St Maarten Sky Explorer, Flying Dutchman and Schooner Ride Combo

Experience the Best of St. Maarten with the Sky Explorer, Flying Dutchman, and Schooner Ride Combo

If you’re looking for a fun-filled half-day adventure that combines scenic views, adrenaline rushes, and a touch of local history, this tour might catch your eye. Priced at $170.10 per person, it promises to take you up Sentry Hill on the Sky Explorer, zip across mountain ridges, and enjoy a unique dry tube ride on the mountain slopes. It’s a well-rounded experience designed to give you a taste of St. Maarten’s natural beauty and excitement, all within about five hours.

What we like most about this tour is the stunning panoramic views from the Sky Explorer — you’ll get a bird’s-eye perspective of the island’s lush landscape and sparkling coastlines. Plus, the step into the world of thrill-seeking with the world’s steepest zip line, the Flying Dutchman. On the downside, some reviews suggest certain parts, like the dry tube ride, might not meet expectations. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and adventure, and who don’t mind a bit of a wait if some activities are temporarily less impressive.

Travelers who appreciate authentic excursions that blend natural beauty with adrenaline will find this package appealing. It’s especially suitable for those who want a comprehensive experience without spending a full day on separate activities. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or cruise ship visitors eager for a variety of attractions, this adventure offers good value—though keep in mind some parts have mixed reviews.

Key Points

• Beautiful panoramic views from the Sky Explorer chairlift.
• Thrilling zip lines, including the world’s steepest—the Flying Dutchman.
• Family-friendly dry tube ride (though some find it underwhelming).
• Rich estate history and scenic viewpoints at Rockland Estate.
• Flexible options for combining adventure and relaxation.
• Limited food, drinks, and souvenirs included, so plan accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the St. Maarten Sky Explorer, Flying Dutchman, and Schooner Ride Combo

When we first read about this tour, the promise was clear: “all four exciting attractions in one excursion.” That’s a strong selling point for anyone wanting to maximize their time and thrills on the island. The tour kicks off at the Rainforest Adventures St Maarten location, nestled within the Rockland Estate, a site with a history dating back to the 1700s. You’ll start with a chairlift ride called the Soualiga Sky Explorer, ascending to Sentry Hill, where the views are sure to impress.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This tour is designed to be a 5-hour adventure, with the flexibility to explore at a relaxed pace. The Sky Explorer takes you up to Sentry Hill, offering stunning panoramic views that make for perfect photo opportunities. From there, you can zip across the mountain ridge on the Sentry Hill Zip Line, which covers an impressive 1640 ft (500 meters).

Next, thrill-seekers will head to the Flying Dutchman, renowned as the world’s steepest zip line, stretching 2,800 ft (853 meters) with a vertical drop of 1,050 ft (320 meters). The experience of zooming down this line, with the wind rushing past, is often cited as the highlight. Following that, the Sky Explorer is used again to reach the Schooner Ride station, where you’ll enjoy a dry inner tube ride down the mountain—an amusing activity, though some visitors have found it less exciting than expected.

Authentic Experiences and Learning

Beyond the adrenaline, the tour includes opportunities to learn about St. Maarten’s history and heritage. The estate hosts a plantation house and museum that reveals stories from the 1700s, and the guide might share insights about Emilio Wilson, a notable local figure. These elements add depth to what might otherwise be just a thrill ride, providing a chance to connect with the island’s past.

The Highlights and the Drawbacks

We love the stunning views from the Sky Explorer. Sitting comfortably in the chairlift, you’ll get a broad, sweeping vista of the island’s coastline and lush mountains—truly picture-perfect moments. The Flying Dutchman zip line is another major draw, as it offers a unique perspective on the island’s rugged terrain while satisfying any adrenaline junkie.

However, a key consideration is the dry tube ride. One reviewer called it a “complete fail” citing it as a waste of time. The experience might not be as engaging as the other activities, which is worth keeping in mind if your main goal is thrill or fun.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Starting at the meeting point on L.B. Scott Rd in Philipsburg, you’ll check in and probably get a brief safety orientation. The group size tends to be around 80 people, so expect some waiting, especially during peak times. The Sky Explorer runs from 11 am to 4 pm, offering a flexible window for your adventure.

Once on the chairlift, you ascend to Sentry Hill, where views stretch across the island—expect to see the coastline, green hills, and perhaps cruise ships in the harbor. The zipline rides are supervised by experienced guides, and basic safety gear is provided.

The Flying Dutchman is the centerpiece, boasting an impressive vertical drop and a long ride that offers a real thrill. For many, it’s the highlight of the tour. The inner tube ride that follows is designed to be a fun, dry land activity, but some guests felt it was less engaging.

Real Traveler Feedback and Insights

One reviewer noted, “The zip line wasn’t bad. The Dutchman — once we actually got to ride it — was spectacular.” This highlights a common frustration: sometimes, activities can be delayed or not run smoothly, impacting the overall experience. Another traveler described the dry tube ride as a “complete fail,” implying it might not be worth the time if you’re expecting high excitement.

Food, Drinks, and Souvenirs

While the tour includes entry to Rockland Estate and access to attractions, food and drinks are not included. However, Emilio’s Restaurant at the estate offers options if you want to stay and enjoy some local fare. Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase but are not included in the package price.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $170.10 per person, the value hinges on your priorities. If you are eager for multiple adrenaline activities combined with scenic views, it offers good bang for your buck. The multiple attractions make this a cost-effective way to experience several of St. Maarten’s highlights in one go.

That said, the mixed reviews about the dry tube ride and the potential for waiting times are worth considering. The price might seem steep if only the zip lines appeal to you, but when combined with the viewing experience and estate visit, many find it a fair trade-off.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for families, thrill-seekers, or cruise visitors who want a comprehensive experience. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic chairlift rides and zip lines, and are okay with a short, varied itinerary. Travelers who value history and scenery will appreciate the estate’s heritage, while those seeking smooth, hassle-free activities might want to research further or read recent reviews.

Final Thoughts

The St. Maarten Sky Explorer, Flying Dutchman, and Schooner Ride Combo offers a diverse taste of what the island has to offer, blending spectacular views, adrenaline, and a dash of history. While some parts, like the dry tube ride, might not hit the mark for all, the overall experience provides plenty of memorable moments, especially if you enjoy nature and adventure in a compact timeframe.

If you’re seeking an exciting, scenic tour that keeps you moving and engaged, this could be a solid choice. Just prepare for some variability—delays or less-than-stellar activities—so go into it with flexible expectations and a sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and above can participate, provided they meet the height (52 inches minimum) and weight requirements (100 to 275 pounds), and are comfortable with the activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Dress for the weather, and consider bringing sunscreen and a hat, especially for the chairlift and zip line portions.

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including travel time, safety instructions, and the activities.

Can I cancel if my cruise doesn’t dock?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if your cruise ship doesn’t call at St. Maarten, ensuring you won’t lose your money.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase them at Emilio’s Restaurant or bring your own snacks.

What’s the group size like?
The maximum number of participants is 80 travelers, so expect some waiting during busy times.

What is the best time to do this tour?
It operates from 11 am to 4 pm daily, so plan to arrive early to maximize your time.

Are photos included?
No, photos and souvenirs are available for purchase but are not included in the tour price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

All in all, this tour offers a good mix of scenery, adventure, and history—perfect for those who want a packed, fun day on St. Maarten with some unpredictability to keep things interesting.