Best Sailing Catamaran, Beach and Snorkel – Cruise Ship Friendly

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in St. Maarten, this 6-hour sailing and snorkeling tour might just be what you need. From what we’ve seen in reviews and tour descriptions, it offers a lively mix of Caribbean scenery, delicious food, and fun in the sun—all aboard a comfortable catamaran designed to make every moment enjoyable.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the friendly, professional crew—who seem genuinely dedicated to making everyone comfortable—and the multiple swim and snorkel stops that allow you to experience different parts of the coast. Plus, the onboard Caribbean-style barbecue lunch and open bar promise a relaxed, authentic island vibe.

However, one consideration is the group size. While many travelers find the experience intimate and well-managed, some reviews suggest that the boat can sometimes be crowded, which might diminish the feeling of exclusivity for those seeking a more private trip.

This experience suits families, couples, and groups of friends who enjoy active, social days with plenty of scenic downtime. If you’re keen on seeing the coastline, snorkeling with gear supplied, and enjoying good food and drinks, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and opportunities for plane spotting at Maho Beach
• Multiple stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on gorgeous beaches
• Delicious Caribbean barbecue lunch and open bar included in the price
• Comfortable, easy boarding from Bobby’s Marina, with amenities like shade, fresh water showers, and electric toilets
• Flexible stops according to weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience
• Ideal for families, cruise passengers, and those seeking a relaxed day on the water

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour delivers a well-rounded day on the water, with a series of stops that balance active snorkeling with relaxing beach time. From the moment you step aboard at Bobby’s Marina, you’re greeted by a clean, well-maintained vessel and a crew that seems eager to show you a good time.

First Stop: Great Bay Beach

You’ll board the catamaran directly from the dock—no fuss, no long walks. The tour kicks off with a short sail along the south coast, giving you your first taste of the island’s beauty. This initial approach sets the tone: calm waters, scenic views, and the chance to settle in before the first adventure.

Snorkeling at Little Bay

As you arrive at Little Bay, the crew will hand out snorkeling gear and offer a brief instruction, especially helpful for beginners. The underwater world here is a highlight, with reviews praising the clarity and variety of marine life. One guest noted, “Snorkeling instruction was provided, and I loved exploring the underwater statues and the sunken helicopter.” Expect about an hour of underwater exploration, with the option to swim or simply relax on the boat.

Beach and Floating Bar Moments

Throughout the day, the boat will anchor at other prime spots—like Mullet Bay and Baie Longue—both famous for their turquoise waters and white sands. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy the floating bar with tropical drinks. Many reviews highlight the delicious Caribbean barbecue served onboard—ribs, chicken, island rice, and potato salad—making the lunch a true feast.

Watching Planes Land at Maho Beach

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to watch planes land just overhead at Maho Beach. This spectacle is a crowd favorite, with travelers capturing photos of jets soaring mere feet above the shoreline. It’s a quirky but memorable part of the tour that adds a dash of excitement.

Return Sail and Relaxation

As the day winds down, you’ll sail back to Philipsburg, with the shoreline and the airport in view. The crew offers happy hour with Rhum Punch or Caribbean beers, perfect for reflecting on the day’s adventures.

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour offers a blend of active and relaxing moments. Expect to snorkel in clear waters, enjoy a variety of beach stops, and indulge in a hearty barbecue lunch. The open bar means you can sip local drinks throughout the day, which many find enhances the laid-back Caribbean vibe.

The group size usually caps at 30, helping maintain an intimate atmosphere, though one review flagged a larger capacity with 50 on board. The crew’s attentiveness is frequently praised, with many guests mentioning how they go out of their way to ensure safety and fun.

Snorkeling and Beach Stops

The snorkeling spots are generally praised for their visibility and marine life. The crew provides gear and instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers. The stops for swimming at beaches like Mullet Bay are often described as picture-perfect—white sands, calm waters, and ideal for relaxing or taking photos.

Food and Drinks

The onboard barbecue is often highlighted as a standout feature. Guests rave about the tasty ribs, chicken, and island rice, served buffet-style with plenty for everyone. The open bar includes beer, Mount Gay Rhum Punch, sodas, and water, ensuring everyone stays refreshed during the warm Caribbean day.

Views and Atmosphere

Travelers love the scenic sailing along the coast, with some describing it as a “magical experience.” The floating bar and noodles add a playful element to the day, making it more than just a boat trip—it’s a celebration.

The Value of This Tour

At $122.08 per person, the price includes a lot—snorkeling gear, a generous barbecue lunch, drinks, and the experience of sailing along a stunning coastline. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the value for money, especially considering the variety of stops and activities packed into the day.

Given the positive comments, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and quality, offering a memorable day that suits a wide range of travelers—from families to seasoned island explorers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re visiting St. Maarten and want a fun, well-organized day on the water with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and enjoy local cuisine, this trip is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for cruise passengers needing a convenient, entertaining excursion. Families with children, thanks to the attentive crew and safe environment, also find it appealing.

However, if you’re seeking a more exclusive or private experience, you might find the group size a bit larger than ideal. Likewise, snorkelers wanting extensive underwater exploration might prefer tours with longer snorkeling times or more focused marine stops.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran tour in St. Maarten offers a fantastic mix of breathtaking coastal views, fun snorkeling, and a hearty Caribbean feast. The friendly crew, relaxed atmosphere, and variety of stops make it a popular choice among travelers—and the many glowing reviews testify to its consistent quality.

The tour’s balance of active and leisurely moments, combined with the chance to see planes land from Maho Beach, creates a very memorable experience. It’s suitable for a wide range of visitors looking to get the most out of a day at sea without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In short, if you want a well-rounded, value-packed day in St. Maarten with plenty of photo ops, good food, and fun in the sun, this sailing and snorkeling adventure is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy multiple stops and onboard amenities.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers snorkeling equipment, a Caribbean-style barbecue lunch, open bar with beers, Rhum Punch, sodas, and water, as well as snacks like mini baguettes and tuna salad.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention taking grandchildren and feeling comfortable with the crew’s attentiveness and safety measures.

What should I wear?
Casual beachwear, swimwear under clothes, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. Don’t forget your towel and waterproof camera.

Are the stops weather-dependent?
Yes, alternate stops may be chosen based on weather conditions, ensuring safety and a pleasant experience.

Is the group size large?
Typically, the tour caps at 30 travelers, but some reviews mention larger capacities. Check with the provider if a smaller group is preferred.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours, and it’s non-refundable.

Do I need snorkeling experience?
No, snorkeling instruction is provided, and the gear is supplied, making it accessible for beginners.

How close do the planes land at Maho Beach?
The planes land just overhead, providing a dramatic view that’s often highlighted as a memorable part of the tour.

This sailing and snorkeling tour in St. Maarten combines the best of island scenery, marine fun, and Caribbean hospitality—all at a very reasonable price. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it promises a lively, authentic taste of island life in a safe and well-organized setting.