Boomerang’s Best of St. Martin/Maarten: Swim with Turtles

Planning a day on the water in St. Maarten? The Boomerang Best of St. Martin/Maarten tour might just be what you’re looking for. This full-day cruise on a sleek power catamaran promises a mix of snorkeling, island exploration, and relaxation — all wrapped into a single, fun-packed adventure. With over 500 glowing reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this trip a highlight of their visit to the Caribbean.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it offers multiple snorkeling stops, including the chance to swim with sea turtles — a true highlight for marine life lovers. Second, the quality of food and drinks keeps guests refreshed and satisfied throughout the day. However, one thing to consider is that water conditions can sometimes affect snorkeling visibility, which is common for ocean adventures.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy water-based activities, appreciate good value for a full day of fun, and want to explore St. Maarten’s coast with knowledgeable crew members guiding the way. If you’re after a lively, inclusive trip that combines scenery, marine encounters, and local flavors, this cruise is a strong contender.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Includes lunch, snacks, open premium bar, and water gear, making it easy to relax without worrying about extra costs.
• Multiple Stops: Four different snorkeling and swimming locations, with the opportunity to see sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious two-story catamaran with easy on/off access, restrooms, and water toys like paddleboards and floatation devices.
• Expert Crew: Known for attentive, friendly staff that keep the energy high and safety top priority.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including cruise ship passengers, with amenities like floatation vests for kids and adults.
• Weather & Water Conditions: The trip is weather-dependent, and rough seas may limit snorkeling spots, but the crew does their best to adjust and ensure a fun day.

An Authentic Look at the Experience

The Boomerang tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am from the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, a straightforward meeting point in Simpson Bay. From the moment you step aboard this two-story, comfortable catamaran, you realize this isn’t just a “boat ride” — it’s a well-orchestrated adventure designed for fun and comfort. The boat’s 20-knot cruising speed ensures you spend less time in transit and more time in the water or relaxing on deck.

The Itinerary: A Day in the Water

The day is divided into four main stops, each carefully chosen for its marine beauty and snorkeling potential. The first stop is Creole Rock, a favorite for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Here, snorkelers might catch glimpses of spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, and even dolphins. One review calls this stop “absolutely amazing,” especially noting the chance to swim with turtles.

Next, you’ll explore Pinel Island, renowned for its iguana colony and calm shallows. This is a fantastic spot for paddleboarding — many reviewers highlight how fun and relaxing it is to float around in the shallow waters with the provided paddleboards and floatation devices. The calm, protected waters make it perfect for families or those new to water sports.

The third stop is Tintamarre Island, a remote piece of paradise where you can snorkel in pristine waters and look for sea turtles. The tour’s description mentions snorkeling with turtles here, and many reviews confirm sightings of these gentle creatures, sometimes along with stingrays. It’s a highlight for marine lovers and those eager to see wildlife up close.

The final stop is Mullet Bay, famed for its beautiful sandy beach and excellent swimming conditions. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, snack on tropical fruits, and soak up the last hours of sun. Many reviewers appreciate this laid-back end to a busy day, emphasizing the friendly crew and delicious lunch.

Food & Drinks: More Than Just a Snack

The BBQ lunch is a highlight, offering Jamaican jerk & curry chicken skewers, garlic shrimp, Greek pasta salad, baguette, and garlic bread. Reviewers frequently mention how generous and tasty the meals are, often saying it exceeded their expectations for a boat lunch. Tropical fruit platters, along with an open bar serving signature cocktails, beers, and soft drinks, keep everyone refreshed.

The water gear — snorkeling masks, paddleboards, floatation vests, and even a floating lily pad — make active participation easy. Reviewers have noted how well-organized and accessible these amenities are, ensuring everyone from confident swimmers to first-timers can enjoy the water.

Crew & Atmosphere

The crew earns high praise for their friendly and attentive attitude. Multiple reviews describe the staff as “super helpful,” “professional,” and “fun,” creating a lively but safe environment. One reviewer calls the crew “hustling nonstop to make the experience all it can be,” which is a good sign of their dedication.

While most reviews are glowing, some mention loud music — which some find adds to the festive vibe, though others might prefer softer tunes. The captain’s navigation skills also come through positively, especially when water conditions get a little choppy.

Group Size & Booking

The tour accommodates up to 28 travelers, striking a balance between social fun and personal space. Many guests mention they booked the trip multiple times or are repeat clients, which indicates consistent satisfaction and confidence in the experience.

Value & Price

At $169 per person, this trip offers a full day of activities, lunch, drinks, and water gear. The reviews consistently point out that the value is excellent, especially considering the variety of stops and inclusions. The tour’s all-inclusive model means less hassle and more relaxation — a true plus for travelers wanting a stress-free day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for marine life enthusiasts, families, and anyone wanting an active, social day on the water. If you love snorkeling, relaxing on a beach, or enjoying tropical drinks, this trip hits all those notes. It’s also suitable for cruise ship passengers, given the convenient meeting point and the flexible timing.

Those who prefer quiet, secluded experiences might find the lively atmosphere a bit much, but overall, the crew’s friendly vibe balances the party feel with genuine hospitality. If you’re a first-timer or even a seasoned snorkeler, you’ll appreciate the ease of access, provided gear, and the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a full day of fun with excellent food, open bar, and marine encounters, the Boomerang tour offers considerable value. The multiple snorkeling stops, friendly staff, and well-organized itinerary make it a standout choice for travelers eager to explore St. Maarten’s marine environment without fuss. The trip’s popularity, evidenced by high repeat booking and numerous five-star reviews, speaks to its reliable quality.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy water activities and social atmospheres. It also appeals to those wanting a taste of the local marine life, especially turtle sightings. If you’re after a lively, all-inclusive adventure that showcases the best of the island’s waters, this cruise is likely to deliver.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You get a delicious BBQ lunch, tropical fruit snacks, an open premium bar with signature cocktails, beers, soft drinks, and water, plus water gear like snorkels, paddleboards, floatation vests, and a lily pad mat.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise runs approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Simpson Bay.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Sint Maarten Yacht Club Bar & Restaurant, located at 90 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, with floatation vests available for both adults and kids, and stops that are calm enough for family fun. Most travelers can participate.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Not necessarily. Life jackets are provided, and snorkeling is optional — many enjoy just relaxing on deck or paddleboarding.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a $6 marine park fee per person. Towels are not included, so consider bringing your own.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
No, there’s no Wi-Fi on the boat, so be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the moment.

To sum it up, the Boomerang Best of St. Maarten tour is a well-rounded, lively adventure that offers excellent value for those seeking marine encounters, scenic views, and a fun social atmosphere. It’s ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting to make the most of a day on the Caribbean waters. Expect friendly crew, delicious food, and a day filled with swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing — all with the backdrop of one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands.