Billy Bones St.Maarten Getaway for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS

A Day on the Water in St. Maarten with Billy Bones

If you’re visiting St. Maarten via cruise and crave a way to explore its stunning coastline away from the typical crowded beaches, the Billy Bones St. Maarten Getaway offers a thoughtfully designed 6-hour adventure. Priced at $139 per person, this tour combines snorkeling, scenic stops, and local cuisine with the chance to see some of the island’s best spots—from Tintamarre Island to Maho Beach. The experience begins at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg and includes transportation, an open bar, and a hearty lunch—all with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a manageable, friendly atmosphere.

What stands out most for us are the personalized guides, who are noted for their knowledge and enthusiasm, and the variety of stops that cater to both adventure lovers and those simply looking to relax. Plus, the delicious local lunch at Grand Case gives this experience a nice culinary touch. A small caveat? The boat ride can be bumpy at times, which might not be ideal if you’re particularly sensitive to motion or seasickness.

This tour is well-suited for cruise travelers wanting to maximize their time onshore without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who value authentic island experiences, engaging guides, and a mix of fun and relaxation. If you’re eager for snorkeling, gorgeous views, and a taste of local culture, this tour checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic island exploration with stops at scenic and secluded beaches
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights
• All-inclusive package with snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and transportation
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, prioritizing safety
• Ideal for cruise ship guests, with convenient pickup and drop-off
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe

Exploring St. Maarten with Billy Bones: What You Can Expect

The Billy Bones Getaway is a well-rounded way for cruise travelers to see and experience a slice of St. Maarten’s natural beauty and local life. It’s a full-day adventure, roughly 6 hours long, that balances activity with relaxation, and is designed to make the most of each stop.

Starting Point: Philipsburg and Bobby’s Marina

The tour kicks off at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg—a bustling cruise port hub. From the moment we met our guide, the friendly, approachable atmosphere was clear. The group of no more than 20 travelers meant we felt like friends rather than just numbers. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation or taxis, which is handy if you’re arriving directly from your cruise ship.

First Stop: Creole Rock for Snorkeling

Our first snorkeling adventure was at Creole Rock, renowned as one of the island’s top snorkeling sites. We loved the way the guides, Jad and Lucas, took time to educate us about the marine life and made sure everyone felt comfortable, even if it was their first time snorkeling. The waters here are crystal clear, teeming with colorful fish, and the experience is quite relaxed—perfect for families or those who just want to dip their toes into underwater exploration. As one traveler noted, snorkeling was “good” and the guides “did a great job.”

Tintamarre Island for Turtle Sightings

Next up was Tintamarre Island, a small uninhabited island with pristine beaches and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles. The stop lasts around 45 minutes, and we’re told it’s a favorite for visitors wanting a more secluded, natural experience. The reviews consistently mention that the guides are attentive and eager to help you spot wildlife, making this a highlight for nature lovers. We loved the sense of being far from the crowds and snorkeling with the peaceful turtles.

Pinel Island and Beach Relaxation

After Tintamarre, the boat heads to Pinel Island, famed for its gentle beaches and the possibility of pet iguanas. During the 45-minute stop, you can relax on the sand, swim in calm waters, or venture to see the iguanas—an amusing experience if you’re brave enough. Many reviews mention that Pinel Island is a beautiful spot for relaxing and enjoying a laid-back vibe, which is exactly what we wanted after snorkel adventures.

Lunch at Grand Case

By mid-morning, it’s time for some local flavor. The tour includes a hot lunch at a well-known restaurant in Grand Case, often praised for its delicious, authentic dishes like BBQ ribs, chicken, or fish. The one-hour stop here gives plenty of time to savor the flavors and soak in the lively, friendly atmosphere. Reviewers have described the lunch as “extremely good,” with some noting it exceeded expectations considering the casual setting. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are available if you advise ahead of time.

Short Stops at Baie Longue and Maho Beach

The latter part of the tour features two quick stops that add to the fun and spectacle. At Baie Longue, you get a brief swim—just enough to cool off before heading to the famed Maho Beach. Known for its planes landing just overhead, Maho Beach offers a unique thrill—watching jets fly in close enough to almost touch. The 10-minute stop is perfect for photos and experiencing one of the island’s most iconic sights.

End of the Day and Return

The tour concludes back at the meeting point around 4:00 pm. Throughout the day, guides keep things lively with music, drinks, and local stories, making the journey memorable beyond just the sights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the $139 price tag, this trip packs in a lot: multiple snorkeling spots, a hearty meal, drinks, and guided commentary—all in one organized tour. It’s clear from reviews that many travelers feel they received excellent value, especially since the cost includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and lunch.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the flexible itinerary—with weather-dependent adjustments—means safety and comfort are prioritized. The guides are highly praised, with many reviews emphasizing their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness, which greatly enhances the experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book early — with over 20 bookings last month and a 5-star rating, spots fill quickly.
• Arrive prepared — bring sun protection, waterproof camera, and any personal medications.
• Dress comfortably — swimwear, shorts, and a cover-up are ideal.
• Dietary needs — inform the tour provider in advance if you need vegetarian options.
• Weather considerations — water can get bumpy or weather may affect stops; the guides adapt to ensure safety.
• Disembarkation info — cruise ship passengers should provide their docking details to help with scheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for cruise guests who want to make the most of their limited time ashore. It’s perfect for those interested in snorkeling, scenic beaches, and local cuisine, with enough flexibility to accommodate different physical fitness levels—though travelers should have moderate fitness and be comfortable with boat rides. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it appealing, especially if they appreciate well-organized tours with friendly guides and small groups.

The Sum Up

The Billy Bones St. Maarten Getaway offers a well-rounded, engaging day at sea that balances adventure with relaxation. From snorkeling with sea turtles at Tintamarre to enjoying a delicious local lunch, the tour captures the essence of the island’s natural beauty and friendly vibe. The knowledgeable guides, personalized service, and stunning stops make this a strong choice for cruise visitors wanting to see more than just the beaches.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s fun, authentic, and packed with memorable moments, this tour will not disappoint. Be prepared for some waves and bumpy rides—but that’s part of the adventure—and you’ll leave with plenty of stories and a camera full of great photos.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the meeting point, Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, making it very convenient for cruise guests.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point around 4:00 pm.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour supplies snorkeling gear with flotation devices so you can comfortably enjoy the underwater sights.

Can children participate?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

What’s the food like?
You’ll enjoy hot lunch at a local restaurant in Grand Case, with options that include barbecue ribs, chicken, fish, and vegetarian choices if requested.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather forces cancellation, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

What is the Marine Park/Port Fee?
There is an additional $10 per person fee for marine park or port entry, payable on the day of the tour.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendly demeanor, island knowledge, and helpfulness, which truly enriches the experience.

Whether you’re after snorkeling, scenic beaches, or just a fun day on the water, the Billy Bones tour promises a balanced, authentic taste of St. Maarten with plenty of thoughtful touches along the way.