Cristal Speed boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch St Maarten

Discover St Maarten from the Water with Cristal Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Beach Tour & Lunch

If you’re seeking a day that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural highlights on St Maarten, this Cristal Speed Boat tour delivers just that. For $139 per person, you get about six hours of lively boat rides, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and a delicious local lunch—all led by knowledgeable crew members who make sure everyone feels safe and included. The tour departs from Philipsburg at 9:30 am and packs in some of the most celebrated spots around the island, from reefs and turtles to lively beaches and airport views.

What we love about this experience are the well-organized stops that mix marine life encounters with relaxing beaches, all served up with the friendly vibe of the crew. Plus, the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and tasty sandwiches really boost the value—you’re set with everything you need for a fun day.

A consideration to keep in mind is that the speedboat ride can be quite bouncy and isn’t suitable for those with back issues. Also, the water clarity in St Maarten’s snorkeling spots may not match Aruba or Bonaire, but if you go in with that expectation, you’ll truly enjoy the marine encounters.

This tour suits active travelers, families, or couples eager to see a mix of beaches, reefs, and island culture without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. If you’re looking for a lively, all-in-one day on the water with plenty of opportunities for photos and memories, this will be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining snorkel stops, beach relaxation, and sightseeing
• Friendly crew and professional guides that enhance the experience
• All-inclusive experience with food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment
• Flexible and well-organized, with guaranteed on-time transfers and prompt responses
• Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with back problems
• Great value considering the full day of activities, food, and gear included

An In-Depth Look at the Cristal Speed Boat Experience

When we picture an ideal Caribbean day, it often looks like this: sun, sea, snacks, and a bit of adventure. This tour strikes a nice balance, making it clear that the crew really wants you to enjoy every moment. Starting from the dock at Maarten Marina in Philipsburg, the journey kicks off with a speedboat ride that’s exhilarating—fast, fun, and offering a taste of the island’s lively spirit. The speed itself is a highlight, as you’ll be flying over the water, feeling the breeze and soaking in the views.

Snorkeling at Creole Rock and Tintamarre Island

One of the tour’s star features is the snorkeling, with equipment provided so you can explore the vibrant reefs of Creole Rock and encounter sea turtles at Tintamarre Island. Based on reviews, snorkel conditions can vary, and some travelers note the water isn’t always as clear as in other Caribbean spots. However, the chance to swim alongside sea turtles is unforgettable. As one guest put it, “Snorkeling in St. Martin isn’t as good as Aruba or Bonaire, but if you go with that expectation, you’ll have a great time.”

The crew’s live commentary adds educational flavor, pointing out marine life and islands’ stories, which makes each stop more meaningful. The flotation noodles and life jackets are readily available, making the water activities accessible and safe.

Relaxing at Tintamarre and Pinel Islands

After snorkeling, the boat transports you to Tintamarre Island, where you can swim with sea turtles or simply relax on the soft sands—a peaceful respite from the ocean’s excitement. The waters around Pinel Island are perfect for unwinding, with plenty of space for sunbathing and gentle swimming.

Guests frequently mention the informal, friendly atmosphere on board, with comments like “everyone on this excursion was friendly,” and “Captain Thomas and crew gave us a great trip.” The boat’s design makes it easy to jump off the sides or climb back on, depending on your comfort level.

The Beach and Lunch Experience

Later in the day, the tour moves to Pinel Island, famous for its crystal-clear water and quiet beaches. Here, you can kick back, take photos, or enjoy a French gourmet sandwich included in the trip. The lunch is generally well-received, with many praising the quality and portion size of the sandwiches.

Maho Beach and the Airport View

To cap off the experience, the boat stops near Maho Beach, renowned for its close-up plane landings overhead. Watching jets zip just above your head is a uniquely iconic moment—one that adds a dash of excitement and a perfect photo opportunity.

The Crew and Overall Atmosphere

Throughout the day, the crew — especially guides like Captain Junior and Johan — are praised for their knowledgeability, friendliness, and professionalism. Their lively commentary, safety focus, and attentiveness make the whole trip smooth and enjoyable. Guests frequently mention feeling well cared for and having their questions answered.

The Practicalities and Value

Pricing at $139 per person includes snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and a full lunch — making it a solid value for a full day’s worth of adventures. The marine park/port fee of $10 is payable in cash at check-in, a small extra that’s common in Caribbean tours.

The group size is capped at 26, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guaranteed on-time pickup and return add to the ease of planning your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for adventurous couples, families with kids, or groups of friends who want a bright, lively day on the water. If you enjoy snorkeling, beaches, and fun stories about the islands, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially good for those who appreciate friendly guides, well-organized logistics, and a tour that combines multiple highlights into one.

While the snorkeling conditions might vary, the overall atmosphere, the delicious lunch, and the spectacular views ensure that most travelers leave with a smile—and plenty of photos.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting St Maarten who craves a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and island culture, this Cristal Speed Boat tour hits the mark. The day’s highlights—swimming with sea turtles, exploring reefs, relaxing on pristine beaches, and watching planes land at Maho—are delivered with enthusiasm and professionalism that simply makes the experience stand out.

The tour’s value is clear when you consider the included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the chance to see multiple iconic spots in just one day. It’s a great choice if you want to get the most out of your limited time on the island without the fuss of planning several separate activities.

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking fun, active, and immersive adventures. If you enjoy interactive water activities, lively guides, and scenic beaches, it’s hard to beat for a memorable Caribbean day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Philipsburg.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, the tour provides use of snorkeling gear, flotation noodles, and life jackets for all participants.

What is the price?
The cost is $139 per person, which includes lunch, drinks, snacks, and all gear, with a small marine park/port fee of $10 payable at check-in.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with back problems?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers but not recommended for people with back issues due to the speedboat ride’s bouncing nature.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Maarten Marina in Philipsburg and returns there at the tour’s conclusion.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, and swimwear for snorkeling and swimming stops. Towels are optional but recommended.

Whether you’re after marine adventures, scenic beaches, or a taste of local life, this tour offers a lively, well-rounded way to experience St Maarten from the water.