A Private St Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour that Offers Flexibility and Personal Touches

When you step off your cruise ship in St Maarten, the last thing you want is to be rushed through a cookie-cutter tour. That’s where this Private Island Sightseeing Tour shines. For around $600 per group (up to 10 people), you get about five hours of tailored exploration, visiting highlights on both the Dutch and French sides of the island—if you choose—and enjoying the personal attention of a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes pickup from the cruise port, a private vehicle, and beverages, making it a convenient and comfortable way to see the best of the island.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the flexibility to customize your itinerary. Whether you want to lounge on beaches, browse markets, or take in panoramic views, your guide can adapt the stops accordingly. And because it’s private, there’s no waiting for other groups or feeling rushed. A couple of things to keep in mind: the price is per group, so if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it’s a premium but fair deal considering the personalized experience. Also, the trip is essentially a five-hour window—so planning your preferred stops in advance helps maximize your time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love personalized service, want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of large bus groups, and enjoy an island experience tailored to their interests. Families, couples, or small groups of friends will find it particularly rewarding, especially since the reviews highlight guides who are personable, knowledgeable, and eager to cater to your specific wishes.

Key Points

Flexible, customizable itinerary allows you to visit what interests you most.
Private guide and vehicle ensure a personal, relaxed experience.
Multiple scenic stops on both Dutch and French sides, including beaches, viewpoints, and markets.
Excellent for families or small groups who want to tailor their day without feeling rushed.
Cost reflects personalized service but offers great value for a private tour.
Highly praised guides make the experience memorable and informative.

Exploring the Highlights of the Tour

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in St Maarten

An Intimate and Flexible Experience

One of the biggest advantages of this private tour is its customizability. Unlike large group excursions, which follow a fixed schedule, this experience lets you choose what you want to see. Whether it’s relaxing on Orient Beach, exploring the Marigot Market, or enjoying panoramic views from Cole Bay Hill, your guide, Domingo or Clyde, will adapt the route.

Multiple reviews praise guides who are knowledgeable and personable. For example, Elaine, a native guide, was described as “amazing” for her willingness to answer questions and share local insights. Guests appreciated guides who called ahead, printed schedules, and went beyond just the typical stops—these personal touches can make your day truly special.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Stop 1: Oyster Pond
Starting at Oyster Pond provides a gentle beginning with stunning water views. As one reviewer noted, this area is perfect for creating your own schedule—whether you want to soak in the scenery or stop for a quick photo.

Stop 2: Orient Bay
This is one of the most famous beaches, renowned for its lively atmosphere, soft sands, and inviting waters. Several reviews mention enjoying the chance to swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the views. The guide can help you decide how long to linger here, making sure you make the most of your time.

Stop 3: Great Bay Beach
Located in Philipsburg, this beach offers classic Caribbean scenery with the added bonus of seeing both the Dutch and French sides. Reviewers appreciate the photo opportunities and the chance to see the coastline from different angles. It’s also a great spot for a quick snack or just a breath of fresh sea air.

Stop 4: Marigot Market
For those interested in local culture and shopping, the open market in Marigot is a highlight. Reviewers loved browsing stalls, sampling local goods, and watching planes fly overhead at Sunset Beach. This stop is perfect for a relaxed stroll, some souvenir hunting, or just soaking in the colorful atmosphere.

The Experience of Watching Planes at Sunset Beach

A special feature that many find unforgettable is visiting Sunset Beach to watch planes fly in close overhead. This unique spectacle creates an adrenaline rush and offers superb photo ops, as several reviewers have pointed out. “The planes are very close,” said one guest, making it a must-do if you’re a fan of aviation or just want a fun, thrilling experience.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in an air-conditioned private vehicle, which makes the day comfortable, even in warm weather. The group size is limited to ten, ensuring you have space to relax and chat with your guide. The reviews repeatedly mention the cleanliness and comfort of the vehicle, and the beverages supplied keep everyone refreshed throughout the tour.

While you're exploring St Maarten, here are other experiences we've looked into

Tips From Reviews and Our Experience

Timing is everything: Starting at 10:00 am allows you to beat some of the crowds and make the most of the daylight hours.
Custom requests are welcomed: If you want to spend extra time at a particular beach or market stall, your guide is usually happy to accommodate.
Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked around 70 days ahead, especially in peak season.
Bring your camera: The views, beaches, and airport spectacle provide plenty of photo opportunities.

What the Price Gets You

At $600 per group, this tour offers considerable value given the personalized service, private vehicle, and flexible itinerary. Compared to large group excursions, where you might see fewer sights and feel rushed, this is a more relaxed way to get a comprehensive snapshot of the island. Plus, the reviews highlight guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip both fun and educational.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private island tour is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized adventure. If you appreciate the freedom to customize your day and want to avoid the crowds, you’ll find this very satisfying. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to pack in a variety of sights—beaches, markets, lookout points—in a single, comfortable outing.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a tailored, stress-free way to explore St Maarten, this private tour offers genuine value. You’ll get the chance to see the island’s best beaches, markets, and viewpoints with a guide who truly cares about your experience. It’s ideal for those who want to control their pace, enjoy intimate insights into the island, and capture plenty of memorable photos.

While it’s a bit pricier than bus tours, the personal touch, flexibility, and comfort make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a few hours, this tour can turn an ordinary stop into a personalized highlight of your Caribbean trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, giving you plenty of time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

Is pickup offered at the cruise port?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise port, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to choose stops like beaches, markets, or scenic viewpoints based on your interests.

What is included in the price?
The price covers port pickup and drop-off, a private air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and beverages. Additional attractions or entrance fees are not included.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Specific age restrictions aren’t specified, but it’s family-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
Most bookings are fully refundable if canceled due to poor weather. The tour requires good weather, so if conditions are unsuitable, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Exploring St Maarten with a private guide means you get to see what interests you most, at your own pace, with local insights that bring the island’s character to life. It’s a smart way to turn a cruise port stop into a personal adventure that’s both relaxed and memorable.