SINT MAARTEN....SAINT MARTIN....
SINT MAARTEN....SAINT MARTIN....
…The island of Saint Martin / Sint Maarten is one of the most unusual places in the Caribbean—because it’s actually one island split between two nations:
French side: Saint Martin (north)
Dutch side: Sint Maarten (south)
They share an open border, so you can walk or drive between them easily—but the vibe changes noticeably.
🇫🇷 Saint Martin (French side)
More relaxed, European feel
🍷 Culture & atmosphere
Feels distinctly French—language, cuisine, and lifestyle
Quieter, more laid-back, less commercialised
🍽️ Food scene
Known as the “culinary capital of the Caribbean”
Gourmet dining in places like Grand Case, famous for beachfront restaurants
🏖️ Beaches
Beautiful and often less crowded
Includes Orient Bay, a long, lively beach (partly clothing-optional)
💶 Currency & style
Uses the euro
More boutique hotels, villas, and upscale charm
🌴 What the whole island is known for
Two cultures on one small island (about 87 km² total)
No border controls between sides
Diverse beaches—from calm bays to lively party spots
Strong mix of Caribbean, European, and international influences
🤝 Key difference in one line
Saint Martin (French): quieter, food-focused, European charm
Sint Maarten (Dutch): livelier, nightlife, shopping, resort scene
🇳🇱 Sint Maarten (Dutch side)
More lively, American-influenced
🎉 Atmosphere
Busier, more nightlife, casinos, and resorts
Cruise ship hub around the capital Philipsburg
🛍️ Shopping & entertainment
Duty-free shopping, jewellery, electronics
Casinos and beach bars
✈️ Famous attraction
Maho Beach, where planes fly incredibly low overhead as they land—one of the island’s most iconic sights
💵 Currency & style
Uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder (though US dollars are widely accepted)
More large resorts and all-inclusive options
Fun Scenic Drive to Moho (Airplane) Beach with Rum Punch, Beer, Water and Sodas on the journey
$32
After being picked up from the Port, sit back and enjoy a nice scenic drive to the famous Moho Beach. The most popular area on the Dutch side, which is Airport beach Maho area where you can watch the planes land and take off! And enjoy this beach, or take a swim in the refreshing ocean, enjoy the fun of being blasted from the turbine engines!! . This spot is a unique where travellers flock to experience the thrilling rush of airplanes flying extremely close overhead. Great for those special unique photo opportunities you can remember forever.
With bars and restaurants, and shops on site too, don’t forget to stop off at the Bakers, with delicious pastries and the best ice cream I have ever tasted!!!
After the big airplanes have made their early afternoon arrivals we head back to the Port for 3 pm avoiding the massive traffic on the way back. If you want to stop of in town and walk back to the Port on the way back to do some shopping, go ahead and ask the driver.
For many of you who already know Joe’s team from the Fun Beach Hopping tour, you know you will have a big cooler on board full of Rum Punch, Beers, Sodas and waters to keep you all refreshed on the journeys!!!
This is not the half day cruise ships sell this is a five hour 10am-3pm day!!
This is the one you have been waiting for!!!! Limited Places per Port arrival date.
KAYAK LAGOON EXPERIENCE ON SIMPSON BAY LAGOON
with optional Moho Beach add on.
$66.95
Board your comfortable transportation at the Port for a scenic drive to Simpson Bay. Enjoy the scenic drive as we pass through Philipsburg, the Dutch capital, and over Cay Hill. As you ride, keep your eyes open for the impressive Lagoon. It is hard to miss as it is the largest saltwater lagoon in the Antilles. Simpson Bay Lagoon – is the largest saltwater lagoon in the Northeastern Caribbean.
MOHO BEACH
For just $10 per person you can add on the Iconic Moho Beach after your Kayak experience, where you can sit back and chill for a few hours or, take those sensational pictures of the airplanes arriving over your head!! At 3 pm we make our way back to the Port before the busy traffic builds up.
(if you want this option please add it in the last box to the supplier)
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With approximately an hour of kayaking, this is our more intense trip. Perfect if you are looking to get a bit of exercise or have some experience kayaking. However, even beginners can do it – we include a full safety briefing and short paddling introduction class at the start of the tour. It isn’t hard, it just takes teamwork!
We’ll depart from Kim Sha beach into the Caribbean ocean before entering the Simpson Bay lagoon through the channel under the bridge. Make sure to get close to the rocks as we go through the channel and we’ll point out the crabs and hopefully and iguana or two.
As we paddle through the lagoon, we get close-up views of incredible mega yachts docked at the various marinas which dot the coastline of the lagoon (Mega Yacht season is from November to April). After about 30 minutes of kayaking, we reach our turn around point – a small area of mangroves where we take a well-deserved break as the guides point out interesting creatures like the Upside-Down Jellyfish and the strange Sea Cucumbers which thrive in these shallow waters. Keep your eyes open for the Tarpon hunting and the rarely seen Grey and Blue Herons which nest in these quiet havens.
Back under the bridge, if weather allows, we head to Simpson Bay Beach for a change of scenery and a nice swim to stretch out our muscles before returning to Kim Sha Beach for a cold drink and good conversation with your guides.
KAYAK AND SNORKEL EXPERIENCE ON SIMPSON BAY LAGOON
with optional Moho Beach add on.
$68.95
Perfect for beginners or those that want a more relaxed pace.
Board your comfortable transportation at the Port for a scenic drive to Simpson Bay. Enjoy the scenic drive as we pass through Philipsburg, the Dutch capital, and over Cay Hill. As you ride, keep your eyes open for the impressive Lagoon. It is hard to miss as it is the largest saltwater lagoon in the Antilles. Simpson Bay Lagoon – is the largest saltwater lagoon in the Northeastern Caribbean.
MOHO BEACH
For just $10 per person you can add on the Iconic Moho Beach after your Kayak experience, where you can sit back and chill for a few hours or, take those sensational pictures of the airplanes arriving over your head!! At 3 pm we make our way back to the Port before the busy traffic builds up.
(if you want this option please add it in the last box to the supplier)
-
We start the kayak tour with a quick lesson about safety and paddling technique. As a group we paddle out through Simpson Bay, passing the boats moored in the bay. If weather allows, we paddle out into the ocean and around Pelican Rocks to reach the next bay. The pace is leisurely, allowing you time to enjoy the view of the neighbouring islands and the birds resting on the rocks. Once we reach our destination, we beach the kayaks and get ready for snorkelling. each the kayaks and get ready for snorkelling.
After trying out your snorkelling equipment we swim out to explore the rocky caverns and corals where we will see parrot fish, angelfish, trumpet fish, needle nose, tang and a variety of other creatures. Your guides point you in the right direction and snorkel with you, helping to point out fish you might have missed otherwise.After approximately 45 minutes of underwater exploration, you will head back to your kayaks for the return paddle to Kim Sha Beach followed by an ice-cold refreshment at the Greenhouse Restaurant and a discussion on the fish that you discovered during your swim.
Note: We use sit-on-top double kayaks for our tours. There are a limited number of single kayaks available which are reserved for the guides and if there is an odd number of peopleIf this does not give you enough beach time, rather than returning to the Port why not add on a trip to the sensational Moho (Planes) Beach below
HISTORICAL PHILIPSBURG BY BICYCLE
with optional Moho Beach add on
$44.65
After a short briefing on the basic use of the well-maintained fleet of Trek bikes, enjoy a short test ride to make sure you are comfortable before setting out on the roads. Making your way through the streets of Philipsburg, enjoy the many stops at historical points of interest to rest and learn some of the colourful history. We will Visiting Philipsburg’s historic locations and take in spectacular views as you learn about St. Maarten’s rich history while on the saddle of your bike.
MOHO BEACH
For just $20 per person, you can add on the Iconic Moho Beach after your Kayak experience, where you can sit back and chill for a few hours or, take those sensational pictures of the airplanes arriving over your head!! At 3 pm we make our way back to the Port before the busy traffic builds up.
(if you want this choice then please add it in the last box to the supplier)
-
Start your tour with a leisurely ride to the southern part of town where your guide will point out the island of St. Bart’s, best known for its popularity amongst jet setters and celebrities. Your guide will tell you some of St. Barth's colourful history before leading you back into town along the busting Boardwalk, loved for its pristine waters, lively cafes, and abundant shopping. You will then head into the heart of town, where you will have the chance to stop at various points of interest to learn about the island’s past and rich culture.
1st Stop - Cycle to the Southern part of town to View the neighbouring island of St. Barth's.
2nd Stop - Freedom Fighter's Monument: You will learn about St. Maarten’s earlier salt trade, the importance of the Great Salt Pond.
3rd Stop - Carnival Village: Learn why St. Maartener’s love carnival so much and why the Carnival Village is important to their culture.
4th Stop – Learn about the historical importance of the town’s Old Courthouse, who lived there, and why it has a pineapple on the top.
5th Stop – Local Market: You will have a chance for some brief souvenir shopping and photo opportunity.
6th Stop – Walter Plantz Plaza: Of course, your day will not be complete without a stop at the Walter Plantz Plaza where you will be able to enjoy a dip in the beautiful waters of Great Bay. Walter Plantz Plaza also offers freshwater showers and restrooms for changing into your bathing suit. If swimming is not for you there is souvenir shopping nearby, or you can simply sit in the shade enjoying your well-deserved celebratory drink while chatting with your fellow cyclists.
Finally, you will head back to your ship via the Boardwalk, with fun memories and some added wisdom about our beautiful island.
If this does not give you all the beach time you wanted and would like to see the amazing Planes beach, look below
TASTE OF THE ISLAND TOUR
plus Marigot Shopping and Orient
Beach
$27
This is a 3-hour value for money Starting from the cruise terminal at 9 am we take a tour through the Capital of the Dutch side, then a picture stop at the International Lookout point. On a clear day you can see the surrounding islands close to St Maarten and Simpson Bay Lagoon, home to several yachts.
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Next, we continue our tour, stopping at the borders between the Dutch and French side, taking pictures of the monument that connects both sides.
Our next stop is Marigot to scope out the shopping and market areas, enjoying the local food, have a delicious pain au chocolate form one of the local bakeries. Visit the famous West Indies shopping Mall.
From here we continue to one of the most famous beaches on the Island, Orient Bay Beach which enjoys the reputation of being the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” This stunning strip of white sand with clear turquoise waters is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
There is no shortage of bars, restaurants, and beach clubs to choose from, watch the colourful parasailing, kitesurfing, and hand gliding. Our regular stop here will last around thirty minutes. For those wishing to stay the afternoon on this beautiful beach and enjoy the facilities on offer, a second pick up time is arranged later in the afternoon to get you back to the cruise ship around 3.30 pm.
There is an additional pick-up fee of $5 pp.
Those wishing to continue this journey, will be brought back to town, where you will be given the choice to be transported back to the cruise port or hang out, do some shopping, see the local sites at your own leisure. (You can easily walk back to the cruise Port or take a water taxi from the Pier)
BEACH HOPPING FUN TOUR
Drinks provided
$55
exceptional value
This is a Fun Tour that incorporates two great Beaches, a tour of the Island and shopping plus plenty of drinks on board.
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After being picked up from the cruise port at 9 am we make a stop at Oyster Pond, a small lagoon surrounded by tall hills with luxury homes. The border between the islands two sides runs straight through the middle.
Next, we are off to one of the best beaches on the Islands, considered to be the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” This stunning strip of white sand with clear turquoise waters is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There is no shortage of bars, restaurants, and beach clubs to choose from, watch the colourful parasailing, kitesurfing, and hand gliding. We stay here for an hour and a half.
Our next stop is Marigot to scope out the shopping and market areas, enjoying the local food, have a delicious pain au chocolate form one of the local bakeries. Visit the famous West Indies shopping Mall or climb approx. a hundred steps to the old Fort. 45 min to an hour stop.
From the French Capital we head over to the most popular area on the Dutch side, which is Airport beach Maho area for 1-hour stop to watch the planes land and take off! And enjoy this beach. This spot is a unique ,where travellers flock to experience the thrilling rush of airplanes flying extremely close overhead. Great for those special photo ops.
Making our way from airport beach we go through the Simpson Bay area.
With so many restaurants to choose from and great local bands you will not be stuck for food and enjoyment .
Our last photo stop is on Cole Bay Hill where you can see the full Island layout of Simpson Bay, the airport area and neighbouring islands Anguilla, Statia and Seba.
From here we head back to Phillipsburg around 3 pm, where you can either choose to remain in the vehicle and head back to Port or for those who decide to stay here to do some sightseeing or shopping, you can walk back to the Port in about 12-15 minutes or take a taxi for around $3.
This Beach Hop/Shopping excursion lasts approximately five hours and to add to the fun a good supply of beer, water, sodas and rum punch are included on the bus.
If there are a number of ships in port or road restrictions, then timings may be subject to change to return you back on time to the ship.
Sky Explorer
Schooner
Sentry Hill View
Flying Dutchman
ULTIMATE BIG FOUR THRILL
including Transport
$163.15 /$154.40
Good news… Senior 65 and plus pay childs price, along with children 3-12 years old.
Our journey starts at the Port where we will be picked up and enjoy the thirty-minute scenic journey on route to Rockland Estate.
Emilio Wilson Museum
The Museum tells the powerful story of Trace Wilson who was born into slavery and her direct descendant Emilio Wilson. Guests will see depictions of what life was like on a plantation and learn about stories that earned Sint Maarten the nickname ‘The Friendly Island.’
Enjoy exploring the Estate and sampling St. Maarten delicacies, snacks and beverages at the Emilio’s Restaurant before taking another scenic drive back to the Port.
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Walking/hiking shoes mandatory (no high heels, sandals or flip flops), Long shorts or trousers (no skirts or dresses), Shirts/t-shirts with short or long sleeves recommended, Sun/Rain protection, Insect repellent,
Long hair must be tied back,
• The Rain Forest Adventure Park Is A No Smoking Property
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour
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SENTRY HILL
Enjoy breathtaking views before taking your orientation at the transfer station where you will put your safety equipment and harness system on for your Sentry Hill Zip Line flight over the mountain ridge.
Height Range: Minimum 52 – Maximum 80 Inches.
Weight Range: Minimum 80 Pounds (36kg) – Maximum Of 275 Pounds (125kg)
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THE SCHOONER RIDE
After embarking on the Soualiga Sky Explorer, you will be transferred to the mid-station for the Schooner Ride; where you’ll surf down the mountain in an inner tube through the curves and straightaways of a specially designed track. Then back on up on the Sky Explorer to Sentry.
Height Range: Minimum 42 – Maximum 80 Inches.
Weight: Maximum 275 Pounds (125kg).
Children Must Be Able To Hold On At All Times As It Is One Person Per Tube.
Schooner Ride Only Permits One Per Tube
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THE FLYING DUTCHMAN
The main attraction and the steepest zip line in the world. Guests experience the thrill of a lifetime, harnessed in a chair and launched down the mountain on a flight line dropping 1050 feet in elevation over 2800 ft. It will feel like being in a Parachute, without the jumping out the plane bit!
Height Range: Min. 52 – Max. 80 Inches.
Weight Range: Min. 100 (45kg) – Max. 275 Pounds (125kg)
-
THE SOUALIGA SKY EXPLORER
After a brief orientation, embark the Sky Explorer for the approximately 25-minute ride gliding up to top of the mountain range at Sentry Hill, St. Maarten’s highest elevation at 1,125 feet. A series of platforms encircle the mountaintop showcasing 360-degree views of the whole island including vistas of neighbouring islands Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barts and Anguilla. This tranquil ride up two lifts spanning a total of 2,997 ft. as the landscape unfolds below. The Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlifts are comprised of sixty-eight and four-passenger chairs
SKY EXPLORER + FLYING DUTCHMAN
Good news… Senior 65 plus pay childrens prices along with children 3-12 years old.
Our journey starts at the Port where we will be picked up and enjoy the thirty-minute scenic journey on route to Rockland Estate.
Emilio Wilson Museum
The Museum tells the powerful story of Trace Wilson who was born into slavery and her direct descendant Emilio Wilson. Guests will see depictions of what life was like on a plantation and learn about stories that earned Sint Maarten the nickname ‘The Friendly Island.
After your chosen activity enjoy exploring the Estate and sampling St. Maarten delicacies, snacks and beverages at the Emilio’s Restaurant before taking another scenic drive back to the Port or taking the optional trip to Moho Beach.
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour. If you take the afternoon beach you will be transported across to the wonderful famous Moho beach for an optional price of $15 and picked up at 2.30-3 pm before the traffic builds up.
$119.65/
$106.90
-
Walking/hiking shoes mandatory (no high heels, sandals or flip flops), Long shorts or trousers (no skirts or dresses), Shirts/t-shirts with short or long sleeves recommended, Sun/Rain protection, Insect repellent,
Long hair must be tied back,
• The Rain Forest Adventure Park Is A No Smoking Property
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour
-
THE FLYING DUTCHMAN
The main attraction and the steepest zip line in the world. Guests experience the thrill of a lifetime, harnessed in a chair and launched down the mountain on a flight line dropping 1050 feet in elevation over 2800 ft. It will feel like being in a Parachute, without the jumping out the plane bit!
Height Range: Min. 52 – Max. 80 Inches.
Weight Range: Min. 100 (45kg) – Max. 275 Pounds (125kg)
-
THE SOUALIGA SKY EXPLORER
After a brief orientation, embark the Sky Explorer for the approximately 25-minute ride gliding up to top of the mountain range at Sentry Hill, St. Maarten’s highest elevation at 1,125 feet. A series of platforms encircle the mountaintop showcasing 360-degree views of the whole island including vistas of neighbouring islands Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barts and Anguilla. This tranquil ride up two lifts spanning a total of 2,997 ft. as the landscape unfolds below. The Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlifts are comprised of sixty-eight and four-passenger chairs
SKY EXPLORER 360 DEGREE VIEW
Good news… Senior 65 plus pay childrens prices along with children 3-12 years old.
$83 /$73.65
Our journey starts at the Port where we will be picked up and enjoy the thirty-minute scenic journey on route to Rockland Estate.
Emilio Wilson Museum
The Museum tells the powerful story of Trace Wilson who was born into slavery and her direct descendant Emilio Wilson. Guests will see depictions of what life was like on a plantation and learn about stories that earned Sint Maarten the nickname ‘The Friendly Island.
-
Walking/hiking shoes mandatory (no high heels, sandals or flip flops), Long shorts or trousers (no skirts or dresses), Shirts/t-shirts with short or long sleeves recommended, Sun/Rain protection, Insect repellent,
Long hair must be tied back,
• The Rain Forest Adventure Park Is A No Smoking Property
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour
-
SENTRY HILL
Enjoy breathtaking views before taking your orientation at the transfer station where you will put your safety equipment and harness system on for your Sentry Hill Zip Line flight over the mountain ridge.
Height Range: Minimum 52 – Maximum 80 Inches.
Weight Range: Minimum 80 Pounds (36kg) – Maximum Of 275 Pounds (125kg)
-
THE SOUALIGA SKY EXPLORER
After a brief orientation, embark the Sky Explorer for the approximately 25-minute ride gliding up to top of the mountain range at Sentry Hill, St. Maarten’s highest elevation at 1,125 feet. A series of platforms encircle the mountaintop showcasing 360-degree views of the whole island including vistas of neighbouring islands Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barts and Anguilla. This tranquil ride up two lifts spanning a total of 2,997 ft. as the landscape unfolds below. The Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlifts are comprised of sixty-eight and four-passenger chairs
SKY EXPLORER + SCHOONER
Good news… Senior 65 plus pay childrens prices along with children 3-12 years old.
$119.65
/$106.90
Our journey starts at the Port where we will be picked up and enjoy the thirty-minute scenic journey on route to Rockland Estate.
Emilio Wilson Museum
The Museum tells the powerful story of Trace Wilson who was born into slavery and her direct descendant Emilio Wilson. Guests will see depictions of what life was like on a plantation and learn about stories that earned Sint Maarten the nickname ‘The Friendly Island.
After your activity enjoy exploring the Estate and sampling St. Maarten delicacies, snacks and beverages at the Emilio’s Restaurant before taking another scenic drive back to the Port or taking the optional trip to Moho Beach.
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour. If you take the afternoon beach you will be transported across to the wonderful famous Moho beach for an optional price of $15 and picked up at 2.30-3 pm before the traffic builds up.
-
Walking/hiking shoes mandatory (no high heels, sandals or flip flops), Long shorts or trousers (no skirts or dresses), Shirts/t-shirts with short or long sleeves recommended, Sun/Rain protection, Insect repellent,
Long hair must be tied back,
• The Rain Forest Adventure Park Is A No Smoking Property
*This tour which will last for approximately 3 hour
-
THE SCHOONER RIDE
After embarking on the Soualiga Sky Explorer, you will be transferred to the mid-station for the Schooner Ride; where you’ll surf down the mountain in an inner tube through the curves and straightaways of a specially designed track. Then back on up on the Sky Explorer to Sentry.
Height Range: Minimum 42 – Maximum 80 Inches.
Weight: Maximum 275 Pounds (125kg).
Children Must Be Able To Hold On At All Times As It Is One Person Per Tube.
Schooner Ride Only Permits One Per Tube
-
THE SOUALIGA SKY EXPLORER
After a brief orientation, embark the Sky Explorer for the approximately 25-minute ride gliding up to top of the mountain range at Sentry Hill, St. Maarten’s highest elevation at 1,125 feet. A series of platforms encircle the mountaintop showcasing 360-degree views of the whole island including vistas of neighbouring islands Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barts and Anguilla. This tranquil ride up two lifts spanning a total of 2,997 ft. as the landscape unfolds below. The Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlifts are comprised of sixty-eight and four-passenger chairs