Two Nations, One Sea: A Private Day Cruising St. Maarten/Saint Martin
Snorkel reefs, skim turquoise channels, and watch jets graze the beach—your boat, your pace, your Caribbean.
The morning sea wears that Caribbean shade that convinces you it’s lit from within—turquoise smoldering to cobalt at the horizon. You step aboard at Simpson Bay as the trade winds breathe across the lagoon, teasing flags and hair, urging the bow to point seaward. The captain eases the throttle and the hull hums; mangroves slip past like an opening curtain. Out on the open water, the island’s twin identities—Dutch and French—unfurl from the coast like a map made of headlands and hidden coves.
Trail Wisdom
Time the Planes at Maho
Arrive between late morning and mid-afternoon for the busiest jet schedule; ask your captain to anchor at a safe, off-beach angle to avoid jet wash.
Go Reef-Safe
Use mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen and wear a long-sleeve sun shirt to protect coral at Creole Rock and Tintamarre’s turtle grass beds.
Beat Motion Sickness
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before departure; the leeward side is usually calmer but conditions can change.
Cash for French-Side Beach Shacks
Some eateries on Pinel or in Grand Case prefer euros or cash; bring a small stash for lunch and chair rentals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Happy Bay’s quiet crescent beach, usually calmer than nearby hotspots
- •The north-side sandbar at Pinel Island for a quieter swim away from the main beach
Wildlife
Green and hawksbill sea turtles, Brown pelicans diving along reef edges
Conservation Note
This coastline includes marine reserve zones—use mooring buoys instead of anchoring on reef, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and give turtles space while snorkeling.
St. Martin/Sint Maarten has been shared by France and the Netherlands since the 1648 Treaty of Concordia, making it the smallest island divided between two nations.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Steady trade winds, Clear water snorkeling
Challenges: Occasional sargassum mats, Brief showers
March–May is reliably pleasant with manageable winds and good visibility, ideal for a multi-stop itinerary.
summer
Best for: Warmest water temps, Long beach days
Challenges: Afternoon squalls, Higher humidity and sargassum
June–August brings bath-warm seas and calm mornings; start early to avoid heat and pop-up storms.
fall
Best for: Fewer boats, Value pricing
Challenges: Peak hurricane season, Variable sea conditions
September–November can be stormy; flexible plans and close attention to forecasts are essential.
winter
Best for: Dry, sunny weather, Consistent trade winds
Challenges: Breezier days, Slightly cooler water
December–February is prime: crisp skies, lively but manageable winds, and excellent visibility across reef sites.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Long-Sleeve Sun Shirt (UPF 50+)Essential
Shields against strong UV while reducing sunscreen use that can harm reefs.
Reef-Safe Mineral SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and helps preserve coral health in the marine reserve.
Dry Bag (10–15L)
Keeps phone, wallet, and a spare layer dry during spray-heavy runs between bays.
Motion Sickness Prevention
A non-drowsy tablet or acupressure bands ensure comfort if seas get choppy.
Common Questions
Where do most private charters depart from on St. Maarten?
Many launch from Simpson Bay or nearby marinas on the Dutch side; exact pickup is confirmed after booking.
Do I need a passport to visit the French side by boat?
There are no routine checks when cruising between the Dutch and French sides, but carry a photo ID; your passport is required for international entry to Sint Maarten.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Most charters include masks, snorkels, and fins; bring your own if you prefer a custom fit.
Can children join this trip?
Yes—private charters are family-friendly. Request child-sized life jackets and plan shorter snorkel stops if needed.
What if the weather turns bad?
Captains monitor marine forecasts and may adjust the route or reschedule for safety; you’ll be notified of changes as early as possible.
Will I get cell service on the water?
Coverage is generally good nearshore, but roaming costs can shift between Dutch and French networks—check your plan before departure.
What to Pack
UPF sun shirt and hat to outsmart the tradewind sun; reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and coral; light cash and a card for French-side lunches and chair rentals; compact dry bag for phones, snacks, and a spare layer.
Did You Know
St. Martin/Sint Maarten is the smallest island in the world shared by two nations, divided peacefully since the Treaty of Concordia in 1648.
Quick Travel Tips
Book winter and early spring dates well ahead—charters fill quickly; Bring euros or a card with no foreign transaction fees for French-side stops; Ask your captain to plan around sargassum reports in late spring/summer; If flying in same day, schedule the charter after your arrival window to buffer delays.
Local Flavor
Refuel at the lolos in Grand Case for smoky grilled fish and boudin; back on the Dutch side, watch sunset with a cold beer at Karakter on Simpson Bay Beach. Rum fans can tour Topper’s Rhum for tastings, then catch live music along Welfare Road.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Princess Juliana International (SXM), 10–15 minutes from most marinas. Typical departure: Simpson Bay area. Drive time from Philipsburg: ~20 minutes, traffic permitting. Cell service: good nearshore, but roaming may switch between Dutch and French networks. Permits: None for guests on private charters; bring photo ID and your passport for island entry.
Sustainability Note
This coastline includes protected marine reserves—use provided moorings, never touch or stand on coral, skip single-use plastics, and keep a respectful distance from turtles and rays.
Continue Reading
Into the Blue: Diving Dahab’s Iconic Blue Hole
A deep vertical sinkhole on the Sinai coast, the Blue Hole draws divers, freedivers, and curious travelers with its dramatic drop and vibrant reef rim. Here’s a practical guide to experiencing it safely and respectfully.
Dahab, South Sinai
Lanai Island: Small-Island Solitude Between Maui and the Horizon
Lanai is an island of contrasts: protected reefs for effortless snorkeling, raw northshore coasts accessible only by 4x4, and high ridgelines that deliver sweeping views—all with few tourists and a quiet, deliberate pace.
Lanai City, Hawaii