Two excellent shopping tours await visitors to St. Maarten. The VIP option gives you a personal guide and red-carpet treatment, with stops at the island’s best jewelry shops, cigar stores, and rum producers. We especially love the flexibility to customize your route and the expert local insights. For budget travelers, the small group tour (max 15 people) leaves right from the cruise terminal and hits all the key shopping spots – a smart choice for value-minded shoppers.
Both tours consistently earn top marks from fellow travelers. I’m particularly impressed with their focus on authentic local merchants rather than tourist traps.
Let’s explore these shopping adventures:
Key Points
- The Private V.I.P. Tour offers a personalized shopping experience, featuring a red carpet welcome, visits to cigar and jewelry shops, and rum production centers.
- The Small Group Shore Excursion provides an intimate shopping tour with a 5.0 rating, accessible pickup from the Saint Maarten Cruise Terminal, and flexible scheduling.
- Both tour options offer budget-friendly pricing, with the Private V.I.P. Tour priced at $500 for groups of up to 10 and the Small Group Shore Excursion at SEK 1,415.09 per person.
- The tours feature air-conditioned transportation, coolers stocked with iced drinks, and professional guides to ensure a comfortable and informative shopping experience.
- While the tours are not wheelchair accessible, they accommodate most travelers and offer tailored itineraries to match diverse interests.
Private V.I.P Sightseeing, Shopping and Beach Tour
Offering a personalized experience, this private V.I.P. sightseeing, shopping, and beach tour in St. Maarten caters to travelers’ interests. The tour features a tailored itinerary to explore the island’s main attractions, including shopping for cigars, rum, fine jewelry, and touring production centers.
Guests receive a red carpet welcome and flower necklaces upon arrival, setting the tone for a luxurious experience. The tour is led by a professional guide in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort and convenience. A cooler stocked with iced drinks, including water, sodas, beers, and rum punch, ensures guests stay refreshed throughout the day.
The tour can be arranged with pickup from various accommodations across the island, making it easily accessible. Priced at $500 for groups of up to 10 people, the tour offers a budget-friendly option for a private, VIP-style experience.
With flexibility in cancellation and rescheduling, and a 4.9-star rating from past travelers, this tour promises a memorable and enjoyable shopping excursion in St. Maarten.
Read our full review: Private V.I.P Sightseeing, Shopping and Beach Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
St Maarten Shore Excursion:Sights, Shopping & Sand Small Group Tour
This small group shore excursion in St. Maarten is a popular choice for visitors looking to explore the island’s top sights, do some shopping, and enjoy the sandy beaches.
The tour has a 5.0 rating based on one review and can accommodate up to 15 travelers.
Highlights of the tour include beverages, though food isn’t specified.
The meeting and pickup point is at the Saint Maarten Cruise Terminal, and the tour returns to the same location.
The start time is 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, with the same schedule in 2024 and 2025.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
The price is SEK 1,415.09 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: St Maarten Shore Excursion:Sights, Shopping & Sand Small Group Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Multiple Tours?
Many tour companies offer discounts or package deals for customers who book multiple tours. Travelers can often save money by purchasing a bundle of tours rather than booking each one individually. It’s worth checking with the tour provider about any available package discounts.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?
Yes, most tour operators offer the flexibility to customize itineraries based on your specific interests. You can work with them to focus on the types of shops, activities, or experiences that appeal to you most.
How Do I Ensure the Safety of My Belongings During the Tour?
To ensure the safety of your belongings during the tour, ask the tour operator about their luggage storage policies. Many offer secure storage options so you can shop hands-free and focus on enjoying the experience.
Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tours?
Most shopping tours don’t have strict age or mobility restrictions, but participants should consider their physical abilities. Providers often accommodate guests with limited mobility, so it’s best to discuss any concerns before booking. It’s always wise to check the tour details.
What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Unforeseen Circumstances?
Most tour companies offer flexible cancellation policies in case of unexpected events. Travelers should check the specific terms, which typically allow full refunds or rescheduling with advance notice, depending on the situation.
The Sum Up
St. Maarten offers a variety of shopping tours catering to different interests and budgets. Whether you prefer an exclusive VIP experience or a small-group excursion, you’ll find opportunities to explore the island’s top sights, browse its shops, and relax on its beaches. These tours provide a well-rounded introduction to the diverse attractions and activities that make St. Maarten a popular cruise destination.