Best Catamaran Excursions for Cruise Ship Passengers in Sint Maarten

Types of Catamaran Excursions for Cruise Ship Guests

When you’re browsing St Maarten catamaran excursions, you’ll see a few main options:

1. Shared Day Sails (4–5 Hours)

Perfect for most cruise passengers.

• Duration: Usually around 5 hours
• Group size: Small groups compared to big “party boats”
• What’s included: Open bar, freshly prepared lunch, snorkel gear, float mats, paddleboards
• Typical route: Depart near Philipsburg, snorkel at Little Bay, then beach and swim time at Mullet Bay or another calm bay

Sail The Phoenix offers a 5-Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail in Sint Maarten that’s designed to work with common cruise schedules and departs only a short distance from the St. Maarten cruise terminal.

2. Private Catamaran Charters

Best for families and groups who want the boat to themselves.

• Customizable timing (great if your ship has a slightly unusual schedule)
• Flexible route: Little Bay, Maho Beach fly-by, Mullet Bay, and more
• Ideal for birthdays, reunions, or groups of friends traveling together

If you’re searching for “private catamaran charter Sint Maarten from cruise port”, this is the style of trip you’re looking for.

Cruise-Friendly Example: 5-Hour Luxury Catamaran Day Sail (Great for Most Itineraries)

To give you a clear idea of what a cruise-ship-friendly Sint Maarten catamaran excursion looks like, here’s a sample itinerary similar to what you’ll experience aboard Sail The Phoenix:

Check-In Near the St Maarten Cruise Port

• Departure point: Bobby's Marina in Philipsburg, just a short taxi ride (or a 15-minute walk) from the St. Maarten cruise terminal
• Check-in: Typically 30 minutes before sailing
• Travel time from ship: Plan 5-10 minutes by taxi to be safe

Stop 1: Little Bay Snorkeling

• Short sail (about 30 minutes) from the dock
• Calm bay for first-time snorkelers and kids
• Underwater sights may include a sunken helicopter, reef fish, and coral formations
• Crew fits you with gear, gives a quick snorkel briefing, and guides you to the sightings

This is often what cruise guests are searching for when they type “Little Bay snorkeling excursion from cruise port Sint Maarten.”

Stop 2: Mullet Bay – Beach & Swim Time

• Sail further along the coast to Mullet Bay, known for its soft sand and clear water
• Time to swim, float on the lily pad, or try paddleboarding
• Plenty of photo opportunities with classic Caribbean turquoise water

Onboard Experience

Throughout the trip you’ll enjoy:

• Premium open bar (rum punch, beers, cocktails, soft drinks, water, juice)
• Freshly cooked lunch served onboard
• Lots of shaded seating and space to stretch out
• A relaxed, small-group atmosphere—far from the packed “mass excursion” vibe

Then it’s an easy sail back to the marina, with time to get back to your cruise ship well before all-aboard.

Timing Tips: How to Fit a Catamaran Excursion into Your Cruise Day

One of the biggest concerns cruise guests have is:

“Will I make it back to the ship on time?”

Here’s how to confidently book a St Maarten catamaran excursion from the cruise port without stressing about timing. When you’re planning a catamaran excursion around your cruise schedule, it’s helpful to think of your day in three parts: getting off the ship, enjoying your time on the water, and getting back with a comfortable buffer. Disembarkation can take a little longer on busy mornings, especially when several ships are in port, so don’t choose a tour that leaves the marina immediately after your scheduled arrival time. Instead, allow at least 60–90 minutes between your ship’s arrival and the catamaran departure, which gives you time to clear the terminal, grab a taxi to the marina in Philipsburg, and check in without stress.

Cruise Ship Passenger Checklist

As you compare St Maarten cruise excursions, use this quick checklist:

Distance from Cruise Port

• Does the catamaran depart from Philipsburg or nearby marinas?
• Is it a quick taxi ride from the St. Maarten cruise terminal?

Duration

• For most cruise schedules, 4–5 hours is the sweet spot.
• Longer 7–8 hour tours can be risky unless your ship is in port all day and into the evening.

Group Size

• Look for a small-group or mid-size catamaran (not 80+ guests).
• More space = more comfort, better service, and easier snorkeling.

Inclusions

• Open bar with alcoholic & non-alcoholic options
• Fresh, hot lunch or hearty buffet onboard
• Snorkeling gear, life jackets, and floatation aids
• Extras like paddleboards and a lily pad for added fun

Family-Friendly & Accessibility

• Are kids welcome?
• Is there shade for little ones and older guests?
• Are the bathrooms clean and easy to access?

Reviews & Reputation

• Check Tripadvisor, Google, and cruise forums for recent reviews.
• Look specifically for mentions from cruise ship passengers in Sint Maarten.

GUIDO POLKO

CAPTAIN & OWNER

Born in Germany, Guido started his sailing experience by windsurfing in his early twenties on several spots around the world. He has been sailing for decades in San Francisco, the Mediterranean, and Caribbean waters. In 2014 he crossed the Atlantic on his catamaran. Guido will ensure your safety on board but also make sure you have a fun and special experience while sailing with him and his crew. He holds several marine certificates including the required local commercial Captain’s license.