Private tours in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten cut through the cruise-ship crowds and offer intimate, personalized experiences of this Dutch-French island. The standout option is the “Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour” – it’s a gem that consistently ranks near-perfect with travelers, letting you set the pace and avoid the tourist traps. We love the “Pelican Private Tour” for its generous 5-hour format combining local food stops with duty-free shopping and an open bar – it’s practical and fun, just how Caribbean exploring should be. The “Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour” wins points for its flexibility, letting travelers focus on their specific interests while navigating both the Dutch and French sides. Ready to explore the best private tour options? Let’s look at our top picks.
Key Points
- Highly-rated private sightseeing tours in Philipsburg offer personalized experiences, customizable itineraries, and professional guides knowledgeable about local attractions.
- The Pelican Private Tour features an open bar, duty-free shopping, local cuisine sampling, and visits to notable landmarks and an iguana farm.
- Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tours from Philipsburg provide flexible itineraries, hotel/cruise port pickup and drop-off, and intimate experiences for up to 8 passengers.
- Customizable Island Sightseeing Tours allow guests to design their own itinerary and enjoy a climate-controlled van, open bar, and optional activities like snorkeling.
- Private tour providers in Philipsburg offer unique experiences, free cancellation, and reserve now, pay later options, ensuring an enjoyable exploration of St Maarten.
The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
For those seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of St. Maarten, the “Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour” is a top choice. This private tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 384 reviews.
The customizable itinerary allows guests to tailor the experience to their interests, whether that’s swimming at Mullet Bay, indulging in duty-free shopping, or savoring local cuisine. Unique experiences, such as feeding iguanas, visiting Fort Louis, and witnessing plane landings at Maho Beach, further enhance the tour’s appeal.
Travelers will ride in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy the convenience of private transportation with cruise port and hotel pickup and drop-off. Bottled water is provided, and guests are encouraged to bring towels and changing clothes for swimming.
The tour is led by certified professionals who are knowledgeable about the island’s history and attractions. Praised for their friendliness, expertise, and ability to create memorable experiences, guides like Raj and Mama Gucci ensure a truly exceptional tour.
Read our full review: The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour Review
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St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour
Travelers often choose the St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour for a personalized exploration of the island’s history, culture, and natural wonders. This 5-hour tour starts at 9 AM and includes admission to all stops, an open bar, and opportunities for duty-free shopping and local cuisine sampling.
With 76 reviews and a 4.7 rating, the tour has a 93% traveler recommendation. Pickup is available at hotels or cruise ships, and the tour is private, ensuring a tailored experience for your group.
Highlights include visiting notable landmarks, beaches, and an iguana farm, as well as enjoying seafood and pastries.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Sean and Nerleen, who customize the tour to travelers’ interests. While a few issues with pickup and health concerns have been mentioned, the overall sentiment reflects the value of a private tour over larger group excursions.
At $100 per person, the St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour offers an immersive and memorable way to discover the island.
Read our full review: St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour Review
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Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg
The Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg offers travelers a personalized exploration of the island’s diverse attractions.
This private tour features a flexible and customizable itinerary, allowing guests to focus on their interests, whether it’s beach hopping, shopping, sightseeing, or experiencing the local cuisine. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the island at your own pace.
Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional driver/guide, and complimentary beverages such as water, soft drinks, beer, and guavaberry rum punch. Gratuities are also covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With a maximum capacity of 8 passengers per vehicle, the tour provides an intimate and personalized setting.
Cruise ship passengers can easily join the tour, as the booking process accommodates their specific schedule. The tour is also accessible for those with collapsible wheelchairs, and service animals are welcome.
Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, the Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour promises an enjoyable and memorable way to explore the island.
Read our full review: Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour From Philipsburg Review
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Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten
Designed for travelers seeking a personalized exploration of St Maarten, this private customizable island sightseeing tour offers a flexible and immersive experience. Lasting between 5 to 6 hours, the tour departs from the EDC Parking Lot in Philipsburg and allows guests to design their own itinerary, visiting attractions like Maho Beach, Orient Beach, Marigot, Philipsburg, and Grand Case.
Complemented by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour features a reserved climate-controlled van for personal use, enabling guests to explore the island at their own pace. Travelers can also opt for snorkeling equipment and discover local food spots and hidden gems.
With a recommended rating of 90% from 21 reviews, the tour includes a complimentary open bar and flexibility to adjust plans based on group preferences. Priced from $550 per group (up to 5 people), the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Private Tours?
Most private tour providers have flexible cancellation policies, allowing customers to cancel or reschedule their tours up to 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled departure time without incurring any fees. However, specific policies may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator.
Do the Tours Accommodate Guests With Disabilities?
Many private tour providers in the area offer accommodations for guests with disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and guides trained to assist those with special needs. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility options when booking a tour.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Specific Interests?
Most private tour providers offer customized experiences to accommodate guests’ specific interests. They can tailor the itinerary, activities, and pace to match the group’s preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized tour.
How Do I Book and Pay for These Private Tours?
Booking private tours often involves contacting the tour provider directly. Customers can typically pay online or in person upon arrival. Payment options may include credit/debit cards, cash, or digital wallets. Tour providers can explain their booking and payment process to customize the experience.
What Is the Average Group Size for These Private Tours?
The average group size for private tours typically ranges from 2 to 8 participants. This allows for a more personalized experience and enables the guide to cater to the group’s specific interests and needs.
The Sum Up
Private tours in Philipsburg, St. Maarten offer visitors a personalized sightseeing experience. They can explore the island’s top attractions, learn about its history and culture, and customize the itinerary to their interests. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, these tours provide a convenient and efficient way to make the most of one’s time on the island.