St Maarten Island Tour with Maho Beach and Marigot

5.0 (1 reviews)5 h–6 hSt. MaartenSightseeingFits a typical call
Fits your day

Back at the ship by about 2:36 pm, 1 h 54 min before all aboard. That keeps your 1 h safety margin with 54 min to spare.

Safety margin
Ship in portGetting ashore (20 min)Safety margin (1 h)All aboard 4:30 pm
  1. 8:00 am
    Ship docks in St. Maarten20 min to get off the ship and through the terminal
  2. 8:20 am
    Leave the pierThis tour meets at the pier
  3. 8:28 am
    Earliest tour startTour runs 5 h–6 h; we plan for 6 h. Latest sensible start: 9:22 am.
  4. 2:28 pm
    Tour ends8 min back to the pier
  5. 2:36 pm
    Back at the gangway1 h 54 min before all aboard
  6. 4:30 pm
    All aboardGangway closes; the ship won't wait for independent tours

Estimates based on the tour's longest published duration, our researched travel times and typical pier queues. Confirm the departure time on the booking page and keep your watch on ship's time.

Our verdict

This tour fits a typical St. Maarten call (8:00 am–4:30 pm). It runs up to 6 h; ashore by 8:20 am, you can start by 8:28 am and be back at the gangway around 2:36 pm — 54 min to spare on top of a 1 h safety margin.

Rule of thumb: it keeps the safety margin as long as all aboard is 3:36 pm or later. On a short call (ship leaving by 2:00 pm) skip it or ask for the first departure.

The meeting point is at the cruise pier or a short walk from it — the operator's own directions are written from Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility (Port St. Maarten), Harbour Point Village. We allow 8 min to walk off and find them; usually no taxi and no transfer eating into your day.

Among the 400 St. Maarten shore excursions we track, this is one of the longer ones (the median runs 4 h); 77% of them fit a typical call.

Computed from the tour's published duration, the distance from the cruise pier to its start point and the typical St. Maarten call. Adjust your ship's times above to recheck.

About this tour

Want to see the best of St. Maarten in one exciting day?

Perfect for first-time visitors, this highlights tour takes you to the island’s top attractions, including Cole Bay, Topper’s Rhum Distillery, Maho Beach, monuments, museums, and beaches. Learn about the island’s culture and history from your friendly guide while enjoying air-conditioned transportation between stops, so no sore feet or stress.

Shop for souvenirs and duty-free treats, relax with a cooler of complimentary drinks including water, soda, beer, and rum punch, and soak in the island vibes. Ideal for cruise passengers or hotel guests, this tour combines adventure, culture, shopping, and relaxation into one seamless, unforgettable experience.

Max 15 per group English, Italian, French, Spanish

What's included

  • Bottled water

Not included

  • Meals

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Cole Bay
    Capture breathtaking panoramic views from the top of Cole Bay Hill at the Dutch side’s #1 photo spot. Snap selfies and group photos with the stunning Simpson Bay Lagoon as your backdrop, along with the surrounding islands. This viewpoint is perfect for unforgettable memories and Instagram-worthy shots.
    5 min
  2. 2
    Topper's Rhum Distillery
    Enjoy a sample of local rhum, learn the fascinating history behind its production, and treat yourself to ice cream. A perfect stop to taste St Maarten’s flavors while soaking in its stories.
    15 min
  3. 3
    Maho Beach
    Experience the thrill of the world-famous Maho Beach, featured on news channels and travel media. Watch planes land and take off just above your head while enjoying a complimentary rum punch or your favorite drink from your cooler. Stroll through Maho Village, snap more unforgettable photos, and soak in the energy of one of the most talked about spots on the island perfect for creating memories you’ll share long after your trip.
    45 min
  4. 4
    Marigot
    Welcome to Marigot, the charming capital on the French side of the island! Explore duty-free luxury shops, pick up souvenirs, Cuban cigars, and local treats, or indulge in fresh organic coconuts and exquisite French pastries that will delight your taste buds. After shopping, stretch your legs with a hike up the 100 steps to the island’s largest fort, then discover local history at the French Museum. A perfect stop to blend shopping, culture, and scenic views all in one.
    30 min
  5. 5
    Orient Bay Beach
    Feel the soft, powdery white sand beneath your feet at Orient Beach, one of St. Maarten’s most popular beaches. We’ll take you to the clothing-friendly section, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying the vibrant beach bars and fine restaurants with chairs and umbrellas. Adventure seekers can try jet skiing, parasailing, flyboarding, snorkeling, and other exciting water sports. Facilities like restrooms, changing areas, and fresh-water showers are available at most beach bars, ensuring a comfortable and fun-filled beach experience for everyone.
    1 h 15 min
  6. 6
    Orient Bay
    Get your cameras ready at Paradise View, a stunning lookout point atop the hill. Marvel at the majestic Atlantic Ocean as its waves meet the shores of Orient Beach. Capture incredible photos with St. Barths in the background and soak in this unforgettable moment a perfect memory to treasure from your St. Maarten adventure.
    Pass by without stopping
  7. 7
    Border Monument (Saint Martin - Sint Maarten)
    Let’s say “Goedenmiddag” (Good Day in Dutch) as we cross back into the Dutch side! Enjoy a slow drive across the border for photos of the flags and the border monument, while your guide shares the history behind the treaty that shaped this unique island. Next, we head toward downtown Philipsburg, a paradise for shoppers. Explore Front Street and Back Street, two streets packed with fine jewelry, souvenirs, and local treasures at unbeatable prices. Visit the Dutch side museum or relax at the nearby beach. Don’t miss the Guavaberry Emporium, where you can sample flavors and see how the national rum is made.
    Pass by without stopping
  8. 8
    Amsterdam Cheese and Liquor Store
    Savor a free sample of local cheese and explore a variety of local and international alcohol, gifts, and souvenirs. A perfect stop to taste St. Maarten’s flavors and pick up unique mementos to remember your island adventure.
    15 min

Meeting point and getting there

Start point
Once you exit the cruise terminal, walk straight to the main gate and step outside. Your IslandGo guide will be waiting just outside the port entrance, holding a sign with your name. We can't wait to welcome you!"
Once you exit the cruise terminal, walk straight to the main gate and step outside. Your IslandGo guide will be waiting just outside the port entrance, holding a sign with your name. We can't wait to welcome you!"
From the cruise pier
Meets at the pier
Allow 20 min to get off the ship first. Taxi fares and pier details.
Returns
Back to the start point

Good to know

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. If the operator cancels for bad weather, you can rebook or get a full refund.
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveler reviews

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Operated by islandgo. Prices, availability and tour details come from the booking partner and can change; the booking page is authoritative.

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