Best Sailing Catamaran, Beach and Snorkel – Cruise Ship Friendly

Discover the Best Sailing Catamaran, Beach and Snorkel Tour in St Maarten

Imagine spending a day aboard a comfortable catamaran cruising along the stunning Dutch side of Sint Maarten, stopping at picturesque beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a Caribbean-style buffet lunch. For just around $122 per person, you’ll get six hours of sailing, relaxing, and exploring. This tour is designed to balance fun and comfort, with a friendly crew ensuring everyone has a memorable experience.

What we love most? First, the multiple stops for snorkeling and beach time that break up the trip and keep things lively — plus, the chance to spot planes landing at Maho Beach, a highlight for many. Second, the all-day open bar and delicious island barbecue lunch that add a relaxed, festive vibe. The only thing to consider? Weather can influence some stops, so flexibility is key. This tour suits those wanting a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and easygoing fun — perfect for families, groups, or anyone who appreciates authentic Caribbean moments.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with multiple snorkeling and beach stops along the Dutch coast.
• Inclusive amenities like open bar, island-style barbecue, snorkeling gear, and fresh water showers.
• Relaxed and friendly crew focused on safety and making guests feel comfortable.
• Spectacular views of planes landing at Maho Beach, a must-see for aviation fans.
• Flexible stops depending on weather, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
• Ideal for cruise ship travelers with easy boarding from Bobby’s Marina and a convenient location.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This 6-hour sailing adventure in St Maarten combines the best of the Caribbean’s natural beauty with laid-back luxury. Starting from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, the tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am, making it an ideal choice for cruise passengers wanting a full day without losing precious port time. The easy boarding process means you’ll step directly from the dock onto your catamaran, avoiding complicated transfers or long walks.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First Stop: Great Bay Beach
Just a 10-minute ride from the marina, this stretch of white sand offers calm waters perfect for initial orientation. You’ll love the chance to stretch your legs and soak in your first views of the island’s coast. It’s a gentle start, but it sets the tone for the day ahead.

Second Stop: Little Bay
Here, the crew provides snorkeling gear and instruction, making it accessible even if you’re new to snorkeling. You’ll love the clarity of the water and the chance to see underwater life up close. One reviewer shared, “The crew was amazing and made time for everyone,” highlighting the attentive service. Expect about an hour here for snorkeling and swimming.

Multiple Beach and Snorkel Stops
Throughout the day, you’ll visit some of the most scenic spots like Mullet Bay and potentially Baie Longue. These spots are renowned for their turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and relaxing vibes. You might spend an hour at each, swimming, sunbathing, or simply floating on a noodle while the crew prepares Caribbean barbecue. A fellow traveler described it as “delicious lunch onboard and relaxing with floating bars,” which captures the essence of these stops.

The Maho Beach Experience
As you head back towards Philipsburg, you’ll pass directly over Maho Beach, famous for planes landing just overhead. Watching these massive aircraft descend so close is a thrill — a favorite for many, as one review put it, “watching planes land and take off right above us is unforgettable.”

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour offers a lot of value for the price, with lunch, snorkeling equipment, open bar, and snacks all included. The island-style barbecue lunch features ribs, chicken, rice, potato salad, gouda cheese, and salads — enough for a satisfying meal while you relax on deck. The open bar serves beer, Mount Gay Rhum Punch, sodas, juices, and water, so you can sip your favorite island drinks all day.

The snorkeling gear and instruction are perfect for beginners — the crew is friendly and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable exploring underwater. The floating bar and noodles add to the laid-back Caribbean party atmosphere, while amenities like shade, electric toilets, and fresh water showers keep everyone comfortable.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Guests often highlight the professional and friendly crew, with many reviews praising their attentiveness. One traveler called them “amazing,” while others appreciated the crew’s effort to accommodate large groups or special requests. The maximum of 30 travelers helps maintain a cozy, enjoyable environment, avoiding the feeling of being just one of many on a crowded boat.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Multiple snorkeling and beach stops ensure plenty of variety and relaxation.
– Great value considering the included food, drinks, and equipment.
– Spectacular views of Maho Airport and the Caribbean coast, ideal for photo enthusiasts.
– Friendly, professional crew eager to make your day memorable.

Potential Drawbacks:
– Weather can influence stops, with some moments possibly less scenic if conditions turn rough.
– For those seeking extensive snorkeling, some reviews suggest the snorkeling time might feel limited, especially if the water visibility isn’t perfect.
– Larger groups can mean a busier atmosphere, which some might find less intimate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is most suitable for cruise ship passengers looking for a hassle-free, fun-filled day. It’s perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a taste of the Caribbean’s beauty without strenuous activity or complicated logistics. The relaxed pace, delicious food, and scenic stops make it an ideal way to enjoy Sint Maarten’s coast in comfort. If you’re interested in snorkeling, beach lounging, and plane watching, you’ll find this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a well-organized, inclusive experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, beach time, and great food, this tour offers excellent value. The friendly crew, scenic stops, and lively atmosphere make it a favorite among many travelers, as seen from glowing reviews. It’s particularly appealing if you want a low-stress adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxing, and enjoying the beautiful Caribbean.

While weather can sometimes influence the day, the flexible stops and attentive crew mean you’ll still get a memorable experience no matter what. The unbeatable combination of stunning scenery, onboard amenities, and authentic Caribbean flavor makes it a standout choice for those visiting St Maarten on a cruise or seeking a day of easy, authentic island fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention bringing grandchildren and feeling comfortable with kids. The crew is attentive and helpful for all ages.

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, with easy access from cruise ships or nearby accommodations.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll get approximately an hour at the snorkeling stop, with equipment and instruction provided to make it accessible for beginners.

What’s included in the lunch?
A Caribbean-style barbecue including ribs, chicken, rice, potato salad, gouda cheese, and salads.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. Many stops are for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying drinks onboard.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 30 travelers, maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar all day with beer, Mount Gay Rhum Punch, sodas, and water.

Can I buy snacks or extra drinks?
Snacks such as mini baguette sandwiches are included, but extra drinks can be purchased at the floating bar.

Is this tour good for first-time snorkelers?
Yes, with provided instruction and gear, even beginners can enjoy the underwater sights safely.

In sum, this sailing, snorkeling, and beach excursion in St Maarten delivers a relaxed, scenic, and delicious Caribbean experience that’s hard to beat for cruise passengers or those seeking a taste of island life in a single day.