Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience

A full-day sailing adventure from St. Maarten that explores the pristine waters and beaches of Anguilla and Prickly Pear, all for $149 per person. This tour, operated by Eagle Tours, offers a blend of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing with plenty of good food and drinks aboard a comfortable catamaran. For around 8 hours, you’ll enjoy the sunshine as you cruise past stunning islands, snorkel among colorful fish, and indulge in a hearty Caribbean buffet.

Two things we really love about this experience: First, the opportunity to snorkel at two different stops—Prickly Pear Cay and Meads Bay in Anguilla—means plenty of chances to see vibrant marine life. Second, the onboard amenities, especially the open bar and buffet lunch, turn what could be just a boat ride into a true floating feast.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency—poor weather can lead to alternative stops or cancellations. Also, some reviews mention that the ride can be choppy, so if you’re sensitive to rough waters, pack your seasickness remedies.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy relaxing in the sun, snorkeling, and good Caribbean cuisine, particularly those looking for a well-organized yet authentic island day. It’s especially good for those who love scenic boat rides and social atmospheres, but may not be ideal for cruise ship passengers or anyone with mobility concerns.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Snorkeling: You’ll get to snorkel among tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.
• All-Inclusive: Open bar, buffet lunch, and Champagne toast make it a real treat.
• Flexible Stops: Two main island stops, with alternatives depending on weather.
• Expert Crew: The crew is praised for their professionalism, safety, and friendliness.
• Choppy Waters: Expect some rough seas; seasickness precautions may be advisable.
• Family Friendly & Social: Suitable for all ages and great for meeting fellow travelers.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Tour

The day begins early at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, around 8:15 am, where you’ll check in with your passport and prepare for nearly a full day at sea. The boat departs promptly, and from the start, you’ll notice the relaxed yet lively atmosphere onboard. The first leg of the journey takes you past Simpson Bay, known for its mega yachts and bustling harbor scene. Watching the shoreline fade into the distance, you’ll settle into your preferred spot—whether on the trampoline, deck chairs, or shaded area.

The Sailing & Snorkeling at Prickly Pear

Once past Anguilita, a small rocky island just near Anguilla, snacks and sandwiches are served onboard, a thoughtful touch that keeps hunger at bay during the long crossing. When you arrive at Prickly Pear Cay, you’ll find a well-preserved, white-sand beach surrounded by coral reefs—a perfect spot for snorkeling. You’ll snorkel with provided gear among butterfly fish, snapper, and grouper, marveling at the vibrant underwater world. Reviews consistently highlight how the shallow, calm waters make snorkeling accessible even for less experienced swimmers.

One guest gushes, “The water was warm and calm, and the marine life was so colorful,” which sums up how many travelers feel about this stop. Keep in mind, the shallow reefs and soft sands mean you can enjoy the sea without needing to go far from the boat.

Lunch & Relaxation

After snorkeling, you’ll return to the boat for a buffet-style Caribbean lunch. Expect barbecue ribs, chicken, island rice, potato salad, Caesar salad, and Gouda cheese—plenty of hearty fare with fresh flavors. Several reviewers describe the food as plentiful and well-seasoned, making the whole experience more authentic and satisfying. One traveler notes, “The food was good, and there was more than enough for everyone,” emphasizing the value of the included meal.

Afternoon in Anguilla

After lunch, your boat heads toward Meads Bay, often called one of Anguilla’s most spectacular beaches. With endless stretch of powdery white sand and turquoise waters, this is a perfect spot to relax, swim, or snorkel again. You get approximately 1.5 hours on this idyllic stretch of coast, giving plenty of time to soak up the sun or take a gentle dip.

Many reviews highlight how memorable the scenery is, with travelers calling Meads Bay “breathtaking” and “the most beautiful water in the world.” Here, you’ll also get a chance to marvel at the island from the water and enjoy the calm, inviting waters.

The Return & Champagne Toast

As the day winds down, the boat cruises back toward St. Maarten, crossing the channel under a setting sun. This part of the trip is especially favored for the Champagne toast, where crew members serve sparkling wine, grapes, and banana cake—an elegant way to cap off the day. Many guests describe the sunset as “breathtaking,” making for perfect photo opportunities and a warm, celebratory atmosphere.

Passing by Baie Longue and the airport beach, you can catch a landing plane, which adds a touch of real island life to your experience. The whole journey ends back at Bobby’s Marina, where a final toast and goodbyes unfold.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at Bobby’s Marina at 8:15 am, with check-in and immigration processing in Simpson Bay. The first stop is a snorkeling session at Prickly Pear Cay, a well-known spot for coral reefs and tropical fish. After about an hour here, the boat sails to Anguilla’s Meads Bay, giving you roughly 1.5 hours for relaxation, swimming, or taking more photos.

The trip includes two main snorkeling stops but also offers some flexibility due to weather conditions—reviews mention that sometimes the planned stops are replaced or shortened, especially if the seas get rough. The onboard crew is praised for their safety awareness and friendly attitude, ensuring everyone feels comfortable whether swimming or just relaxing.

The buffet lunch is served on the boat, providing a hearty meal with options to suit various tastes. The afternoon involves more snorkeling or beach time, followed by the scenic sail back with champagne and light refreshments.

The entire journey is approximately 8 hours long, with group sizes capped at 45 travelers to maintain a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Authentic Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

Some reviews paint a picture of perfect days, with travelers raving about the professionalism of the crew. “The crew on this trip were so fun! They were all about your safety, taking care of everything,” one recounts. Many describe the beautiful scenery and relaxing vibe—”Prickly Pear has the most beautiful water in the world” and “Meads Bay is breathtaking.”

Others are more candid, noting that weather can impact the experience. For instance, if seas are choppy, stops might be shortened or altered—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calm waters.

Food and drinks are consistently well-reviewed, especially the unlimited drinks and buffet lunch, which many find to be excellent value for the price. “The crew took care of us very well—I felt spoiled,” says one traveler, highlighting how attentive the service is.

However, a few reviews mention crowded boats or less-than-ideal food. One traveler found the boat crowded and the food tasteless, emphasizing that such experiences can vary depending on conditions and expectations.

Transportation & Practicalities

Getting to the departure point at Bobby’s Marina is straightforward if you’re staying nearby. The tour offers mobile tickets, so you can check in conveniently. The cost does include government fees ($25) and recommends securing parking at $2 an hour. Since no private transport is included, plan accordingly if you’re not on a cruise or don’t have a rental.

You’re asked to bring your passport for immigration purposes, as copies or photos won’t suffice. The tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather can lead to cancellations or changes, with refunds available if the experience is canceled.

Group size maxes out at 45 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social and personal space. The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, with snorkel gear provided and staff ready to assist.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day catamaran trip is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and good eats. If snorkeling among colorful tropical fish and enjoying beautiful island vistas sounds appealing, you’ll love the multiple stops at Prickly Pear and Meads Bay. The all-inclusive nature—unlimited drinks, buffet lunch, and champagne—adds great value, especially for those seeking a carefree day.

It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, are comfortable with some movement and waves, and appreciate authentic Caribbean flavors. Families, groups of friends, and couples will find plenty to enjoy, especially those who want to see the best of Anguilla without the hassle of planning transportation or meals.

However, if you’re sensitive to choppy seas or prefer a more leisurely beach day on land, this might be less ideal. Also, those expecting an extensive tour of Anguilla or more beach time might be disappointed, as the focus is on snorkeling and scenic sailing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. With provided snorkeling gear and shallow waters at Prickly Pear, non-swimmers can enjoy the marine scenery from the boat or in shallow areas. Many reviews mention that the crew is attentive and helpful if you’re not comfortable swimming.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and possibly seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness. Towels and extra clothing are optional but can enhance comfort, especially after swimming.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, lunch, and cruising back with Champagne toast.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers of all ages enjoy the trip, and children are welcomed. Check with the operator if you have very young kids or special needs.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel gear, instruction, snacks, buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and a Champagne toast are included. Government fees ($25) are additional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the trip, providing peace of mind.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is parking available at Bobby’s Marina?
Yes, secure parking costs $2 per hour, and it’s recommended to reserve or plan accordingly.

Is this suitable for cruise ship passengers?
This tour is not recommended for cruise ship passengers, likely due to timing and port logistics.

In summary, this Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience is a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful waters and beaches. With a friendly crew, tasty food, and plenty of snorkeling, it offers excellent value for the money. It’s perfect for those who want a lively, scenic, and tasty day on the water, especially if they’re keen to explore marine life and unwind with a glass of Champagne at sunset.