2 days 1 night by private catamaran from St Martin to St Barth

A First Look at the 2-Day Private Catamaran Trip from St Martin to St Barth

This review covers an exclusive two-day, one-night adventure aboard a private catamaran, offering a luxurious way to explore the waters of the Caribbean between St Martin and St Barth. Although I haven’t personally sailed this route, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and included features paint a picture of a truly memorable experience.

What draws us to this trip are three main points: the chance for intimate and flexible sailing, the stunning stops at pristine beaches and islands, and the gourmet meals served on board.

A potential consideration is the price, which is quite steep at over $3,800 per group, but for many, the exclusivity and tailored experience justify the cost.

This tour suits travelers who value luxury, privacy, and scenic exploration, and who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, such as swimming or walking on islands.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your preferences
• Stunning sea views and exclusive access to hidden beaches
• All meals included, offering a luxurious culinary experience
• Flexible itinerary with stops at notable islands and beaches
• Ideal for small groups (up to 4 people) seeking privacy and comfort
• Limited booking window—best to plan well in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Overall Atmosphere

This journey is more than just a boat trip; it’s a chance to indulge in Caribbean luxury. The boat, a spacious and well-equipped catamaran, becomes your floating retreat — a perfect blend of comfort, style, and adventure. The private nature of the trip means that your group’s wishes shape the itinerary, making it highly personalized.

The reviews highlight a sense of exclusivity. One traveler described the experience as “simply amazing,” emphasizing the memorable nights sleeping under the starry sky and Sophie and Kareem’s attention to detail, from five-star meals to the gentle sea breezes.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Exploring by Sea and Nature

Starting at the Public Dinghy Dock in Grand-Case around 9:00 am, you’ll board your private vessel for the adventure. The first stop, Anse Marcel, offers a chance to admire its beautiful beach from the water. It’s a calm, scenic spot perfect for a quick photo or a dip in the sea.

Next, the boat cruises past Pinel Island’s back, a view many find charming and peaceful. Although not a stop, it provides a visual treat of this beloved island.

Then, the journey takes you to Oriental Bay, famous for its lively restaurants, beach bars, and water sports. It’s a vibrant area where you might get a taste of local Caribbean life before heading further.

The highlight of the day is anchoring at Île Fourchue, part of the Forchue Nature Reserve. Here, you’ll have several hours to swim with turtles, explore the island, or relax on the deck. The reviews praise this stop as a “paradise,” with the chance to enjoy lunch anchored in the middle of the day.

In the late afternoon, the boat sails to Colombier Beach, accessible only by boat or on foot. This secluded spot is perfect for unwinding, swimming, or simply soaking up the scenery. The experience of anchoring on a buoy overnight adds a touch of exclusivity and adventure.

Day 2: Discovering Local Charm and Natural Wonders

After a relaxed morning and breakfast on board, the boat heads towards Gustavia, the capital of St Barth. You’ll have four hours to explore this chic town at your own pace. Known for its red-roofed buildings and luxury shops, Gustavia offers a mix of high-end boutiques, local cafes, and historical sites.

The final notable stop is Tintamarre, a stunning nature reserve with brilliant colors, from turquoise waters to white sands and red rocks. While not a stop in every tour, the reviews mention it as a “marvelous” scenery that leaves a lasting impression.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Meals are a highlight of this tour — breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with the latter often being a highlight as guests rave about “Sophie’s five-star meals.” The flexibility of dining on board adds to the sense of a bespoke experience.

However, lunch in Gustavia isn’t included, giving you the option to explore local restaurants or enjoy a picnic on your own. Tips are customary, typically between 15-20%, for attentive crew members.

The Experience of Being on Board

Travelers praise the crew’s professionalism and the boat’s comfort. The vessel, Zephyr, provides a smooth sailing experience, and the night spent anchored under the stars is a standout memory — described as “sleeping under the stars” being particularly magical.

The boat’s private nature means that the crew can adapt the schedule based on your wishes, whether that’s extra swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.

Timing, Price, and Booking

The tour lasts approximately two days and one night, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Grand-Case. Costing $3,836 for up to four people, this experience is definitely a splurge but offers unmatched intimacy and flexibility compared to group tours.

Booking typically opens around 184 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those seeking a luxurious escape.

What the Reviews Say

The sole review so far calls the trip “simply amazing,” emphasizing the unforgettable nights on board Zephyr. The reviewer noted the breeze, starry nights, and attention to detail as highlights, alongside the delicious meals prepared onboard.

This echoes what many would hope for: a seamless blend of comfort, adventure, and personalized service. The review also hints that the crew, including guides Sophie and Kareem, are dedicated to making the experience memorable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private catamaran experience is perfect for small groups or couples seeking a luxurious, intimate getaway. It’s ideal for those who love yachting, scenic exploration, and gourmet dining in a laid-back Caribbean setting.

Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity — swimming, walking on islands, and getting on and off the boat. It’s also suited for those willing to invest in a high-end experience rooted in privacy and exclusivity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who cherish luxury, personalized service, and unforgettable scenery, this trip offers exceptional value. The ability to customize your stops, sleep under the stars, and enjoy gourmet meals in a stunning setting makes it stand out among Caribbean excursions.

While the price is on the higher side, the opportunity to explore hidden beaches, enjoy fine food, and relax without the crowds justifies the expense for many. It’s a rare chance to feel truly pampered at sea, with every detail taken care of by attentive crew.

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity and want an authentic, quiet escape rather than a large-group tour. If that sounds like your ideal Caribbean adventure, this private catamaran trip could be the highlight of your trip to St Martin and St Barth.

FAQ

Is this trip suitable for children?
While the tour description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the moderate physical activity involved and the focus on relaxation suggest it’s more suited for adult travelers or children comfortable with boat travel.

How many people can join the tour?
This is a private experience for up to four people per group, making it perfect for small families, couples, or friends.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with the meals prepared onboard. The quality and presentation are highly praised.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since the boat is privatized for your group, the crew can adapt stops to your preferences, whether for swimming, exploring islands, or relaxing.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a light jacket for the evening, and any personal essentials. The boat provides most amenities, but it’s good to be prepared.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to six days in advance for a full refund. The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather might result in rescheduling or full refund.

Is there any special equipment provided?
While not explicitly mentioned, stops are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, so bring your gear if you wish to explore underwater life.

In essence, this private Caribbean sailing adventure offers a blend of luxury, flexibility, and scenic beauty that’s hard to match. Perfect for those looking to indulge in a quiet, tailored escape with stunning views and gourmet food.