Private Full-Day Speed Boat Tour of St. Martin with Luxury Lunch

A Private Full-Day Speed Boat Adventure Around St. Martin: What to Expect

Imagine cruising along the Caribbean coast on a sleek, private speed boat, with the wind in your hair and some of the most beautiful scenery in the region unfolding before you. This full-day tour takes you to unspoiled islands like Pinel and Tintamarre, highlights the island’s best snorkeling spots, and offers a luxurious lunch at a renowned beachside restaurant. It’s designed for up to 10 guests, making it an intimate way to explore the natural beauty of St. Martin and its surrounding islands.

What we love most about this experience is its personalized nature—your guide will tailor the route to your interests, whether that’s snorkeling with sea turtles or relaxing on a secluded beach—and the wealth of scenic views you’ll enjoy from the water. The opportunity to see Friar’s Bay cows (almost always) and swim in front of a luxury hotel like Belmond La Samanna adds genuine local flavor and exclusivity.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost, which is quite steep at over two thousand dollars for a group, but when you factor in the all-inclusive nature of meals, drinks, and private guide, it can be well worth it for those seeking a luxury, customizable day at sea.

This tour suits travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and authentic scenic experiences. If you’re eager for a day that combines snorkeling, stunning views, and a touch of luxury, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Includes a gourmet beachside lunch and beverages
• Snorkeling with sea turtles and visits to less crowded islands
• Scenic views of St. Martin from the water
• Ideal for small groups up to 10 people seeking exclusivity
• All fees and taxes included, simplifying budgeting

In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Speed Boat Tour of St. Martin

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day Packed with Highlights

The tour kicks off at Anse Marcel at 9:00 am, a quiet, picturesque spot on the French side of the island. From here, your guide—likely a knowledgeable local—sets the tone for the day, offering insights into the island’s landscape as you set sail.

Pinel Island is first, and it’s a charming spot on the French side with a stunning view back to St. Martin. Here, we loved the chance to swim or snorkel in calm waters and meet the iguanas that roam freely, adding a bit of wildlife charm to your morning. The hour spent here is enough to enjoy the scenery and maybe snap some memorable photos.

Next, you’ll cruise to Tintamarre Island, renowned for its sea turtle encounters. While on land, you can also explore the terracotta rock formations or take a short hike. The fact that snorkeling here is free of charge makes it an excellent spot for nature lovers. From reviews, we know many find the sea turtle sightings to be a particular highlight, making this stop well worth the trip.

Grand Case is not just a culinary hub but also home to Creole Rock, the island’s top snorkeling spot. Expect to spend about two hours here—plenty of time to swim around the rock, admire the underwater life, and enjoy the vibrant marine environment. The tour’s flexibility means if you have a specific spot in mind, your guide might accommodate that.

After a hearty lunch at Rainbow Café, perched right on the beach, it’s time to relax at Happy Bay. Here, you’ll unwind on a huge floating mattress—a favorite feature among guests—and soak up the sun. The 45-minute stop is perfect for chilling out and enjoying the clear waters.

The next stop is Friar’s Bay, a surprisingly scenic beach where you might spot cows grazing on the sand—a quirky, memorable sight that’s almost always seen. This stop offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for snapping pictures and soaking in the local scene.

Passing by Long Bay, you’ll get a glimpse of Belmond La Samanna, a luxurious hotel known for its striking rock formations and crystal waters. The tour includes a swim in front of the hotel—a chance to enjoy some of the most beautiful water on the island.

Finally, you’ll visit Anse Marcel, a peaceful bay framed by lush mountains, providing a tranquil end to your adventure.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Snorkeling with sea turtles at Tintamarre and Creole Rock is a standout, offering a rare chance to see these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. The scenic boat ride itself provides incredible views of St. Martin’s coastline, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The luxury lunch at Rainbow Café is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to enjoy fresh, local dishes in a relaxed beach setting, making the experience feel indulgent but authentic. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages and bottled water ensures you’ll stay refreshed throughout the day.

Why This Tour Might Not Be for Everyone

While the experience is tailored and intimate, the cost might be a barrier for some travelers, especially considering it’s a private tour with a group price. Also, weather-dependent cancellations are a consideration—if a storm rolls in, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for small groups or couples who want a personalized, luxury experience. If you appreciate scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and a relaxed pace, you’ll feel right at home. Families with older children or groups of friends seeking a memorable day on the water will also find this tour appealing.

The True Value of This Experience

When evaluating the price of $2,333.65 for up to ten people, the key is what’s included: private transportation, all meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a customized itinerary. For those seeking a luxury, flexible, and private day exploring the lesser-known parts of St. Martin, it offers considerable value.

The guides’ local knowledge and the opportunity to choose your stops make this more than just a boat ride—it’s a curated day designed around your interests, with insider access to hidden gems and stunning views.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Sightings

Guests frequently mention the chance to see cows on Friar’s Bay, a quirky and memorable aspect that adds a splash of local flavor. The snorkeling with turtles is another clear highlight, with reviews emphasizing how many guests find it magical.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a private, flexible, water-based adventure that combines scenic beauty, snorkeling, and a touch of luxury, this tour offers a well-rounded day out. Its personalized nature and inclusion of meals and drinks make it a practical choice for those who want to maximize their time without worrying about logistics.

However, if your budget is tight or you prefer larger group tours with more structured itineraries, this might feel a bit costly. Still, for travelers craving a special, intimate day at sea, this experience delivers a blend of comfort, adventure, and authenticity.

Who Should Book?

Couples, small groups, or families looking for an exclusive feel, with the flexibility to customize their day, will find this tour appealing. Nature lovers eager to snorkel with turtles and explore quiet islands will also appreciate the curated stops.

FAQ

Is this tour private? Yes, this is a private tour for your group only, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the price? The tour includes the guided boat trip, snorkeling equipment, floatation mattress, lunch at Rainbow Café, alcoholic beverages, water, and all fees and taxes.

Can I customize the stops? Yes, the guide will try to include any specific spots you’d like to visit, depending on your preferences.

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

How long is each stop? Typical stops are between 45 minutes to 2 hours, giving you time to snorkel, relax, and explore.

Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for older children comfortable with snorkeling and boat rides.

How early should I book? On average, it’s booked about 10 days in advance, so securing your spot early ensures availability.

What’s the meeting point? The tour begins at Anse Marcel at 9:00 am, with the tour ending back at the same spot.

Are meals included? Yes, a full lunch at Rainbow Café is part of the package, along with drinks.

To sum it up, this private speed boat tour of St. Martin offers a luxurious, flexible way to explore some of the most beautiful and lesser-known spots of the island. With its mix of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and excellent food, it’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a personalized, memorable day on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in the Caribbean’s natural beauty, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience that emphasizes comfort, authenticity, and adventure.