A detailed look at the St Maarten Motorboat Cruise: Long Bay, Creole Rock, and Tintamarre Island
Imagine cruising along St. Maarten’s coast on a sleek, 39-foot motorboat, with the wind in your hair and the promise of snorkel stops and scenic views waiting ahead. For around $125 per person, this 6.5-hour adventure takes you to some of the most iconic and secluded spots. Departing from Simpson Bay, the trip is flexible — usually circumnavigating the island from April to October, or sticking close to the west coast during the winter months when seas can get a little choppy.
What we love about this tour is the chance to snorkel at Creole Rock, a favorite for its vibrant underwater life, and explore Tintamarre Island, known for swimming with sea turtles. Plus, the extra touch of being served beverages on board makes it feel like a relaxed boat party with friends. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup — so you’ll want to plan your transportation to the starting point in Simpson Bay.
This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic island scenery, fun snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe. Families with teenagers especially rave about the friendly guides and the chance to see sunken aircraft or submarine wrecks. If you’re after a memorable, active day on the water — with plenty of chances to relax and indulge — this experience will likely suit you well.
Key Points
- Comprehensive island exploration within 6.5 hours, including multiple snorkeling stops and scenic views.
- Snorkel gear and drinks are included, making it a convenient and fun all-in-one experience.
- Knowledgeable crew enhances the trip with safety, local tips, and friendly service.
- Flexible itinerary based on weather, with most trips focusing on calmer west coast waters during winter.
- Ideal for families and snorkel lovers who want authentic experiences and great value.
- Does not include hotel pickup, so plan transportation accordingly.
Planning more time in St Maarten? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An in-depth exploration of the St Maarten Motorboat Cruise
When you first step onto the Santino, a custom-built 39-foot motorboat, you immediately get a sense of adventure. The boat’s size strikes a good balance — spacious enough to be comfortable, yet not so large that it loses that intimate, personal vibe. Meeting the captain and crew, you’ll notice how they prioritize safety, fun, and knowledge, elevating what could be a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.
Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do
Start at Simpson Bay: The tour kicks off early at 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day’s highlights. Once aboard, you’ll head out with a small group (max 28 travelers), which keeps things friendly and personalized. On most trips, the route includes stops at Long Bay, Creole Rock, Pinel Island, and Tintamarre Island, with the possibility of circumnavigating the entire island from April to October.
Tintamarre Island: This is often the first stop, and it’s a highlight for many. Surrounded by pristine waters, Tintamarre offers a chance to swim, snorkel, and perhaps even spot sea turtles. One reviewer raved, “What a fantastic boat ride. We saw stingrays, flying fish, sea turtles, gorgeous beaches, and a stunning view of St. Martin from the sea.” The boat’s crew, often led by Captain Roy, are praised for their friendly, safety-conscious approach.
Creole Rock: Known as a top snorkeling spot, Creole Rock features vibrant reefs and abundant marine life. The shallow waters make it accessible, even for less experienced snorkelers. Many reviews mention snorkeling above sunken wrecks like a helicopter and submarine, adding a sense of adventure and discovery.
Pinel Island: Here, you can opt for a quick swim or relax on the beach. While snacks or lunch aren’t included, many travelers bring their own or plan to buy local lolos (small food shacks) on land. “The food in Grand Case at one of the lolos was exquisite,” a traveler noted, emphasizing the island’s culinary charm.
Long Bay: The final stop often includes a swim at Long Bay, a quiet, beautiful stretch of sand perfect for unwinding after snorkeling. The shallow waters and calm waves are ideal for relaxing, making it a favorite among families.
What To Expect on the Boat
Beverages are plentiful — beer, sodas, rum punch, fruit punch, and bottled water — turning the cruise into a floating happy hour. Snorkel gear and noodles are included, so you can easily glide over reefs. The boat also features a small marine toilet, which is handy but not luxurious, so managing expectations is wise.
A helpful tip from reviewers is to bring a Ziploc bag for valuables, especially since the tour can get a bit wet. This added layer of protection ensures your camera, phone, and wallet stay dry during the snorkeling or when waves splash over the boat.
The Experience and the Crew
What truly elevates this tour are the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew. Multiple reviews mention how guides are attentive, informative, and safety-minded, creating a vibe of relaxed confidence. “Roy and his mate are top notch,” said one, “We have done this trip 7 times and it never disappoints.”
Passengers frequently comment on the crew’s familiarity with the island’s waters and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, whether it’s explaining the marine life or sharing stories about the island’s history. This personal touch turns what could be just a sightseeing cruise into a memorable storytelling adventure.
While you're exploring St Maarten, here are other experiences we've looked into
Value for Money
At $125 per person, considering the inclusions of snorkel gear, drinks, and a well-planned itinerary, this tour offers excellent value. The trip’s length (over six hours) allows ample time to explore, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the opportunity to see sea turtles, flying fish, and even aircraft wrecks, makes it more than just a boat ride — it’s a mini adventure.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Simpson Bay. Also, because the trip can be wet at times, travelers should pack valuables in waterproof bags and might want to bring a towel or change of clothes.
Weather can influence the route — during winter months with stronger winds, the boat typically sticks to calmer waters on the west coast — so if you’re hoping to circumnavigate the island, booking during the right season helps.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This cruise suits families, snorkel enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet activity-packed day on the water. It’s especially popular among travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops. If you’re traveling with teenagers or kids, they’re likely to love the underwater sights and the chance to see sea turtles.
The Sum Up: Who’s This Tour Best For?
If you’re seeking a well-organized, affordable, and fun day on the water, this motorboat cruise checks all the boxes. It offers a great mix of snorkeling, scenic views, and laid-back island stops that appeal to a wide range of travelers. The attentive crew and inclusive drinks make it feel like a special outing rather than just a sightseeing trip.
For those wanting to explore remote islands, see marine life up close, and enjoy excellent company, this tour delivers. It’s particularly good for adventurous families, first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, or even seasoned island hoppers who want to revisit favorite spots with a different perspective.
While it doesn’t include hotel transport or gourmet dining, the value, variety, and friendly atmosphere make it a memorable way to experience St. Maarten from the water.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
Snorkel gear, beverages (beer, sodas, rum punch, fruit punch), bottled water, and a small marine toilet are included. Lunch is not included but can be bought on land.
How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 6.5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the starting point in Simpson Bay.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Aqua Mania Adventures in Billy Folly Road, Simpson Bay.
Are there any age restrictions?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but specific age limits are not mentioned. The tour is family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy snorkeling.
Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the meeting point in Simpson Bay.
What should I bring?
Bring a waterproof Ziploc bag for valuables, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Consider bringing extra cash for food or souvenirs on land.
What’s the weather like?
The tour is weather-dependent. During calmer months, it can circumnavigate the island; in winter, it sticks to calmer west coast waters.
Can I snorkel at Creole Rock?
Yes, it’s a popular snorkeling spot with abundant marine life, and many travelers rave about the experience, including seeing underwater wrecks.
Is the trip suitable if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely. There are plenty of scenic stops, beach time, and drinks, so non-snorkelers can still enjoy the day.
This boat tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of St. Maarten’s best snorkeling spots, remote beaches, and stunning coastline — perfect for those who want a flexible, fun-filled day on the water.