”

Stop 3: Maho
Passing the famous Maho Beach, known for its close-up plane landings, this 10-minute pass-by offers an exciting visual experience. While you don’t stop here, watching aircraft descend with jets flying just overhead is a thrill and a memorable photo moment.

Stop 4: Mullet Bay
The tour includes a possible hour-long stop at Mullet Bay, renowned for its scenic beauty. According to reviews, this is one of the island’s prettiest beaches. You can lounge on the sand, snorkel in the clear waters, or just soak up the scenery. The flexibility to stop here makes the experience feel personalized and relaxed.

What’s Included: Food, Drinks, and Fun

The snacks are a highlight—freshly made baguette sandwiches filled with turkey ham and cheese, or tuna with lettuce and tomato—simple but satisfying. The open bar keeps spirits high, with unlimited beer, Mount Gay Rum Punch, and sodas. It’s a relaxed, social environment, perfect for unwinding and chatting with fellow travelers.

The music is lively, adding to the party vibe. You’ll find inflatable floaties, a floating lily pad, and floating chairs for basking in the sun or lounging in the water. The crew is described as friendly and attentive, making sure everyone has what they need and that the atmosphere stays upbeat.

Snorkeling and Beach Time: Options for Everyone

If you’re inclined, the snorkeling equipment is available for exploring vibrant reefs and marine life. Several reviews mention how informative the crew was about the different stops, and how much fun it was to swim and snorkel in the clear waters of Mullet Bay or other stops. The option to stay on the boat and dance or sunbathe in the shaded cockpit** means you don’t have to be in the water to enjoy yourself.

The Return Journey: Relaxed and Fun-Filled

After a lively afternoon, you’ll head back to Bobby’s Marina. The reverse route offers more scenic views and a great way to unwind. The timing works well, with a start at 1:15 pm, giving you a perfect mid-afternoon escape before the evening.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable staff, with one guest noting that Captain Malina and Charlie went out of their way to make the experience memorable. Comments like “small groups, so there was so much space” and “a wonderful and friendly crew” emphasize the personal touch that makes this tour special.

Several travelers highlight how much they enjoyed the variety of stops and the informative nature of the guides, who explained the significance of landmarks and local sights. The food and drinks consistently received praise for being plentiful and tasty—a simple but meaningful touch that adds to the overall value.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

• Price and value: For $99, you get a well-rounded experience with food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple scenic stops, making it a good value for a half-day adventure.
• Group size: Limited to 26 travelers, ensuring plenty of space and a less crowded, more personal experience.
• Timing: The 1:15 pm start fits well into a day of island exploration or a relaxed afternoon after morning activities.
• Adults only: The tour is for those 18 and older, making it suitable for mature travelers looking for a lively atmosphere.
• Weather dependency: The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellation and a full refund or rescheduled date.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect if you’re after a fun, social day on the water with a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and beach lounging. It’s especially suited for adults wanting a lively, all-inclusive experience with friendly guides and a relaxed vibe. If you appreciate good music, unlimited drinks, and authentic beach scenery, you’ll find this tour a memorable highlight.

Those traveling as a couple or with friends will enjoy the social atmosphere, while solo travelers might appreciate the chance to meet others in a fun environment. However, if you’re after a more quiet or family-oriented outing, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is adults only, for those 18 and older, to maintain the lively, party atmosphere.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 1:15 pm and ending back at Bobby’s Marina, including travel time and stops.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, you can use the snorkeling equipment included, giving you the chance to explore the underwater scenery at stops like Mullet Bay.

What do I need to bring?
While towels aren’t included, you might want to bring beach towels, sunglasses, and sun protection. The tour supplies floaties and foam mattresses for lounging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and receive a full refund.

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

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility, but since boarding is from a dock and the boat is spacious, it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special needs.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour boat trip in St Maarten offers an excellent blend of scenic sightseeing, beach relaxation, and social fun. With friendly guides, lively music, and unlimited drinks, it’s designed to create a lively, memorable experience that’s perfect for travelers wanting to unwind and enjoy the island from a different perspective. The stops at iconic beaches and the opportunity to snorkel make it both active and relaxing, suited for those who appreciate a straightforward, well-organized tour with a personal touch.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to add some splash to your vacation, this tour delivers value, fun, and authentic island experiences—all in just a few hours. It’s a lively, social way to see parts of the island you wouldn’t easily access on your own, with enough flexibility for both water lovers and beach loungers.

In summary, if you’re after a lively, all-inclusive, and scenic boat trip with fantastic crew, good music, and plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation, this tour in St Maarten is an excellent choice. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy a social atmosphere and want a memorable, upbeat day on the water—without breaking the bank.