St.Martin-St.Maarten: Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating island of St. Martin-St. Maarten with a small group history and cheese tasting tour. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage as you explore historic forts and uncover the island’s past. But the real treat lies in the opportunity to savor exquisite Dutch and French cheeses expertly paired with refreshing local wines. With a maximum of six participants, this tour promises a personalized and engaging experience that will leave you craving more.

Key Points

• A small group tour (maximum 6 participants) exploring the historical forts and offering Dutch and French cheese and wine tastings on the island of St. Martin-St. Maarten.
• Itinerary includes visits to Fort Amsterdam on the Dutch side and Fort Louis on the French side, with insights into the island’s colonial past.
• Tour provides a variety of refreshments, including bottled water, coffee, tea, and homemade snacks like banana bread.
• Meeting point at Dock Maarten in Philipsburg, with free pickup options and additional fees for other locations.
• Tour is praised for its exceptional experience, knowledgeable guide, and well-rounded blend of historical, cultural, and culinary elements.

Tour Overview

The St. Martin-St. Maarten: Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the dual-island nation. Rated 5.0 from 1 review, this 6-person tour starts at 9:00 am and costs €153.96 per person.

Visitors will visit historic Fort Amsterdam on the Dutch side and Fort Louis on the French side, along with indulging in Dutch and French cheese and wine tastings. Refreshments like bottled water, coffee, tea, and homemade snacks are included.

The tour departs from Dock Maarten in Philipsburg, with free pickup available for guests in Oyster Pond or Philipsburg. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the experience.

Itinerary and Activities

This tour offers visitors an immersive experience, exploring the historical sites and indulging in the culinary delights of St. Martin-St. Maarten. The itinerary includes visits to Fort Amsterdam on the Dutch side and Fort Louis on the French side, providing insights into the island’s rich history. Guests can look forward to Dutch and French cheese and wine tastings, complemented by refreshments such as bottled water, coffee, tea, homemade iced-lemongrass tea, and scrumptious snacks like banana bread.

Activity	Location
Visit Fort Amsterdam	Dutch Side
Visit Fort Louis	French Side
Dutch Cheese & Wine Tasting	–
French Cheese & Wine Tasting	–
Refreshments	–

Meeting and Pickup Information

Guests meet for the tour at Dock Maarten, located on Philipsburg’s Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard.

Free pickup is available for those staying in Oyster Pond or Philipsburg, while an additional fee applies for other locations.

Cruise ship guests can follow the walking directions to the meeting point.

Parking is available, costing $2 for the first hour and $1 for each additional hour.

• Free pickup for guests in Oyster Pond or Philipsburg
• Additional fee for other locations, check for participation
• Walking directions available for cruise ship guests
• Parking: First hour at USD $2.00, each additional hour USD $1.00

Visitor Highlights

According to a 5-star review from November 2024, the St. Martin-St. Maarten: Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour provides an exceptional experience.

The reviewer, David_L, praised the tour’s historical site visits, highlighting the engaging commentary from the friendly and knowledgeable driver, John.

The wine and cheese tastings were also a standout, with the reviewer noting the excellent selection and quality.

Beyond the activities, the reviewer formed lasting connections with fellow travelers, emphasizing the tour’s ability to foster a sense of camaraderie.

The reviewer’s overall positive experience underscores the tour’s ability to offer a well-rounded and memorable exploration of the island’s rich history, culinary delights, and social connections.

Historical Site Visits

On the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore two historic forts that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich colonial past.

At Fort Amsterdam on the Dutch side, they can marvel at the well-preserved ramparts and cannons that once protected the island’s settlers.

Across the border, the imposing Fort Louis on the French side showcases the island’s diverse heritage, with its distinctive architecture and strategic position overlooking the sea.

Through these visits, guests gain a deeper understanding of the island’s history and the enduring influence of its European colonizers.

The tour provides a captivating blend of historical exploration and culture.

Wine and Cheese Tastings

Alongside the historical site visits, the tour features two distinct wine and cheese tasting experiences, one on the Dutch side and the other on the French side.

The Dutch Cheese & Wine Tasting provides a chance to sample locally-produced cheeses paired with regional wines. Guests can expect a delightful sensory exploration, savoring the flavors and learning about the unique characteristics of the pairings.

The French Cheese & Wine Tasting offers a similar opportunity on the French side of the island, allowing travelers to discover the diverse culinary traditions of St. Martin-St. Maarten.

These tastings are complemented by refreshments like bottled water, coffee or tea, and homemade iced-lemongrass tea, as well as snacks and homemade banana bread.

Refreshments and Snacks

Complementing the historical site visits and wine and cheese tastings, the tour offers a selection of refreshments and snacks to fuel guests throughout their exploration.

Travelers can enjoy:

• Bottled water to stay hydrated
• Aromatic coffee or soothing tea
• Homemade iced-lemongrass tea, a local favorite
• Freshly baked banana bread, a delightful accompaniment

These thoughtful inclusions ensure guests can recharge and savor the full experience.

From quenching thirst to indulging in homemade treats, the refreshments and snacks enhance the overall tour, allowing participants to enjoy the flavors and culture of St. Martin-St. Maarten.

Additional Details

The tour offers a range of additional details to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests. Participants receive confirmation upon booking, and infant seats are available for families.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are welcome. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Parking is available at the meeting point in Philipsburg, with the first hour costing $2.00 and each additional hour $1.00.

With these thoughtful details, the tour provides a well-organized and hassle-free outing for visitors to explore the history and culinary delights of St. Martin-St. Maarten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour may be available in languages besides English, though the information provided doesn’t specify. It’s best to check with the tour operator, Seagrape Tours, to inquire about language options when booking the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This allows customers flexibility and the ability to receive a full refund if their plans change.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private or Special Groups?

The tour can be customized for private or special groups, allowing for a more personalized experience. Seagrape Tours offers flexibility to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of their customers.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

This tour offers dietary accommodations for guests with specific needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available for the cheese and wine tastings. The provider will work to ensure all participants enjoy the experience.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour is casual, so comfortable walking shoes and lightweight, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Guests should dress comfortably for exploring historical sites and participating in the wine and cheese tastings throughout the day.

The Sum Up

The St. Martin-St. Maarten Small Group History & Cheese Tasting Tour offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and culinary delight. Guests will uncover the island’s rich history while indulging in expertly curated Dutch and French cheese and wine pairings. With a focus on personalized attention, this engaging tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the vibrant heritage and flavors of this enchanting Caribbean destination.