The Best Catamaran Day Sail in St Maarten

If you’re looking for a memorable way to spend a day in St. Maarten, this catamaran day sail might just be your best bet. Priced at $139 per person, with an approximate 5-hour duration, it offers a delightful mix of cruising, water activities, and good company. Starting from Simpson Bay, you’ll get to explore both the Dutch and French sides of the island, stopping at beautiful beaches like Mullet Bay and Little Bay, where the water and scenery really shine.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances relaxed cruising with active fun—snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even the famous Tarzan swing. The crew earns high praise for their friendliness and attentiveness, making sure everyone feels comfortable and well cared for. Plus, the included lunch—marinated chicken skewers, Caribbean rice, salads, and baguette—is a real highlight, especially with the top-shelf unlimited drinks flowing throughout.

One thing to keep in mind is that the meeting point is not fixed in advance, so you’ll need to check your email from the tour provider, Diane, for details a week before, rather than relying on the ticket instructions. Other than that, this trip suits families, couples, and groups looking for a fun, authentic day on the water.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with stops at Mullet Bay and Little Bay, offering options for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.
• Inclusive activities like paddleboarding, snorkel equipment, and the famous Tarzan swing provide entertainment for all ages.
• Excellent crew service with attentive hosts making sure everyone’s needs are met and the drinks keep flowing.
• High value for money considering the quality of the food, drinks, activities, and the overall relaxed atmosphere.
• Small group experience with a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a personal touch.
• Eco-friendly efforts through the Travelife Sustainability Partner program, giving you an ethical travel option.

Starting Point: Simpson Bay and the Meeting Details

The tour begins in Simpson Bay, a bustling area known for its vibrant marina and easy access from cruise ships and hotels. The meeting point is not provided in the initial ticket info, but travelers are instructed to check their email from Diane—the tour coordinator—about a week prior for the exact location. This approach might seem a bit old-fashioned, but it ensures you get the most current details, especially if there are any day-to-day changes due to weather or seas.

Once aboard the spacious and spotless catamaran, you’ll quickly notice the friendly atmosphere. The vessel is described as “more like someone’s home,” with comfortable cushioned seats, shaded and sunny areas, and a welcoming vibe that caters to families and solo travelers alike.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Mullet Bay: The First Stop

The first stop at Mullet Bay is often the highlight for many. As one reviewer put it, “The Tarzan swing in Mullet Bay was a cherry on top,” and it’s easy to see why. This stop involves snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and just swimming to the beach with noodles or towels.

The crew prepares a delicious lunch here—marinated chicken skewers grilled on board, Caribbean rice, green salads, baguette, and often a refreshing rum punch to wash it down. The food quality receives consistent praise; one guest described it as “fantastic,” adding that the meal was grilled right on the boat, making it fresh and flavorful.

The Tarzan Swing and Water Play

The Tarzan swing is a big hit, with ages from 2 to 89 enjoying the safe, easy-to-use trapeze over the water. It’s a perfect mix of thrill and laughter, with many reviewers calling it “super fun” and a “big hit with families.” The bar stays open, and snacks are available afterward for those who want to relax after swinging.

Little Bay: The Second Stop

Depending on the day’s conditions, Little Bay might be the first or second stop, but it’s equally charming. Here, the focus is on relaxation and water activities, often with fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the clear waters and secluded surroundings. Snorkeling in Little Bay is frequently highlighted as an enjoyable experience—clean, calm waters with plenty of marine life.

Water Activities: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Kayaking

What makes this tour stand out is the variety of water-based fun included. You’ll have access to snorkel gear, paddleboards, and kayaks—all free to use. These activities allow you to explore the underwater world or just float lazily, soaking in the Caribbean sun.

Guests frequently mention how easy it is to get started, and the crew is happy to assist beginners or those unfamiliar with water sports. “Snorkeling was great,” one traveler reports, “and the paddleboard was sturdy and easy to handle.”

The Tarzan Swing: A Unique Highlight

Few water tours feature a Tarzan swing as part of the itinerary, and it’s often the most memorable part. It’s described as “safe, easy, and super fun,” accessible to children and adults alike. Standing on the trapeze, then swinging into the water, provides both a sense of adventure and a hilarious photo opportunity.

Crew and Service: The Personal Touch

Reviews consistently mention Anne, Jackie, and Scott as outstanding hosts. They go above and beyond to make sure everyone’s comfortable, offering drinks frequently and making sure water toys and snorkeling gear are ready to go. “Constant attention,” one reviewer notes, “and the drinks kept flowing the entire trip.”

The crew’s friendly attitude and attentive service are a big part of why so many guests give this tour five stars. It’s not just about the activities—it’s about feeling welcomed and cared for.

Food and Drinks: A Caribbean Feast

The lunch is a true highlight—grilled chicken skewers, Caribbean rice, fresh salads, and baguette create a satisfying meal after water activities. Snacks and unlimited top-shelf drinks keep everyone refreshed. Guests often mention the generous bar and the quality of the drinks, which include rum punches, beers, and sodas.

One guest remarked, “The drinks were flowing, and the food was excellent,” making the whole experience feel like an indulgent escape.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour starts at 10:00 am and runs for around five hours. It’s suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age of 18 for alcohol consumption, but children are welcome to enjoy the water activities and swing. The boat size is capped at 30 people, making it intimate and avoiding overcrowding.

Transportation is convenient; the tour is within walking distance of cruise ships and hotels in Simpson Bay, and parking is available if you’re driving. The confirmation process involves checking your email for the exact meeting point, so don’t rely solely on the initial ticket info.

The cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—adding peace of mind when booking.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Most reviews highlight how genuine and friendly the crew is—more like sailing on a friend’s boat than a commercial tour. The small-group feel, combined with the attentive service and the chance to participate in water sports, ensures a relaxed, fun-filled day.

Many guests mention that their expectations were exceeded, citing the delicious food, beautiful scenery, and top-notch service. It’s clear that this tour offers more than just a boat ride; it’s an opportunity to enjoy St. Maarten’s natural beauty and friendly atmosphere in an authentic, relaxed setting.

This catamaran sail suits a broad range of travelers—families, couples, or groups of friends—who want a comfortable, fun, and well-organized day on the water. If you love being active but also appreciate time to relax and soak up the scenery, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for those who value good food and drinks and enjoy participating in water sports without feeling pressured.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see both French and Dutch sides of the island without the hassle of complicated logistics, as the cruise provides a scenic overview of the coastline. The small group size and attentive crew also make it a great choice for anyone wanting a more personal experience.

When considering the overall value, this tour offers a lot. The quality of the food and drinks, the variety of activities, and the friendly service make it feel like more than just a boat trip—it’s a Caribbean celebration. The scenic stops allow you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, while the water toys and swing provide moments of genuine fun and laughter.

For those seeking a relaxed yet lively day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just lounge under the sun, this day sail is a top contender in St. Maarten. It’s especially appealing for families and groups who want a safe, inclusive, and memorable experience that captures the spirit of the Caribbean.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of all ages can enjoy the water activities and the Tarzan swing, provided they are supervised. The tour is family-friendly, but the minimum age for alcohol is 18.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkel equipment and life jackets are provided and included in the tour. Feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

What should I wear?
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, and sunscreen. The boat has shaded areas, but you’ll want sun protection for the water and beach stops.

How long are the stops?
Each stop lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time for water activities, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying lunch.

What is the food like?
The lunch is a Caribbean-style grilled chicken skewers with rice, salads, and baguette. Guests frequently praise the quality and flavor.

Is the bar included?
Yes, the tour features an unlimited top-shelf open bar that stays open throughout the trip, including rum punches, beers, and sodas.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This catamaran day sail in St. Maarten delivers a well-rounded, authentic experience—balancing scenic cruising, water fun, and Caribbean hospitality in one memorable package. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you’ll find it here.