St. Maarten Cruise Port Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Port Type	Dock
Walk to Town	5-10 minutes (0.25-0.5 miles)
Typical Hours in Port	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Varies by itinerary)
Currency	Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but USD is widely accepted. Change is often given in ANG.
Language	Dutch (official), English is widely spoken
Taxi Availability	Excellent. Taxis are readily available at the port. To Philipsburg: ~$8-10. To Maho Beach: ~$25-30. To Orient Bay: ~$20-25. These are approximate rates and should be confirmed with the driver beforehand.
Passport Required?	Yes. While US citizens can sometimes enter with just a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID on closed-loop cruises (starting and ending in the same US port), carrying a passport is always recommended and often required by cruise lines.
Cell Service	AT&T and T-Mobile generally work with international roaming enabled. Check with your carrier for daily/monthly roaming plans to avoid high costs.
Wi-Fi	Free Wi-Fi is available at many restaurants and bars in Philipsburg. The cruise terminal may offer paid Wi-Fi.

Why Visit St. Maarten

St. Maarten, or St. Martin (the French side), is a unique Caribbean island offering a captivating blend of European sophistication and laid-back island charm. Divided between the Netherlands and France, this dual-nation island offers two distinct cultures within a single, easily explorable destination. The Dutch side, St. Maarten, is known for its bustling capital of Philipsburg, duty-free shopping, casinos, and vibrant nightlife. The French side, St. Martin, boasts sophisticated dining, nude beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

St. Maarten's defining identity is its seamless blend of cultures and experiences. Visitors can spend the morning exploring duty-free shops, the afternoon relaxing on a pristine beach, and the evening enjoying gourmet French cuisine or lively Caribbean music. Expect a vibrant, multi-cultural atmosphere where English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

A surprising fact for first-timers is that you can literally walk from one country to another without even realizing it, as there are no border controls. Another surprise is the sheer variety of beaches, each with its own unique character, from the famous Maho Beach where planes fly directly overhead to secluded coves perfect for relaxation.

Where Ships Dock & Getting Around

Cruise ships typically dock at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility in Philipsburg. This is a large, modern facility designed to accommodate multiple large cruise ships simultaneously.

The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility is conveniently located within a 5-10 minute walk (0.25-0.5 miles) of the main tourist area of Philipsburg, including Front Street (shopping) and the Great Bay Beach. Simply exit the terminal, and follow the marked pathways.

Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal. Expect to pay around $8-10 for a taxi to Philipsburg's center, $25-30 to Maho Beach, and $20-25 to Orient Bay. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Shuttle services may also be offered by the cruise line or independent operators. These are usually slightly cheaper than taxis, but may involve waiting for the shuttle to fill up.

Uber and Lyft are *not* reliably available in St. Maarten. While you might see them on the app, availability is limited, and it’s generally not a practical way to get around.

Rental cars are available near the cruise port and at the airport (Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM). Expect to pay around $40-60 per day for a small car. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak season. Scooters are also available for rent, but are not recommended for inexperienced riders due to traffic conditions. Golf carts are generally *not* permitted for use on public roads in St. Maarten.

Many major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian, regularly dock at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility. Schedules can change, so confirm your specific itinerary. This is *not* a tender port.

Best Beaches

• Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg): Located right in Philipsburg, a 5-minute walk from the cruise port. Taxi is not needed. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$20-25 per day. Snorkeling quality: None. Crowd level: Busy. Food/drink availability: Plenty of restaurants and bars lining the beach. This is a great option if you want to stay close to the port and enjoy the shops and restaurants.

• Maho Beach: Approximately 25-30 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. Taxi cost: ~$25-30. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$20-25 per day. Snorkeling quality: None. Crowd level: Very busy due to the plane landings. Food/drink availability: Several bars and restaurants. Famous for watching planes land directly overhead. This is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts.

• Orient Bay Beach: Approximately 20-25 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. Taxi cost: ~$20-25. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$20-30 per day. Snorkeling quality: Good, especially at the southern end. Crowd level: Moderate to busy. Food/drink availability: Numerous beach bars and restaurants. Known for its clothing-optional section.

• Mullet Bay Beach: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. Taxi cost: ~$20-25. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$15-20 per day. Snorkeling quality: Good, especially on calmer days. Crowd level: Moderate. Food/drink availability: Limited options, some beach vendors. A beautiful beach with calm waters and good snorkeling when the sea is tranquil.

• Grand Case Beach: Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. Taxi cost: ~$30-35. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$20-25 per day. Snorkeling quality: Moderate. Crowd level: Moderate. Food/drink availability: Many gourmet restaurants along the beach. Known as the "Culinary Capital" of the Caribbean.

• Friar's Bay Beach: Approximately 25 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. Taxi cost: ~$25-30. Beach chair/umbrella rental: ~$15-20 per day. Snorkeling quality: Good for beginners. Crowd level: Moderate, popular with families. Food/drink availability: Two beach bars/restaurants. A calm and sheltered beach perfect for families with young children.

• Happy Bay Beach: Requires a short hike (10-15 minutes) from a parking area accessible by taxi (approx. 25 minutes from port, ~$25-30). Beach chair/umbrella rental: Limited availability, may be best to bring your own. Snorkeling quality: Good. Crowd level: Secluded. Food/drink availability: Very limited, bring your own. A secluded and beautiful beach, worth the short hike.

All beaches are free to access, but you will need to pay for beach chair and umbrella rentals.

Top Free & Budget Activities

• Walk along Front Street (Philipsburg): Stroll along the main shopping street, window shop, and soak in the atmosphere. Distance from port: 5-minute walk. Time needed: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (unless you buy something!).

• Relax on Great Bay Beach (Philipsburg): Enjoy the sun and sand on the beach right in Philipsburg. Distance from port: 5-minute walk. Time needed: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free (chair/umbrella rental extra).

• Visit the Philipsburg Courthouse: Admire the historic architecture of the courthouse. Distance from port: 10-minute walk. Time needed: 30 minutes. Cost: Free.

• Explore the Marigot Market (French Side): Take a local bus or taxi to Marigot (approx. 30 minutes) and browse the local market for souvenirs and local produce. Distance from port: 30-minute taxi ride. Time needed: 2-3 hours. Cost: Bus fare ~$2-3 each way, taxi ~$30-35 each way.

• Hike to Fort Amsterdam: Hike up to Fort Amsterdam for panoramic views of Philipsburg and Great Bay. Distance from port: 20-minute walk. Time needed: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free.

• Watch the planes at Maho Beach: Take a taxi to Maho Beach (approx. 25 minutes) and experience the thrill of planes landing directly overhead. Distance from port: 25-minute taxi ride. Time needed: 1-2 hours. Cost: Taxi fare ~$25-30 each way.

• Explore the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit: A small, quirky museum showcasing movie props and memorabilia. Distance from port: 10-minute walk. Time needed: 1 hour. Cost: ~$10 entrance fee.

Best Shore Excursions

Budget Excursions (Under $75/person)

• Island Bus Tour: Price: ~$40-60. Duration: 4-5 hours. Includes: Guided tour of the island, stops at key viewpoints and beaches. Insider tip: Some tours include a complimentary rum punch. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Maho Beach Transfer: Price: ~$20-30 (round trip). Duration: Varies. Includes: Round-trip transportation to Maho Beach. Insider tip: Check for deals that include a drink at the Sunset Bar & Grill.
• Snorkel Gear Rental & Beach Day: Price: ~$25-40. Duration: Varies. Includes: Snorkel gear rental and transportation to a suitable snorkeling beach like Mullet Bay or Friar's Bay. Insider Tip: Check rental prices at multiple locations for best deal.

Mid-Range Excursions ($75-$200/person)

• Catamaran Sail & Snorkel: Price: ~$90-150. Duration: 4-6 hours. Includes: Sailing along the coast, snorkeling at a reef, open bar, lunch. Insider tip: Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a towel.
• Half-Day Jeep Safari: Price: ~$80-120. Duration: 4-5 hours. Includes: Guided jeep tour of the island, off-road driving, stops at viewpoints. Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
• Tintamarre Island Snorkel & Beach: Price: ~$100-180. Duration: 5-6 hours. Includes: Boat trip to Tintamarre Island, snorkeling, beach time, lunch, drinks. Insider tip: Tintamarre is a nature reserve, so be respectful of the environment.

Splurge Excursions ($200+/person)

• Private Boat Charter: Price: ~$500+. Duration: Varies. Includes: Private boat with captain and crew, customized itinerary, snorkeling, swimming, drinks, snacks. Insider tip: Perfect for groups or families who want a personalized experience.
• Helicopter Tour of St. Maarten: Price: ~$250-350. Duration: 30-45 minutes. Includes: Aerial views of the island, beaches, and landmarks. Insider tip: Book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Day Trip to St. Barth: Price: ~$250-400. Duration: Full day. Includes: Ferry or flight to St. Barth, transportation, guided tour, lunch. Insider tip: St. Barth is a high-end destination, so expect higher prices.

Booking independently can often save you money compared to booking through the cruise line. However, booking through the cruise line provides a guarantee that the ship will wait for you if the excursion is delayed. Weigh the cost savings against the risk.

Book your excursions as early as possible, especially for popular activities during peak season. Some excursions may sell out weeks or even months in advance.

Snorkeling & Diving

St. Maarten offers several excellent snorkeling spots accessible from the cruise port, though diving is more commonly done by boat tours.

Top snorkeling spots include:

• Tintamarre Island: Known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Accessible by boat tour.
• Creole Rock: Located off the coast of Grand Case. Accessible by boat tour.
• Friar's Bay: A calm and sheltered bay perfect for beginners. Accessible by taxi or local bus.
• Mullet Bay: Good snorkeling on calmer days. Accessible by taxi or local bus.

Visibility is typically best during the dry season (December to May), with average visibility ranging from 50 to 80 feet. The rainy season (June to November) can sometimes reduce visibility.

Recommended operators include:

• Red Sail Sports: Offers a variety of snorkeling and diving tours. Prices range from $75-$150 per person.
• Aqua Mania Adventures: Specializes in catamaran sailing and snorkeling trips. Prices range from $80-$160 per person.

It is *essential* to use reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling or swimming in St. Maarten. Regular sunscreen contains chemicals that can damage or kill coral reefs. Look for sunscreen that is labeled "reef-safe" or "reef-friendly" and does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Expect to see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, coral formations, and possibly even dolphins or rays. Coral health varies depending on the location, but efforts are being made to protect and restore the reefs.

Shore snorkeling is possible at beaches like Friar's Bay and Mullet Bay. Boat snorkeling tours offer access to more remote and pristine snorkeling spots.

Where to Eat & Drink

• The Greenhouse Restaurant (Philipsburg): What to order: The ribs. Price range: $$. Distance from cruise port: 5-minute walk. A popular spot with a lively atmosphere and delicious American and Caribbean cuisine.
• Taloula Mango's (Philipsburg): What to order: Conch Fritters. Price range: $$. Distance from cruise port: 2-minute walk. Beachfront bar and restaurant with great views and live music.
• Skip Jack's (Simpson Bay): What to order: Fresh grilled seafood. Price range: $$$. Distance from cruise port: ~15-minute taxi ride ($15-$20). A waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.
• Karakter Beach Lounge (Simpson Bay): What to order: Dutch Snacks. Price range: $$. Distance from cruise port: ~15-minute taxi ride ($15-$20). A beachfront bar and restaurant with a relaxed vibe and great sunset views.
• Wajang Indonesian Restaurant (Philipsburg): What to order: Nasi Goreng. Price range: $$. Distance from cruise port: 10-minute walk. Offers authentic Indonesian cuisine in a cozy setting.
• Antoine Restaurant (Philipsburg): What to order: French Onion Soup. Price range: $$$. Distance from cruise port: 5-minute walk. French cuisine.
• Pineapple Pete Restaurant (Simpson Bay): What to order: Lobster Thermidor. Price range: $$. Distance from cruise port: ~15-minute taxi ride ($15-$20). This restaurant has a casual setting with amazing seafood dishes.

Local food specialties include conch fritters, Johnny cakes (fried cornbread), and guava cheese. Local drinks include Guavaberry liqueur and rum punch.

Wait times can be long during peak cruise ship hours, especially at popular restaurants in Philipsburg. Consider making a reservation or arriving early to avoid the crowds.

Shopping Guide

The main shopping areas in St. Maarten are Front Street and Back Street in Philipsburg. Front Street is known for its duty-free shops selling jewelry, watches, electronics, and liquor, while Back Street offers a more local shopping experience with smaller shops and boutiques.

Items worth buying include:

• Jewelry: St. Maarten is known for its duty-free jewelry, but compare prices carefully to ensure you're getting a good deal.
• Liquor: Duty-free liquor is available, but check your home country's import limits before purchasing.
• Cruise T-shirts: Many travelers pick up cruise t-shirts or funny cruise shirts as fun souvenirs or group cruise wear.
• Guavaberry Liqueur: A local specialty liqueur made from guavaberries.
• Dutch Cheeses: Dutch cheeses are available, but be mindful of customs regulations when bringing food items home.

Duty-free shopping can be a good deal, but it's important to compare prices with what you would pay at home to make sure you're actually saving money. Be wary of heavily advertised "deals" that may not be as good as they seem.

Local crafts and souvenirs worth bringing home include handmade jewelry, paintings, and wood carvings. Look for items made by local artisans to support the local economy.

Haggling is not generally expected in St. Maarten, especially in the larger stores. However, you may be able to negotiate prices in smaller shops or at the Marigot Market.

US citizens can bring back up to $800 worth of goods duty-free, as long as they are for personal use and you have been outside the US for at least 48 hours. Be sure to declare any purchases over this amount.

Weather by Month

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)	Rainfall (inches)	Rain Days
January	82	72	2.0	12
February	82	72	1.6	9
March	83	73	1.7	9
April	84	74	2.2	11
May	86	76	3.1	13
June	88	78	2.4	11
July	88	78	3.1	14
August	88	78	3.5	15
September	88	78	4.5	16
October	87	77	5.7	18
November	85	75	5.2	17
December	83	73	3.1	14

St. Maarten enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round. The average high temperature is around 85°F (29°C), and the average low temperature is around 75°F (24°C). Rainfall is generally higher during the months of September to November.

Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November. While St. Maarten is not always directly impacted by hurricanes, it's important to be aware of the potential risk and monitor weather forecasts before and during your cruise.

The best months to visit St. Maarten are generally December to May, when the weather is dry and sunny. A cruise tank top and lightweight cruise t-shirt are essentials for port days, and a long sleeve cruise shirt provides sun protection during excursions.

History & Culture

St. Maarten's history is a rich blend of indigenous, European, and African influences. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak people, who called it "Soualiga," meaning "Land of Salt." Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain in 1493 and named it St. Martin.

The Dutch and French began colonizing the island in the 17th century, and in 1648, they signed the Treaty of Concordia, dividing the island between the two nations. The Dutch side became known as Sint Maarten, and the French side as Saint-Martin.

The island has changed hands several times over the centuries, with periods of British and Spanish rule. Slavery was practiced on the island until the mid-19th century, and the descendants of enslaved Africans have made significant contributions to the island's culture.

Today, St. Maarten/St. Martin is a vibrant multicultural destination with a unique blend of European sophistication and Caribbean charm. Cultural influences include Dutch, French, African, and indigenous traditions.

Cultural sites to visit include Fort Amsterdam, a historic fort built by the Dutch in the 17th century, and the Marigot Market, a local market where you can experience the island's culture and cuisine.

Local customs and etiquette include greeting people with a smile and a friendly "good morning," "good afternoon," or "good evening." Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.

Safety & Practical Information

Safety: St. Maarten is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. Be wary of scams, such as people offering unsolicited services or trying to sell you fake goods. The areas around Front Street and Back Street in Philipsburg are generally safe during the day, but it's best to avoid them at night. Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at many restaurants and bars in Philipsburg, particularly along Front Street. The cruise terminal may offer paid Wi-Fi. Cell Service: AT&T and T-Mobile generally have coverage in St. Maarten with international roaming enabled. Check with your carrier for roaming costs and consider purchasing a daily or monthly international plan. ATMs: ATMs are widely available in Philipsburg and other tourist areas. They dispense both Netherlands Antillean Guilders (ANG) and US dollars. Restrooms: Public restrooms are available near the cruise port and in shopping areas. Restaurants and bars also have restrooms for customers. Tipping: Tipping is customary in St. Maarten. A tip of 15-20% is generally expected in restaurants and bars. Taxi drivers are also typically tipped 10-15%. Emergency: The local emergency number is 911. The nearest hospital is the St. Maarten Medical Center in Cay Hill. Drinking Water: Tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but many people prefer to drink bottled water. Bottled water is readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores.

Sample Itineraries

Beach Day Itinerary (6 Hours)

• Hour 1: Arrive in port, walk to Great Bay Beach (5 minutes).
• Hour 2-4: Relax on Great Bay Beach, swim in the ocean, rent a beach chair and umbrella.
• Hour 4-5: Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant like Taloula Mango's.
• Hour 5-6: Browse the shops on Front Street, purchase souvenirs, return to the ship.

Adventure Day Itinerary (8 Hours)

• Hour 1: Arrive in port, take a taxi to Maho Beach (25 minutes).
• Hour 2-3: Watch the planes land at Maho Beach, take photos, have a drink at the Sunset Bar & Grill.
• Hour 3-4: Take a taxi to Mullet Bay Beach (5 minutes) for snorkeling.
• Hour 4-5: Enjoy snorkeling and swimming at Mullet Bay.
• Hour 5-6: Take a taxi to Fort Amsterdam (20 minutes).
• Hour 6-7: Explore Fort Amsterdam and enjoy the panoramic views.
• Hour 7-8: Take a taxi back to the cruise port (20 minutes), allowing time for shopping or a quick drink near the port.

Budget-Friendly Itinerary

• Hour 1: Arrive in port, walk to Philipsburg (5 minutes).
• Hour 2-3: Stroll along Front Street, window shop, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Hour 3-4: Relax on Great Bay Beach (free), enjoy the sun and sand.
• Hour 4-5: Hike to Fort Amsterdam (20-minute walk) for panoramic views (free). Wear a comfortable cruise t-shirt and apply reef-safe sunscreen.
• Hour 5-6: Explore the Philipsburg Courthouse and nearby historical sites (free).

Insider Tips

• Go ashore early: Beat the crowds by going ashore as soon as the ship docks. The shops and beaches will be less crowded in the morning.
• Visit the French side: Take a taxi or bus to the French side of the island for a different cultural experience. Marigot, the capital of St. Martin, is worth a visit.
• Try the local food: Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like conch fritters and Johnny cakes.
• Negotiate taxi fares: Always confirm the taxi fare with the driver before starting your journey.
• Bring cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.
• Best photo spot: The best photo spot is at Maho Beach, where you can capture the planes landing directly overhead.
• Hidden Gem: Happy Bay Beach requires a short hike, but is a secluded beach that is worth the effort.
• Money Saving Hack: Take the local bus instead of a taxi to get around the island. It's much cheaper and a great way to experience the local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is St. Maarten walkable from the cruise ship?

Yes, Philipsburg, the main town, is very walkable from the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility. It's only a 5-10 minute stroll to Front Street (shopping) and Great Bay Beach. You can easily explore the town center on foot.

Where do cruise ships dock in St. Maarten?

Cruise ships dock at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility in Philipsburg. This is a large, modern facility designed to accommodate multiple large cruise ships simultaneously. It's conveniently located near the town center.

How much time do you need in St. Maarten?

Ideally, you need at least 6-8 hours to experience St. Maarten. This allows time to explore Philipsburg, relax on a beach, and perhaps take a short excursion to another part of the island. A full day (8+ hours) is even better.

What is there to do for free in St. Maarten?

Many activities in St. Maarten are free! You can walk along Front Street, relax on Great Bay Beach, hike to Fort Amsterdam for panoramic views, or explore the historic Philipsburg Courthouse. Enjoying the natural beauty of the island doesn't cost a thing.

What is the best beach in St. Maarten?

That depends on your preference! Maho Beach is famous for the planes, Orient Bay is known for its clothing-optional section, Mullet Bay offers calm waters and snorkeling, and Great Bay is convenient to the port. Each beach has its own unique vibe.

Is the water safe to drink in St. Maarten?

Tap water is generally considered safe, but most visitors prefer to drink bottled water. Bottled water is readily available in supermarkets and convenience stores. If you have a sensitive stomach, stick to bottled water.

Do I need a passport for St. Maarten?

While a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID *may* be sufficient for US citizens on closed-loop cruises, it's strongly recommended to bring your passport. Cruise lines often require it, and it simplifies entry requirements. Don't risk being turned away!

What currency does St. Maarten use?

The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. You'll often receive change in ANG, so be prepared for that. Credit cards are also commonly used.

Is St. Maarten safe for cruise passengers?

St. Maarten is generally safe for cruise passengers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be wary of scams. Common sense is key.

What should I wear in St. Maarten?

Lightweight, breathable clothing is best due to the warm, tropical climate. Pack swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, and a hat. Sunscreen is essential! A light sweater or jacket may be useful for evenings or air-conditioned spaces.

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Gear Up for Your Caribbean Cruise

Browse our collection of Caribbean cruise shirts, tank tops, and hoodies — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port.