Boomerang’s Best of St. Martin/Maarten: Swim with Turtles

Quick Overview of the Boomerang Best of St. Martin/Maarten: Swim with Turtles

If you’re after a memorable day on the water in St. Maarten, this full-day cruise aboard a power catamaran is hard to beat. For around $169 per person, you’ll sail to some of the island’s top spots, snorkel with sea turtles and rays, paddle around Pinel Island, and relax at picturesque Mullet Bay. The trip lasts about seven hours, making it a substantial but comfortable way to explore.

Two things we really love about this tour are the well-thought-out itinerary—offering a mix of snorkeling, relaxing, and scenery—and the inclusive nature of the experience, with lunch, drinks, and water toys all covered. Plus, the crew’s reputation for friendliness and attentiveness makes for a genuinely enjoyable day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the water conditions aren’t always ideal for swimming close to shore, especially if the water is rough. It’s a good idea to be flexible and perhaps plan for a backup activity if weather conditions aren’t perfect.

This tour suits travelers who love active outdoor experiences—like snorkeling and paddleboarding—paired with opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s especially popular for those wanting to see marine life, enjoy great food, and have an all-around fun day on the water.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with lunch, snacks, and drinks, offering excellent value.
• Multiple snorkeling stops, including the chance to see turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
• Water toys like paddleboards, floating lily pads, and snorkel gear included for fun and flexibility.
• Comfortable, spacious boat with a high-quality sound system and shade options.
• Friendly, attentive crew praised repeatedly for making the day special.
• Flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

An Honest Look at the Boomerang’s Best of St. Martin/Maarten: Swim with Turtles

When we think of a perfect day in the Caribbean, it often involves sailing on turquoise waters, discovering vibrant marine life, and sinking into the laid-back island vibe. This tour really delivers on those promises. The seven-hour cruise combines adventure, relaxation, and good food, all aboard a two-story, stable catamaran that’s designed for comfort and fun.

Starting Point and Journey Time

You’ll meet at the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, a convenient spot near Simpson Bay. The trip kicks off at 10:00 am, and with a cruising speed of 20 knots, the crew wastes no time heading straight for the best spots. This means more time snorkeling and less time in transit, which is a big plus for maximizing your day.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour is carefully coordinated to give you a good variety of experiences. The initial stop is Creole Rock, where the chances of spotting sea turtles, eagle rays, and dolphins are high. We loved the way the crew kept the energy lively while ensuring everyone felt comfortable, especially those who might be a little hesitant to jump in.

Next, the boat heads to Pinel Island, a favorite for its calm, shallow waters—perfect for paddleboarding and relaxing with iguanas wandering around. Here, you can float on the lily pad mat or snorkel with the supplied gear. The reviews are full of praise for this part, with many mentioning how much they enjoyed the peaceful surroundings and the chance to see marine life up close.

The third big highlight is Tintamarre Island, a remote spot where the waters are pristine and the turtles are often spotted. Guests frequently mention snorkeling with turtles and rays as a standout moment, often saying they appreciated the generous time spent in each location—around 45 minutes per stop.

The final stop is at Mullet Bay, a beautiful beach known for its soft sand and clear water. This is where you can unwind, snack on fresh tropical fruit and take one last dip before the cruise winds down.

Water Fun and Safety

The water toys—like paddleboards, snorkel gear, and floatation devices—are not just afterthoughts but thoughtfully included for all guests. You’ll love the flexibility to switch between snorkeling and paddleboarding at each stop, which keeps the day lively. A common theme in reviews is how well the crew manages safety, providing floatation vests for kids and adults alike, making it accessible even for non-swimmers.

Food and Drinks

The lunch is another highlight. You’ll enjoy a barbecue with Jamaican jerk and curry chicken skewers, garlic shrimp skewers, and a Greek pasta salad with feta—all served with bread and garlic bread. Many reviews rave about how delicious and generous the food is, often calling it a highlight of the trip.

Drinks flow freely from the open bar, which includes signature cocktails, beers, sodas, and juices. We appreciate the variety and quality—many guests mention how refreshing and well-mixed the cocktails are, and that the crew is attentive about keeping glasses full.

Crew and Atmosphere

Repeatedly, guests highlight the friendly, attentive, and professional nature of the crew, with particular praise for Toby, Angelo, and Deanna. The boat’s sound system pumps a good playlist, creating a lively but not overwhelming vibe. Some reviews note that the atmosphere is more party-oriented, which can be perfect if you’re looking for fun and dancing, but perhaps less ideal if you prefer a quiet, subdued experience.

The Experience’s Downsides

One potential drawback is that rough water can limit swimming close to shore, as some reviews mention. If the seas are choppy, the crew might modify the plan for safety reasons, which could disappoint those eager to swim in calmer waters. Also, the marine park fee of $6 isn’t included in the ticket price, and you’ll need to bring your own towels if you want to dry off comfortably after snorkeling.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers who love snorkeling and marine life, food lovers who enjoy a hearty BBQ, and anyone wanting a fun, social atmosphere on the water. It’s particularly popular with repeat visitors, who appreciate the well-organized itinerary and friendly crew that consistently receive glowing reviews.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $169, this experience bundles a lot of what makes the Caribbean special—stunning scenery, marine encounters, lively atmosphere, and tasty food—into one package. The fact that much of the gear and water toys are included means you won’t be surprised by extra costs. It’s a full, well-rounded day that focuses on fun, relaxation, and good company.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day on the water filled with snorkeling, paddleboarding, delicious food, and a lively crew, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy social, activity-rich trips with a good mix of adventure and chill time. The positive reviews reflect consistent high quality and friendly service, making it a reliable choice for your St. Maarten visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 10:00 am and lasts about seven hours, returning to the meeting point in the early evening.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour provides floatation vests and the water conditions are generally calm, especially around Pinel Island, making it manageable for non-swimmers.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers lunch, snacks, an open premium bar, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, floating lily pads, and floatation vests.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a marine park fee of $6 per person is payable on-site.

Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a restroom for guest comfort.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring towels if they wish to dry off after snorkeling. Since Wi-Fi isn’t available onboard, plan accordingly.

Can cruise ship passengers join?
Absolutely, as long as your all-aboard time is 6:30 pm or later. The tour operates in a window that accommodates cruise schedules.

In essence, this full-day adventure around St. Maarten offers a lively, well-organized way to explore the island’s best underwater and coastal sights. With friendly staff, delicious food, and ample water-based activities, it caters to travelers eager to make the most of a day at sea. Whether you’re snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing with a cold cocktail, this tour brings the Caribbean’s vibrant spirit directly to you.