St Maarten is a playground of contrasts, where Dutch and French influences blend seamlessly with some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches and vibrant waters. It’s an ideal spot for tours that combine water adventures, island exploration, and tasting local spirits. We love how many of these experiences—like the Luxury Catamaran Day Sail or Snorkeling with Turtles—offer a chance to relax while discovering the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re floating in the Caribbean Sea or exploring on land in a UTV, St Maarten has an adventure that fits your style.
If you want a full day of sailing, snorkeling, and lounging, the catamaran tours provide a perfect mix of fun and relaxation. For those more interested in local flavors, the rhum distillery tour or the brewery visit let you taste the island’s unique spirits. Active travelers might prefer off-road excursions, while families and couples alike enjoy snorkeling and beach hopping. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 15 tours—each offering a different way to experience this lively and beautiful island.
1. 5 Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail in Sint Maarten on The Phoenix
At number 1, this luxury day sail aboard the Phoenix delivers a top-tier experience. For around $139, you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks, a freshly prepared onboard lunch, and water sports gear like snorkels and paddleboards. You’ll cruise along the stunning shoreline, stopping at Little Bay and Mullet Bay for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around in the Caribbean. The highlight is watching planes land at Maho Beach, a spectacle that’s downright iconic. The ship’s crew, including Captain Benji, get rave reviews for their friendly, attentive service. It’s perfect for those wanting a luxury, all-inclusive escape with easy access from Philipsburg.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for a relaxed, social day on the water with plenty of activities and comfort.
2. Topper’s Rhum Distillery Tour in St Maarten
Number 2 on our list is a spirited journey behind the scenes at Topper’s Rhum Distillery. For just $39, you get a 1.5-hour tour that covers fermentation, distillation, and aging—culminating in over 20 rum samples. The tour guide, Tasha, is lively and knowledgeable, making the process of making this local amber nectar clear and fun. Besides tasting the flavored rums, you’ll learn how to nose and taste rhum like a pro, plus try rum-infused treats like gelato and cake.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those curious about the island’s rum-making tradition and tasting a range of unique flavors at a budget-friendly price.
3. Billy Bones St. Maarten Getaway, Snorkeling with Turtles
At number 3, this full-day eco-adventure costs $139 and combines snorkeling, island stops, and a gourmet lunch. Set sail on a sleek powerboat to explore Pinel Island, Creole Rock, and Tintamarre Island, famous for turtle sightings and vibrant reefs. The boat features an open bar and a beach stop at Mullet Bay, making for a well-rounded day. Captain Sam and crew are praised for their friendly service and local knowledge, making it a favorite among travelers who want to see the best snorkeling spots while enjoying some island luxury.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts who want a full-day tour with great food, drinks, and underwater wildlife.
4. Anguilla Getaway Cruise
Number 4 is a 7-hour cruise to Anguilla that costs $139 per person. You’ll visit Meads Bay, Shoal Bay, and Sandy Island, with plenty of time for swimming and sunbathing. The boat departs from Simpson Bay and includes a lunch onboard and an open bar. The scenic ride crosses between islands, with stops at some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. The crew is praised for making everyone feel comfortable, and the stops are well-chosen to give you a taste of Anguilla’s famed beaches.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a long, scenic day on the water, combining island scenery with beach relaxation.
5. Boomerang’s Best of St. Martin/Maarten: Swim with Turtles
Number 5 features a 7-hour cruise at $169, with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a barbecue lunch aboard a spacious catamaran. The crew, including Captain Stefan, earns high praise for their friendliness and attentiveness. This tour focuses on marine life, with multiple snorkeling stops—like Creole Rock and Tintamarre Island—where you might see turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish. The open bar is a nice touch after a day in the water.
Bottom Line: Suited for those who want a balance of active snorkeling and relaxing sailing, with excellent food and drinks.
6. The Original Eco Tour Full-Day Around the Island of Sint Maarten
Number 6 offers an 8-hour eco-tour for $149. This sailing trip visits Tintamarre, Creole Rock, and Grand Case, with plenty of snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on board and see local landmarks like Marigot and Baie Rouge. The sunset sail at the end caps off a full day of exploring both the French and Dutch sides of the island, making it a comprehensive experience for nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an in-depth, full-day eco-sailing adventure with a focus on natural beauty.
7. Pinel Island Adventure: Tandem Kayak Experience
Number 7 is a self-guided kayak rental for about $95 per group. You control the pace as you explore Little Key and Pinel Island, with tips and directions provided. The tour includes hiking on the islands, snorkeling, and feeding iguanas. It’s perfect for independent travelers who want flexibility and to discover at their own speed, with options to enjoy tranquil coves and pristine beaches.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous, self-reliant travelers who love kayaking and exploring on their own terms.
8. 4 Hour Guided UTV Side By Side Tour
Number 8 features a half-day off-road tour for $300 per group. Drive a UTV along coastlines, inland trails, and scenic spots like Oak Beach and Oyster Pond. The guide, known for his friendly style, takes you through both French and Dutch sides, with plenty of photo stops and wildlife viewing—like iguanas. The tour is fast-paced and perfect for those wanting a mix of scenery and adventure.
Bottom Line: Fits travelers seeking off-road excitement and island scenery in a manageable four hours.
9. Electric Adventures Buggy Rental
Number 9 offers an electric buggy rental for 4 hours at $248.75. It’s a flexible way to see the island, with a detailed map highlighting attractions like Maho Beach, Marigot Market, and Grand Case. The self-guided experience allows you to explore at your own pace and visit both the French and Dutch sides. The buggies are eco-friendly, and you can visit iconic spots and hidden corners alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent travelers who want freedom to explore without a strict schedule.
10. CAPTAIN ALAN’S 4hr -3 Islands-snorkeling-turtles-beach ADVENTURE
Number 10 is a small-group snorkeling and beach tour for $99. It covers Tintamarre, Pinel, and St. Martin, with snorkeling gear and fresh sandwiches. Captain Alan is praised for his friendly attitude and local insights. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate experience with opportunities to see turtles and marine life.
Bottom Line: Suited for those wanting a personalized, small-group snorkeling tour.
11. UTV / ATV Guided Tour in Philipsburg
Number 11 features a 3.5-hour guided ATV tour for $120 per group. Drive through the streets of Philipsburg, then onto scenic spots like Orient Bay and Coralita Bay. The tour covers both sides of the island, with stops to feed iguanas and walk on water at the Moses walk. It’s great for active travelers who want a mix of cultural sights and off-road fun.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurers seeking a comprehensive island trip with a bit of everything.
12. Private Full-Day Luxury Sailing Catamaran
Number 12 is a luxury private charter for up to 8 people at $1,700. It’s a bespoke sailing experience with stops for snorkeling at Little Bay and Tintamarre. You choose your pace, and the crew caters to your preferences, including snacks, drinks, and a relaxed vibe. Many rave about the personalized service and luxury feel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantic getaways, groups, or families seeking total privacy and tailored experiences.
13. St. Maarten Brewery & Beer Tours
Number 13 offers a beer tasting tour for just $25.65, lasting about 1.5 hours. You’ll learn how local beers are brewed, with tastings in the brewery’s taproom. It’s a fun, laid-back way to enjoy some local flavors after a day at the beach.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beer lovers wanting a quick, insightful taste of local brewing.
14. Tropical Catamaran Snorkeling & Sailing
Number 14 is a 6-hour sailing and snorkeling tour at $132, with a Caribbean buffet and open bar. The crew takes you to multiple snorkeling spots, including Maho Beach, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The small group size keeps it intimate, and the food is praised as delicious.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a full day of sailing, snorkeling, and Caribbean cuisine.
15. Boomerang’s Best of Anguilla: Swim with Turtles Adventure
Number 15 offers an 8-hour day trip to Anguilla for $179, with stops at Little Bay, Shoal Bay, and Prickly Pear Cays. Snorkelers and beach lovers will appreciate the swimming, snorkeling, and beach time combined with a BBQ lunch on the sand. The tours are highly rated for their well-organized itinerary and friendly crew.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a long, scenic day with lots of opportunities to swim and relax on pristine beaches.
How to Choose the Best Tour in St Maarten
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For luxury and relaxation, the Luxury Catamaran Day Sail or the private sailing are hard to beat. If you prefer island exploration and adventure, the UTV or ATV tours or buggy rentals offer exciting off-road experiences. For those interested in local flavors, the rum distillery and brewery tours provide authentic tastings.
Timing is also key: full-day tours like the Anguilla cruise or Eco Tour give you more depth, while shorter options work well for tight schedules or combined trips. Booking early guarantees you get your preferred date, especially during peak season (December to April).
Final Thoughts
St Maarten offers an impressive variety of tours, from luxurious sails to off-road adventures and culinary experiences. For a romantic escape or an exclusive escape, the Private Catamaran Charter stands out, while active travelers might prefer exploring on a UTV or kayak. Families and snorkelers will find plenty of fun with options like Snorkeling with Turtles or the Eco Tour.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic options. Now’s the time to plan that perfect adventure in St Maarten—the island’s diversity guarantees a memorable experience.
Enjoy exploring your options and paddling, sailing, or zooming your way through St Maarten’s best tours. Happy adventuring!