Private Full Day Boat Tour in St-Maarten

A Perfect Day on the Water in St. Maarten: Private Boat Tour Review

Imagine spending a full day on a comfortable catamaran, cruising between some of St. Maarten’s most beautiful spots with just your friends or family. For around $2,640 per group (up to 10 people), this private 7-hour boat tour offers an intimate way to explore the island’s turquoise waters, white sands, and vibrant marine life. The experience starts at Anse Marcel at 9:30 a.m., giving you plenty of time to soak up the sun, snorkel with sea turtles, and unwind with a cold drink.

What we love most about this trip is its customizable, relaxed vibe—it’s all about your group’s pace and interests. The boat is described as immaculately kept, with amazing views and plenty of space to chill. Plus, the crew is praised for being efficient, attentive, and easy-going, making the whole day feel seamless and enjoyable. Another highlight is the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters with sea turtles and sting rays, which is exactly the kind of authentic wildlife encounter many travelers crave.

A potential consideration is the cost—this isn’t a budget option. However, given the all-inclusive amenities like breakfast, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear, many feel it offers great value for a private, personalized experience. The tour is especially suited for groups looking for exclusivity and a day away from crowded beaches, perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible adventure on the water.

If you’re someone who dreams of cruising around St. Maarten with a small crew, stopping at secluded beaches, swimming with turtles, and enjoying delicious local food, this tour could be ideal. It’s a wonderful way to see the island’s natural beauty from a private vantage point, with all the comforts and conveniences you’d want for a full day at sea.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, offering personalized attention.
• Scenic stops: Tintamarre Island, Pinel Island, and Happy Bay showcase the island’s natural beauty.
• Snorkeling & marine life: Swim among sea turtles, sting rays, and enjoy crystal-clear waters.
• Inclusive amenities: Breakfast, snacks, drinks, WiFi, snorkeling gear, and floating mats are provided.
• Flexible schedule: About 7 hours, with plenty of time to relax and explore.
• Ideal for: Small groups, families, or friends seeking a private, authentic day on the water.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Tintamarre Island
After a roughly 45-minute cruise, you arrive at Tintamarre Island, a true gem for snorkeling and beach lovers. The water here is crystal-clear, perfect for spotting sea turtles, stingrays, and other marine life. The beach itself is white sand and wild, offering a peaceful retreat away from busier tourist spots. We appreciated how the crew made sure everyone felt comfortable in the water, which is especially helpful if some in your group are newer to snorkeling. The one-hour stop allows for plenty of time to swim and take photos.

Stop 2: Pinel Island
Next, a 30-minute boat ride takes you to Pinel Island, a favorite for its shallow, calm waters—ideal for relaxing and wading. Here, you can choose to grab lunch at one of the island’s restaurants or simply enjoy some leisure time on the beach. The reviews emphasize how the boat is remodeled and even nicer than before, suggesting the vessel offers a comfortable and stylish environment for your day at sea. The two-hour stop is long enough to enjoy a leisurely lunch or explore the island.

Stop 3: Happy Bay
The final stop is at Happy Bay, an uncrowded, pristine beach accessible only by boat or hiking. At just one minute from the boat, this spot is perfect for sunset views and peaceful reflection. We loved the idea of ending the day here, facing the sunset in a quiet, natural setting that’s off the beaten path. It’s a fitting finale that leaves you refreshed and relaxed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers significant value with features like breakfast, snacks, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soda, and WiFi onboard. All snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddles, and floating mats are provided, meaning you won’t need to worry about bringing your gear. The restroom on board adds convenience for such a long trip.

However, lunch is not included, so you might want to plan ahead if you prefer a specific meal or want to avoid the included restaurant options. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and tapas available at Pinel Island, which could be a highlight if you choose to dine there.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Reviewers consistently praise the crew for being friendly, efficient, and attentive. Robin and Sam, the guides mentioned, are described as responsive to needs, making the day feel tailored to each group. The music, WiFi, and drinks contribute to a fun, lively atmosphere, yet the boat remains peaceful and relaxing—a difficult balance to strike but one they seem to manage well.

Comfort and Convenience

The boat itself is described as beautiful and immaculate, with plenty of places to sit and lounge. The remodeled vessel provides a luxurious feel, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. The inclusion of WiFi is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share your experiences in real time or simply check in with loved ones. The private nature of the tour means no crowded groups, creating a sense of exclusivity and calm.

Timing and Group Size

Starting at 9:30 a.m. and lasting about 7 hours, the tour offers a relaxed pace, with enough time for swimming, eating, and sightseeing. The group size of up to 10 ensures intimacy but still allows for a lively, social vibe. Booking 12 days in advance suggests it’s popular but not overbooked, giving you enough time to plan.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $2,640 per group, this experience isn’t cheap, but considering it’s all private and includes meals, drinks, equipment, and WiFi, many find it worth the splurge. For travelers seeking a personalized, luxury experience on the water, the price reflects the exclusivity and quality on offer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is ideal for small groups or families wanting a tailored island adventure with minimal fuss. If you love the idea of snorkeling with sea turtles, relaxing on secluded beaches, and enjoying drinks and good company in a spacious, well-appointed boat, this tour checks all those boxes. It suits those who prefer private experiences over crowded excursions and value the chance to customize their day.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with leisure, as the stops are varied—ranging from wildlife encounters to serene beaches—and the pace is flexible.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in St. Maarten offers a luxurious yet authentic way to discover the island’s natural beauty from the water. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly crew, and inclusive amenities makes it a standout choice for groups seeking a personalized marine adventure.

While the price might be a barrier for some, many reviews highlight how the experience exceeds expectations—with exceptional views, great snorkeling, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you want to snorkel with sea turtles, enjoy a private beach, or simply soak up the sunshine on a floating lounge, this trip caters to your desires.

If you’re after an unforgettable, intimate day on the water, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort, privacy, and a touch of luxury during their island escapes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Anse Marcel, 97150, St. Martin, with a 9:30 a.m. start time.

How many people can join this private tour?
Up to 10 people can participate, making it suitable for small groups or families.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers breakfast, snacks, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soda, WiFi, snorkeling equipment, stand-up paddles, floating mats, and restroom use onboard.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are restaurants on Pinel Island where you can enjoy a meal.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is most suitable for travelers over 18 if they plan to consume alcohol. Otherwise, children can participate, but this depends on your group’s preferences.

How long is the total tour?
Approximate duration is 7 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, snorkel, and explore.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a camera. The boat provides snorkeling gear and floating mats, so no need to bring those unless you prefer your own.

This private boat tour offers a splendid way to see St. Maarten from a relaxed, personalized perspective. Perfect for small groups wanting an authentic, comfortable, and memorable day on the water.