St Maarten Boat Tour with Lunch, Drinks, & Snorkeling Gear

Exploring St. Maarten by Boat: A Relaxed, Snorkeler’s Paradise

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the Caribbean Sea while discovering some of St. Maarten’s most beautiful spots, this half-day boat tour offers an excellent mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic scenery. Priced at about $175 per person, it lasts roughly four hours, and it’s perfect for those who want to see the island from the water, snorkel some of the best spots, and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

What makes this tour special? First, the small group size—capped at 12—means more personalized attention from your captain, often making the experience feel more like a private cruise. Second, the inclusion of lunch and drinks right on board turns a simple boat ride into a true Caribbean feast, with plenty of local flavor.

That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re primarily interested in a full-day adventure or extensive sightseeing, this shorter trip might feel a bit limited. However, for those wanting a taste of the island’s marine beauty paired with comfort and convenience, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic beaches and snorkeling rather than high-energy excursions.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Snorkeling at Creole Rock offers some of the best marine observation on the island.
• Multiple stops at iconic beaches like Baie Rouge and Mullet Bay provide fantastic sand and surf experiences.
• All-inclusive with lunch and drinks adds significant value, turning the trip into a relaxed mini-vacation.
• Flexible timing options (morning or afternoon) accommodate different schedules.
• Capped at 12 travelers, which keeps the experience personalized and enjoyable.

A Practical Overview of the St. Maarten Boat Tour

This tour invites you to spend a few hours exploring the stunning coastline and marine life that make St. Maarten a Caribbean gem. Starting from the Yacht Club Port De Plaisance in Cole Bay, you’ll climb aboard a comfortable boat with your small group, led by a captain attentive to your preferences.

For about four hours, you’ll visit four key spots: Creole Rock, Baie Rouge, Long Beach, and Mullet Bay. The trip can be booked for either the morning or the afternoon, giving flexibility to fit your schedule. The price of $175 includes all snorkel gear, the lunch spread, and drinks—both alcohol and soft drinks—making this a hassle-free way to enjoy your day.

Why We Like This Tour

One of the biggest draws is the personalized attention due to the small group size. As a reviewer noted, Captain Sean “gave a great tour for just my wife and I,” tailoring the stops to their interests and alerting them to what to expect, including a warning about choppier seas on the return. That level of care is rare and makes the experience feel more like a friendly, private outing rather than a crowded tourist trap.

Another highlight is the snorkeling experience. Creole Rock, the first stop, is described as “the best snorkeling on the Island,” a true highlight for marine lovers. The abundance of fish and coral here makes it worth bringing your mask and snorkel gear, which are provided. The fact that admission is free at these spots adds to the great value of the tour.

The avenue of beaches visited—Baie Rouge, Long Beach, and Mullet Bay—each offers a different flavor of the island’s seaside charm. Baie Rouge, in particular, is noted as “a great place for snorkeling close to the rocks,” while Mullet Bay is praised for its beauty and surf opportunities.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Creole Rock – Known as a maritime highlight, this spot offers some of the most vibrant underwater life around the island. Expect to see colorful fish and corals, making it a favorite for snorkeling enthusiasts. The review highlights how this stop “kicks off” the adventure on a high note.

Stop 2: Baie Rouge – The tour then heads to this long, sandy beach in the Lowlands area. The north end near the rocks is perfect for snorkeling, and you might find yourself sunbathing or swimming in the calm, clear waters. This stop is described as “a great place for snorkeling,” perfect for a quick dip and some relaxing beach time.

Stop 3: Long Beach – Located in Terres Basses, Long Beach offers wide, inviting sands and a quieter, less crowded environment. It’s the first French side beach travelers encounter traveling north from the border, providing a lovely photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs.

Stop 4: Mullet Bay – On the Dutch side, this spot is famous for its aesthetic beauty and surf. The mention of “good north swell” suggests that if you’re into surfing or just want to enjoy stellar views, this is the ideal final stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers snorkel gear, lunch, bottled water, and soft drinks, making it an all-inclusive experience. The $6 per person nature reserve fee is payable in cash at check-in, a small extra to keep in mind.

While transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, the meeting location at the Yacht Club Port De Plaisance is easily accessible for most travelers. Tipping your crew—15-20%—is encouraged, considering the attentive service.

Authenticity and Value

This tour isn’t about adrenaline or long, complicated itineraries. Instead, it offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to see some of the best beaches and snorkeling spots around St. Maarten. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one person calling it “time well spent,” and praising Captain Sean for customizing the experience.

The price point reflects the quality and inclusiveness—lunch, drinks, snorkel gear, and a small group—making it a good value for travelers who want comfort and a personal touch. Compared to larger, more crowded excursions, this trip offers a more intimate and less hurried experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who prefers quality over quantity, seeking an authentic Caribbean experience, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for snorkelers, beach lovers, and those wanting a relaxed day with beautiful scenery and friendly service. Travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized attention will find this especially appealing.

This trip may not suit those looking for a full-day adventure or highly energetic activities, but it’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or small groups wanting a taste of the island’s maritime beauty without the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, the tour starts at the Yacht Club Port De Plaisance, and you’ll need to arrange your own transportation there.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, with four stops, each lasting about 45 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers snorkel gear, lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. There’s a small $6 cash fee for the nature reserve, payable at check-in.

Can I choose morning or afternoon tours?
Yes, you can select either a morning or an afternoon departure, depending on your schedule.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, but snorkeling requires some comfort in the water. Children or non-swimmers should be supervised and may want to bring flotation devices.

Are there any extra costs?
Apart from the nature reserve fee and gratuities, no other costs are included. Tips for the crew are recommended at 15-20%.

This boat tour offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation, snorkeling, and island scenery, all within a manageable four-hour window. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with great memories of the Caribbean’s natural beauty, especially if you value personalized service, authentic beaches, and easygoing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just want to dip your toes in the water, this trip promises a relaxed, enjoyable slice of St. Maarten.