Discovery Powerboat Tour ,Snorkeling with Turtles & BBQ Lunch

Discover the Best of St Maarten with a Thrilling Powerboat Tour

Imagine cruising along the coastlines of St Maarten and St Martin on a 7-hour powerboat adventure that combines stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and delicious local cuisine. Led by a professional captain, this tour takes you to some of the most iconic snorkeling spots like Tintamarre Island and Creole Rock, with the chance to swim alongside turtles — a highlight for many. All this, topped with a BBQ lunch at Grand Case, known as the island’s culinary hotspot, and an open bar to keep the spirits high.

What we love most about this experience is how it blends adventure with relaxation — you’re not just rushing from site to site, but truly soaking in the Caribbean’s natural beauty. The snorkeling gear is provided, so you can effortlessly explore the underwater world, and the professional crew makes sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Plus, the chance to watch airplanes land at Maho Beach adds that bit of excitement for aviation enthusiasts.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour has a maximum of 20 guests, which helps keep it intimate and personalized. However, it’s worth noting that the marine park fee of $6 isn’t included, so plan for that additional expense. This outing is ideal for on-island visitors looking for a fun, all-inclusive day out combining sightseeing, snorkelling, and good food in a relaxed Caribbean setting.

Key Points

• All-day adventure: 7 hours packed with snorkeling, beach visits, and a tasty BBQ.
• Best snorkeling spots: Tintamarre Island and Creole Rock offer clear waters and lively marine life.
• Swim with turtles: A special highlight for nature lovers and underwater photographers.
• Included amenities: Snorkeling gear, floating devices, unlimited drinks, lunch.
• Small group: Max 20 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Additional costs: Marine park fee of $6 per person.

Exploring the Discovery Powerboat Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, with a departure time of 9:00 am. The 7-hour itinerary offers plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or staying on the island, the schedule is designed to maximize your day with a full range of activities and scenic stops.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Tintamarre Island – The Royal Retreat

Your adventure kicks off with a stop at Tintamarre Island, a small, deserted island with a fascinating past. Once home to a king, navy, and airline, it’s now a tranquil spot, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and basking in the sun. We loved the way the waters around Tintamarre are incredibly clear, making it ideal for spotting marine life. The shallow bays, like Baie Blanche, are gentle enough for families or anyone wanting a relaxed start to their day.

Reviewers mention how “the beaches were clean and the water was clear,” and that the area is relatively uncrowded, giving a sense of untouched paradise. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos, especially of the vivid underwater life.

Pinel Island – Low-Key Relaxation

Next, you’ll visit Pinel Island in Orient Bay. It’s a favorite for its calm, shallow waters and soft sands—great for families or anyone seeking a slower pace. The Yellow Beach Restaurant offers a chance to sample local dishes or just unwind with a drink. With another 45 minutes here, you get a chance to dip your toes in the water, explore the island’s peaceful beaches, or simply relax.

Multiple reviews praise Pinel Island for its low-key, peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect contrast to the more active snorkeling stops.

Grand Case – The Culinary Capital

No Caribbean adventure is complete without experiencing local cuisine. The tour’s highlight is the BBQ lunch at Grand Case, renowned as the island’s “culinary capital.” You’ll get about an hour here, enough time to enjoy a tasty BBQ on the beach. The lunch is included, and many say it offers a satisfying taste of local flavors, adding tremendous value to the overall experience.

Mullet Bay or La Samanna – Beach Time

The last swim stop offers about 30 minutes on either Mullet Bay or near La Samanna. This relaxing beach segment allows you to unwind, soak up the sun, or take one last swim in the Caribbean’s inviting waters. Reviewers highlight how the beautiful beaches are often less crowded, giving a peaceful end to the day.

Plane Spotting at Maho Beach

Finally, just before returning, you’ll have a quick 10-minute stop at Maho Beach, famous for its planes landing directly overhead. This is a must-see if you enjoy aviation or just want a fun photo opportunity. The spectacle of huge aircraft swooping in so close makes for a memorable finale to your day.

Included and Extra Costs

The tour comes with snorkeling gear, floating devices, unlimited beer, soda, and water, plus a delicious BBQ lunch. The marine park fee of $6 per person isn’t included, so budget accordingly. It’s worth noting that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to reach the meeting point at Welfare Rd.

Experience Quality and Group Size

With a cap of 20 guests, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This is especially appreciated given the small-group nature, ensuring more personalized attention from the crew. The professional captain and staff aim to make everyone comfortable, whether you’re new to snorkeling or an experienced swimmer.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

One review highlights how “the beaches were clean and the water was clear,” emphasizing the quality of the snorkeling spots. Another mentions that “the trip was great with lots of island history shared along the way,” adding an educational element to the fun. The small group size and relaxed pace seem to resonate well with travelers, making it a memorable day for many.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $139, this tour packs quite a punch. You’re paying for a full day of diverse activities, including snorkeling, beach visits, a delicious local lunch, and unlimited drinks — all led by a knowledgeable crew. Compared to booking separate excursions or paying for individual activities, this all-inclusive package offers both convenience and value.

On top of that, the chance to swim with turtles and explore vibrant underwater environments makes it especially appealing for nature lovers and those eager to see marine life in its natural habitat. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and floating devices makes the experience accessible, even for beginners.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for on-island visitors who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It suits those who appreciate small-group experiences, want to enjoy Caribbean beaches in a relaxed setting, and are eager to snorkel in clear waters with the possibility of encountering turtles. It’s also perfect for families or groups seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and good food.

Suitable for

• First-time visitors wanting an overview of St Maarten’s highlights
• Snorkelers eager for a chance to see turtles and marine life
• Those looking for an all-inclusive, hassle-free day
• Travelers who enjoy small-group encounters for a more personal experience

Final Thoughts

The Discovery Powerboat Tour with Snorkeling and BBQ Lunch offers a well-rounded taste of St Maarten’s natural beauty and local flavor. The combination of stunning coastline views, clear waters, and delicious Caribbean cuisine makes it stand out as a memorable way to spend a day. The small group setting ensures everyone feels involved, and the professional crew keeps safety and comfort a priority.

While the tour does require some physical activity—mainly swimming and snorkeling—the experience is accessible to most with moderate fitness. The additional marine park fee, though small, is worth factoring into your budget. For those seeking a fun, scenic, and authentic Caribbean day, it’s a strong choice.

In essence, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with enough flexibility to enjoy the beaches, underwater life, and local culture. Whether you’re a honeymooner, family, or solo traveler, the memories you’ll create here will be well worth the price.

FAQs

How early should I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 58 days in advance, as it’s a popular choice and can fill up quickly.

What’s included in the price?
The $139 fee covers the boat tour, snorkeling gear, floating devices, unlimited beer, soda, and water, and a BBQ lunch.

Is there any extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, a marine park fee of $6 per person is not included in the ticket price.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, transportation to the meeting point at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, is not included, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the fun.

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

This powerboat adventure in St Maarten offers a lively, scenic, and authentic Caribbean experience that balances fun, discovery, and relaxation. For those eager to explore underwater worlds, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and see the island from a different perspective, it’s a day well spent.