Biking St. Maarten offers an efficient and fun way to explore this dual-nation island. Three standout tours consistently deliver excellent experiences: The Historical Philipsburg Tour packs the most cultural punch in its 3-hour route through the Dutch capital. I’m particularly fond of the E-Bike Sightseeing Tour, which smartly covers both French and Dutch sides – perfect for first-timers who want the full island experience. The Gem of the Island E-Bike Tour beautifully balances coastal views with strategic beach stops. Each tour provides helmets and accommodates average fitness levels. Let’s explore these top-rated bike adventures.
Key Points
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The Philipsburg Bike Tour offers a 3-hour guided historical exploration of the city’s key sites, including scenic views from Little Bay Hill and Fort Amsterdam.
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The St Maarten Sightseeing Tour by E-Bike provides a half-day adventure covering both the French and Dutch territories, with comfortable e-bikes and refreshments.
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The Gem of the Island Tour With E-Bike showcases the island’s beautiful coastal scenery and beach stops, with a focus on a personalized experience for up to 10 travelers.
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Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides enhance the historical context and storytelling, fostering a personalized experience for small groups.
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While the tours require a moderate fitness level, they are suitable for ages 5 and up, with a free cancellation policy and safety equipment provided.
Historical Philipsburg Bike Tour in St Maarten
The Historical Philipsburg Bike Tour in St Maarten offers a captivating exploration of the island’s rich history. This 3-hour tour takes participants on a leisurely cycling journey through the streets of Philipsburg, showcasing the island’s most significant historical landmarks.
Highlights of the tour include visits to the Philipsburg Courthouse, the Passangrahn Hotel (the oldest inn on the island), and the impressive Fort Amsterdam. Along the way, cyclists enjoy scenic views from Little Bay Hill and the fort itself.
The guided tour also includes a boardwalk return to the cruise port, providing a unique perspective of the town.
With 95 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, this tour is a popular choice for visitors to St Maarten. The knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Jenel and Marci, provide valuable historical context and personal stories, enhancing the overall experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility or medical conditions, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
Read our full review: Historical Philipsburg Bike Tour in St Maarten Review
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St Maarten Sightseeing Tour by E-Bike
Exploring the scenic French and Dutch sides of St. Maarten is a breeze on the St. Maarten Sightseeing Tour by E-Bike. This half-day adventure takes riders on a comprehensive journey, covering the highlights of both the French and Dutch territories.
Participants will cruise along the streets of Philipsburg, Marigot, and Fort Louis, guided by knowledgeable cycling experts who provide insights into the island’s rich history and culture.
The tour’s inclusion of e-bikes and helmets ensures a comfortable and safe experience, even on the hilly terrain. Refreshments such as bottled water, soda, and a complimentary drink help keep riders energized.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, it’s suitable for participants ages 5 and up who can ride a bike with gears.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, this sightseeing experience has earned a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 50 reviews, with 96% of travelers recommending the tour.
Read our full review: St Maarten Sightseeing Tour by E-Bike Review
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Gem of the Island Tour With E-Bike
Frequently, the Gem of The Island Tour with E-Bike takes riders on a captivating journey along St. Maarten’s coastline. This 100% recommended tour covers beautiful sights and beach stops, offering an active yet relaxed experience.
With an e-bike and helmet provided, along with bottled water, snacks, and a complimentary drink, guests can explore the island’s gems at their own pace.
The tour starts and ends at the Saint Maarten Cruise Terminal, near the Peter Stuyvesant statue. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, though it may not be ideal for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, and the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the convenience of the e-bikes, though some have noted the physical demands and steep hills, suggesting the tour may not be suitable for inexperienced riders.
Read our full review: Gem of the Island Tour With E-Bike Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tours?
Most bike tour companies allow riders to bring their own bikes. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour operator to confirm their policy on using personal bikes versus renting theirs for the tour.
Are Child-Friendly Bike Options Available?
Many bike tour companies offer child-friendly options, such as trailers, tandem bikes, or smaller-sized cycles. Families can inquire about these alternatives when booking to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for riders of all ages.
Do the Tours Offer Any Discounts for Seniors?
Many bike tour operators offer discounts for seniors, usually around 10-15% off the regular price. Customers should inquire about senior discounts when booking to take advantage of these savings.
Are the Bikes Equipped With Safety Features?
The bikes are typically equipped with safety features like helmets, brakes, and reflective gear to ensure riders’ well-being. Many tour operators prioritize safety and provide thorough safety instructions before the tours begin.
Can I Customize the Tour Route to My Preferences?
Yes, many bike tour companies allow you to customize the route to your preferences. This gives you more control over the sights you want to see and the pace of the tour.
The Sum Up
St. Maarten offers a variety of bike tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and local sights. Whether you opt for a guided tour through Philipsburg or an e-bike adventure, these experiences provide an eco-friendly and engaging way to discover the unique charm of this Caribbean destination.