If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring the stunning coastlines and hidden spots of St Maarten, this private full-day catamaran sailing tour might just be your perfect escape. With a glowing 5.0 out of 5-star rating from nearly 100 reviews, it’s clear that travelers love the combination of personalized service, beautiful scenery, and tasty food.
What really draws people in are the flexibility of the experience, the amazing crew, and the unique access to parts of the island only visible from the water. Plus, with everything from snorkeling gear to paddleboards included, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the Caribbean’s aquatic wonders. The only potential consideration is the weather—beautiful days are essential for the full experience, but the tour offers full refunds or alternative dates if the skies aren’t cooperating.
This adventure suits those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and active fun, want to see the island from a different perspective, and are comfortable with a private, customizable outing. It’s ideal for groups celebrating special occasions, families, or anyone wanting a memorable day on the water in Sint Maarten.
- Good To Know
- An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Sailing Tour
- The Itinerary: What makes each stop special?
- Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing
- Gourmet meals and unlimited drinks
- The crew and boat stability
- Practical Considerations and Tips
- Who Should Book This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Private Tours in St Maarten
- More Boat Tours in St Maarten
- More Tour Reviews in St Maarten
- Looking for something different? Other St Maarten activities we've written about
Good To Know

- Private and customizable: Tailor your day to suit your group’s interests and pace.
- All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment are provided.
- Stunning scenic stops: Explore Tintamarre Island, La Samanna, Creole Rock, and more.
- Excellent crew and safety: Professional captains and stable boats ensure a smooth trip.
- Value for money: With a full day of activities, gourmet food, and unlimited drinks, it’s a premium experience.
- Weather-dependent: Clear skies are essential for the best experience, with flexible rescheduling if needed.
An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Sailing Tour

Enjoy boat trips? More St Maarten water tours we've written about
The Itinerary: What makes each stop special?
This full-day private charter is designed to showcase the best of St Maarten’s waters. Starting at 9:00 am from Simpson Bay, the journey begins with a gentle cruise along the coast, giving you your first sweeping views of the island from the water. The highlights include visits to La Samanna—famous for its luxury and exclusivity—and Creole Rock, renowned as the island’s top snorkeling site.
One of the most praised stops is Tintamarre Island, where travelers often report swimming with turtles and relaxing on pristine beaches. As one reviewer noted, “Our family enjoyed a private beach and an incredible lunch,” highlighting how exclusive and peaceful this spot feels. The crew’s local knowledge makes spotting wildlife and finding the best snorkeling spots a breeze.
Throughout the cruise, you’ll get to see parts of the island only accessible by water, which adds a layer of exclusivity. The circumnavigation of St. Maarten/St. Martin provides a comprehensive view of this diverse island, from lively bays to secluded beaches.
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing
The equipment is supplied, so whether you’re a novice or experienced snorkeler, you can expect to see plenty of fish and vibrant reef life. Reviewers rave about the quality of the gear and the crew’s tips—one mentioned that they visited the top snorkeling site for fish and even swam with turtles at Tintamarre Island.
If you prefer being active, stand-up paddleboards are available, and for those interested in fishing, trolling rods are on board. This variety keeps the day dynamic and engaging.
Gourmet meals and unlimited drinks
A major highlight, according to reviews, is the delicious food served throughout the day. Expect a gouda cheese platter, fresh baguette, and a Caribbean barbecue lunch. The lunch is substantial enough to satisfy hungry sailors, with salads and hot BBQ dishes.
Beverages flow freely with an open bar offering beer, rum, rum punch, vodka, gin, and whiskey. Many reviewers appreciated the thoughtful selection, noting that they could relax with cold drinks in hand while enjoying the sun or shade—whichever they preferred.
The crew and boat stability
The positive reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, especially captains Louise and Tonya, who are credited with making the day enjoyable and seamless. The boats themselves are described as extremely stable, ideal for those who might worry about seasickness or rough waters.
The crew’s experience and the boat’s handling make a big difference in creating a relaxed, safe atmosphere. They’re also accommodating, helping with children, service animals, or special requests—making this a truly inclusive experience.
Prefer private tours? More St Maarten exclusive experiences we've written about
Practical Considerations and Tips
- Duration and timing: The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, perfectly fitting into a full-day plan. Starting at 9:00 am allows for a leisurely pace.
- Group size: The tour permits up to 15 people, but it’s a private experience, so your group gets exclusive attention.
- Price and value: At $2,800 for up to 15, the cost breaks down to about $187 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized service, food, drinks, and all equipment included.
- Weather dependence: Since this is a water-based tour, clear weather is key to enjoying the experience fully. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.
- Accessibility: While the boat is very stable, guests in wheelchairs can be assisted up to the boat but cannot stay onboard comfortably. Service animals are permitted with prior approval.
Who Should Book This Tour?

This private catamaran tour is ideal for small groups or families looking for a luxurious yet laid-back way to explore St Maarten. Perfect for celebrating special occasions, it offers exclusivity, flexibility, and incredible scenery. Those who enjoy snorkeling, good food, and drinks will find it particularly satisfying.
If you prefer a structured, guided tour, this might not be for you, but if you love customizing your day and having it all tailored to your preferences, it’s an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts

This full-day private catamaran experience in St Maarten offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet dining. The emphasis on personalized service, stunning scenic stops, and inclusive activities makes it stand out among island excursions. Reviews consistently praise the crew, the food, and the unique access to hidden spots only water can reveal.
It’s a fantastic way to see the island from a fresh perspective while enjoying all the comforts of a private charter—think of it as your very own floating luxury retreat in the Caribbean. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an extraordinary day on the water, this tour delivers a memorable experience.
FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at 88 Welfare Rd, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, with pickup at the same location at the end.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, snorkel, and relax.
Is food and drinks included?
Yes, a gourmet BBQ lunch, snacks, bottled water, coffee, tea, and unlimited drinks from the open bar are all included.
Can I bring my own alcohol or food?
No, all beverages are provided as part of the experience. Bringing your own alcohol may not be permitted; check with the provider beforehand.
What activities are available onboard?
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing are included, so you can enjoy the water in multiple ways.
Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Wheelchair access is limited to the boat’s entry points, but assistance is available—onboard mobility is limited.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people can join the private tour?
Up to 15 guests maximum, ensuring a personalized experience.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and an adventurous spirit are recommended. Most equipment and essentials are provided.
Choosing this private catamaran tour means opting for a flexible, fun-filled day that offers a rare glimpse of St Maarten’s coastlines and underwater treasures. With excellent reviews backing its quality, it’s a fantastic way to turn a day in the Caribbean into a truly memorable escape.
More Private Tours in St Maarten
- Private Snorkeling Charter to Pinel, Tintamarre islands and more
- Philipsburg Port to Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) – Departure Private Transfer
- Private Tour Jet Ski in Saint Martin
- Private Tour Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit and Star Wars Celebrity
- St Maarten Island Private Group Tour
- Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) to Philipsburg Port – Round-Trip Private Transfer
More Boat Tours in St Maarten
More Tour Reviews in St Maarten
- Party Bus Bar Hopping Nightlife in Sint Maarten
- Private Snorkeling Charter to Pinel, Tintamarre islands and more
- St. Maarten Best Island Tour
- Philipsburg Port to Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) – Departure Private Transfer
- Private Tour Jet Ski in Saint Martin
- Private Tour Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit and Star Wars Celebrity
Looking for something different? Other St Maarten activities we've written about
- Private Full-Day Catamaran Sailing Charter in St Maarten
- Private Tropical Gondola Dinner Cruise Simpson Bay
- Private Snorkeling Charter to Pinel, Tintamarre islands and more
- Two Islands, Twice the Fun
- St. Maarten Best Island Tour
- 12 Best Guided Tours In St Maarten
- 25 Best Tours In St Maarten
- 5 Best Shopping Tours In St Maarten
- 25 Best Sailing Experiences In St Maarten
- 7 Best Historical Tours In St Maarten
- 13 Best Snorkeling Experiences In St Maarten
- 11 Best Full-Day Tours In St Maarten
