St Maarten Shore Excursion: Snorkeling and Speed Boat Tour

Imagine zooming across the turquoise waters of St Maarten on a lively speedboat, with the wind in your hair and a drink in hand, exploring some of the most beautiful spots the island has to offer. For about six hours, this tour takes you from Philipsburg to a series of scenic stops including Creole Rock for snorkeling, Tintamarre Island for turtle encounters, and Pinel Island for relaxing or hiking. Guided by knowledgeable crew members, and with unlimited drinks on board, it’s a fun, flexible way to see the island’s highlights in a short time.

Starting at just $129 per person, this experience is especially appealing to cruise passengers who want to maximize their time without the stress of overbooked shore excursions. Two things we particularly love? First, the small group size and personable guides, which create a friendly, personalized atmosphere; second, the well-chosen stops that combine natural beauty with some of the best snorkeling around. A possible consideration? The tour involves swimming and some walking, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended if you want to fully enjoy all activities.

This tour suits travelers who crave a balance of adventure and relaxation, and who appreciate authentic encounters with marine life and island scenery. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or just want a day of fun on the water, it’s a lively, well-organized trip that delivers on its promises.

Key Points

• Flexible, small-group experience with attentive guides
• Multiple stops including Creole Rock, Tintamarre, and Pinel Island
• All-inclusive drinks—rum punch, beer, soda, and water
• Snorkeling gear and floating devices provided for easy exploration
• Time-efficient, with worry-free return guarantee for cruise schedules
• Authentic insights into St Maarten’s waters and landmarks

A Close Look at the Experience

When we think about what makes a shore excursion memorable, it’s often the combination of stunning scenery, good company, and a sense of adventure. This tour hits all those notes, starting right at the dock in Philipsburg, where you meet your crew and board a comfortable speedboat. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the boat feels cozy, making it easy to ask questions and chat with guides who are clearly passionate about the island.

Itinerary Breakdown

Creole Rock:
This is the star snorkeling spot, and for good reason. A 45-minute stop here offers a peek into a vibrant undersea world. According to many reviews, snorkelers are able to see small fish and colorful coral, and the experience is often described as “teeming with marine life.” Guides help ensure everyone gets comfortable with the gear, and floating devices make it easy to relax while observing the underwater scene.

Tintamarre Island:
This uninhabited island is a favorite for both its tranquility and the chance to swim alongside local sea turtles. The boat anchors nearby, and the protected waters are calm, inviting snorkelers to glide around in search of turtle friends. Reviewers like Cathy_S mention, “Swim, snorkel, sunbathe—feel like a king or queen for the day,” emphasizing the relaxed vibe here. Keep in mind, the marine park fee of $6 per person is not included in the price, but it’s a small cost for access to such pristine waters.

Pinel Island:
The next stop offers a gentle contrast—a laid-back island with shallow waters perfect for unwinding. You can sit in the shallows with a refreshing drink from the onboard bar, or explore the tiny island on foot. Many reviews mention the delicious sandwiches and the friendly, local atmosphere, making this a favorite for families or those seeking quiet downtime. Plus, the soft sand beaches are perfect for a little sunbathing or a stroll.

Optional Stops and Highlights:
Other stops include Mullet Bay Beach for a quick swim, and Maho Beach, where you can watch aircraft land just overhead—a spectacle that delights many. The boat also pauses near a lively BBQ restaurant at Grand Case, where you can choose to enjoy a tasty, reasonably priced lunch if you wish.

What You’ll Experience

Beyond the stops, the real value lies in the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach. Many reviews praise guides like Captain Nick, Sammy, Junior, and Miguel for their attentiveness and humor. They share interesting tidbits about the island and waters, making each stop more engaging. The onboard bar keeps drinks flowing—rum punch, beers, soft drinks, and water—creating a lively, social atmosphere.

Many travelers loved the small group size and the feeling of being on a personal adventure, as one reviewer says, “felt more like being on a boat with friends than with a big tour group.” The boat itself is described as well-maintained and comfortable, with plenty of space to move around.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts roughly six hours, with the first departure at 9:00 am. It’s designed for cruise passengers with a worry-free guarantee that you’ll return to the ship on time. The tour operates with a minimum of six guests, and a maximum of 20, ensuring a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

A couple of practical notes:
– Snorkeling gear, floating devices, and drinks are included, but the $6 marine park fee is extra.
– While the tour is suitable for most, a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. Swimmers should be comfortable in open water, and those with mobility issues might want to check with the operator beforehand.
– Lunch is optional at an additional cost of $14, with a well-regarded BBQ offered at Grand Case.
– The tour is not available for pregnant women, and service animals are allowed.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the day effortless and fun. The flexibility to choose what stops to spend more time at, combined with the stunning scenery and marine life, makes this a memorable adventure. For those who love snorkeling, the clear waters at Creole Rock and Tintamarre are a highlight. For travelers craving a relaxed beach day, Pinel Island offers gentle shallow waters and soft sands.

Value-wise, the all-inclusive drinks, snorkel gear, and small-group approach contribute to a sense of getting more than you pay for. Considering the cost of private boat rentals or organized excursions, it’s quite reasonable for a full day of island exploration, especially when many reviews describe it as “the best shore tour we’ve ever taken.”

Authentic Encounters

One of the best parts? The authentic interaction with local guides who share their insights about the island, its waters, and marine life. Many travelers mention how guides like Anthony and Oxana went above and beyond—spraying sunscreen or helping patch a rip—adding a personal touch that transforms a generic tour into a memorable experience.

The Experience’s Downside

While many rave about the experience, some mention minor inconveniences. Fins sometimes run out, and the marine park fee is an extra expense, but these are small compared to the overall value. The boat ride can be bumpy in windy weather, so check the forecast if you’re prone to seasickness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy snorkeling and being on the water, but also want a laid-back, fun day. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who value a small-group, personalized experience over larger, more commercial tours. Families, couples, and groups of friends will appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere. If you’re seeking a day of natural beauty, marine wildlife, and island scenery with expert guides, this tour is a reliable, enjoyable choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about six hours, starting at around 9:00 am, with plenty of time at each stop.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment and floating devices, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights without bringing your own gear.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited rum punch, beer, Coke, Sprite, Diet Coke, and bottled water are available onboard, ensuring a lively, refreshingly spirited day.

Are lunch or snacks included?
No, lunch is optional and costs an additional $14 at a BBQ restaurant. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food and the local flavor.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or people with mobility issues?
It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable swimming or wading. The stops involve swimming, but guides help facilitate access and safety.

What is the marine park fee?
There is a $6.00 per person fee for access to the French marine reserve, which is not included in the price but is paid onsite.

This snorkeling and speedboat tour in St Maarten strikes a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and authentic island insights. With passionate guides, a small-group setting, and access to some of the most beautiful spots around, it offers a memorable day on the water that’s hard to match at this price point. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to see sea turtles and vibrant coral, or simply looking for a fun, lively way to explore the island’s coast, this tour delivers.

It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers seeking a worry-free, personalized experience that fits neatly into a day ashore. The mix of scenic stops, good food options, and friendly guides makes it a choice many travelers say they’d do again. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, a bit of sunscreen, and your sense of adventure—you’re in for a good one.

Experience providers like Captain Flint Boat Charters make sure you get a day worth remembering, so you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty and warm waters of St Maarten.