Billy Bones St.Maarten Getaway for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS

A Practical Guide to the Billy Bones St. Maarten Getaway for Cruise Ship Guests

If you’re cruising into St. Maarten and looking for a way to see the island beyond the typical tourist spots, the Billy Bones boat tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience. This day-long adventure weaves together snorkeling, scenic island stops, and local dining, all delivered by friendly guides on a manageable six-hour schedule. It’s a popular choice, with a perfect rating of 5.0 from more than 140 reviews, and a high recommendation rate of 97%.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic island scenery and personalized service — the guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making the trip feel both relaxed and informative. Plus, the inclusive open bar, snacks, and lunch make it genuine value for the price of $139 per person. The only thing to consider is that the ocean can sometimes be a bit bumpy, which might not suit travelers with a sensitive stomach or those prone to seasickness.

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want to maximize their short time in port without feeling rushed, as well as those eager to explore secluded beaches and see marine life. If your goal is a laid-back, colorful day with plenty of snorkeling and local flavor, Billy Bones’ St. Maarten Getaway might just be your best bet.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Open bar, snacks, and lunch make for a hassle-free day on the water.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Multiple stops including snorkeling, beaches, and a local restaurant.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Rated highly for their friendliness, local insight, and attentiveness.
• Value for Money: For $139, you get a full six hours of activity, scenery, and local cuisine.
• Secluded Spots: Avoid crowds by visiting Tintamarre Island, Creole Rock, and Pinel Island.
• Weather Flexibility: The tour is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or refunds if canceled.

Exploring the Experience: What You’ll Actually Do

From the moment you arrive at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, you’ll notice how well-organized the experience is. The meeting point is straightforward, and the crew handles the logistics smoothly—crucial for cruise guests who often have tight schedules and disembarkation times. You’ll start the tour around 10 a.m., giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the island.

The first stop is Philipsburg, where the boat departs from Bobby’s Marina. It’s a short five-minute ride to the first snorkeling spot, Creole Rock, renowned as one of the island’s best underwater sites. Snorkeling here is a highlight, with vibrant fish and clear water—ideal for those who love watching marine life. The guides are praised for their educational approach, helping both beginners and experienced snorkelers get the most out of it.

Next, the boat heads to Tintamarre Island, a smaller, uninhabited isle with a reputation for turtle sightings. As one reviewer notes, “snorkeling with sea turtles was a real treat,” and the calm waters make it an excellent spot for relaxing swims. The crew takes care to ensure everyone feels comfortable, providing flotation gear along with snorkeling equipment.

Pinel Island follows, famous for its tranquil beaches and friendly iguanas. Travelers often enjoy this stop as a chance to unwind, take photos, or even venture into the shallow waters. Some reviews mention that the iguanas are harmless but pet-like—if you’re brave enough, you might even get close enough for a selfie.

Lunch arrives at Grand Case, a local restaurant known for its flavorful dishes. The meal is a highlight for many, with some reviewers calling it “better than expected.” The tour operators ask for dietary preferences in advance, offering vegetarian options, which is a thoughtful touch.

In the latter part of the day, the boat visits Baie Longue for a quick swim and then stops at Maho Beach—famous worldwide for planes flying low overhead as they land at Princess Juliana Airport. Watching jets come in just feet above your head is an experience that many find memorable.

Throughout the trip, the crew maintains a lively atmosphere, with music, drinks, and friendly banter, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a formal tour.

The Highlights: What Makes It Stand Out

From the reviews, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. They’re not only attentive but also eager to share local insights, which enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing. As one traveler puts it, “Sammy was an amazing tour guide, very well-versed and fun.”

The snorkeling stops are regarded as some of the best on the island, with marine life, sea turtles, and stingrays often mentioned. The secluded beaches like Tintamarre and Pinel provide quiet escapes away from crowded tourist areas—a real bonus for anyone looking to relax.

The lunch experience seems to exceed expectations, with many describing it as delicious and a nice change from typical tourist fare. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages and the open bar keeps the mood upbeat, and it’s a good value considering the entire six-hour duration.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $139 per person, which covers a lot of ground—seven stops, snorkeling gear, drinks, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide. For cruise travelers, this is a sensible investment when compared to the cost and hassle of arranging private transportation or multiple excursions independently.

The tour operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized environment. The group size often gets positive reviews for being just the right size to form a friendly group without feeling crowded.

Timing is also a key factor—starting at 10 a.m. allows enough flexibility to enjoy the day without rushing back to the ship. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making pickup logistics straightforward for cruise guests. Plus, the provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for those with uncertain schedules.

What About Weather and Seasickness?

While the ocean can be choppy at times—as some reviews mention—the crew is praised for their ability to find calmer waters and tweak the itinerary accordingly. If seasickness is a concern, it might be wise to take precautions, but most reviewers felt the experience was comfortable even in rougher seas.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is best suited for cruise guests who want a fun, relaxed day with a mix of snorkeling, beaches, and local cuisine. It’s perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends who appreciate friendly guides and authentic island scenery. However, travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to seasickness should prepare accordingly.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a day of adventure, good food, beautiful scenery, and friendly company, Billy Bones’ St. Maarten Getaway delivers. It offers a well-balanced mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and local flavor, all delivered with a high level of service and attention to detail. The inclusive drinks, snacks, and lunch make it an excellent value, especially for cruise travelers eager to see the best of St. Maarten without overextending their time ashore.

This tour shines in its personalized approach, with guides praised for their friendliness and local knowledge. While weather can impact the day—something to keep in mind if the forecast isn’t perfect—the crew’s flexibility and focus on safety help ensure a positive experience.

In short, if you’re craving a laid-back yet engaging day on the water, with opportunities to snorkel, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy authentic island food, this tour is a top choice. It’s designed for those who want to see the real St. Maarten without feeling hurried or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, and the tour starts from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg. Cruise ship guests need to provide their ship’s name and docking details when booking.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately six hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning to the meeting point around 4 p.m. This allows ample time for multiple stops and activities.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a local guide, open bar, snorkeling gear with flotation devices, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and a hot lunch.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a $10 marine park/port fee per person, payable on-site. Private transportation isn’t included but can be arranged separately.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. The crew is known for adjusting plans to ensure safety.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness levels, and check with the operator about specific age restrictions or special needs.

In all, this boat tour from Billy Bones offers a lively, authentic taste of St. Maarten. It combines stunning scenery, marine life, and local flavors with a friendly crew and excellent value. Perfect for cruise guests eager to squeeze the best out of their time in port—just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a little sun protection!