Sint Maarten: Catamaran Day Sail, Snorkel & Maho Plane Views

Summary

Catamaran sailing to Little Bay snorkeling and Maho’s wild plane landings

You’ll sail Sint Maarten’s coastline on a luxury catamaran with friendly guides, snorkeling at Little Bay around shipwrecks and bright fish, then drift past Maho Beach as jets roar overhead. Relax with fresh lunch and drinks before swimming or paddling at Mullet Bay—expect laughter, salt air, and moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The morning started at Bobby’s Marina, right by this wooden gazebo where I nearly tripped over my own flip-flops trying to spot our boat. The Phoenix looked even bigger up close — white decks, a bit of chatter from the crew, and that slightly salty breeze. Our guide, Anna, did a quick safety chat (she has this calm way about her), then we set off along the Sint Maarten coast. I found a spot on the trampoline up front — legs through the netting, sun already warming my knees. Someone handed me coffee and cake before I’d even figured out where to stash my bag. Not complaining.

First stop was Little Bay. The water here is so clear you can see your own feet dangling off the side. Anna led us out with snorkel gear — she pointed out a sunken helicopter that honestly looked like it belonged in a movie. There were these flashes of blue fish darting around the wreckage; I kept losing track because I was grinning into my mask (which makes you look ridiculous, by the way). The cove is quiet except for kids squealing when they spot something cool — I tried to act casual but got excited too when I saw what might’ve been a stingray or maybe just a shadow.

After that, we cruised slowly past Maho Beach. You know those videos of planes landing right over people’s heads? It’s exactly like that — only from the water it feels even closer somehow. Everyone stopped talking when we heard engines overhead; one big jet came in low enough that I swear you could see faces in the windows. Drinks appeared (I went for rum punch) and someone made a toast to “not getting blown away.” The crew laughed along with us — apparently this never gets old for them either.

We dropped anchor at Mullet Bay next. Some folks grabbed paddle boards or floated on this giant lily pad thing — felt like being six again. Lunch was grilled chicken with some local sides; nothing fancy but honestly tasted better than most things do after swimming all morning. Lying back on the sundeck after eating, there was this moment where everything just slowed down: sun on your face, distant music from another boat, salt on your skin. Kind of wish I’d taken more photos but also glad I didn’t bother.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury catamaran sail and beach stops

• Pick up at Bobby's Marina gazebo
• Safety briefing and cast off
• Sail along Sint Maarten shoreline
• Snorkel tour at Little Bay
• Sail by Maho Beach and watch planes
• Enjoy drinks at inside bar
• Sail to Mullet or Simpson Bay
• Swim, kayak, or paddle board
• Relax on sundeck and trampoline
• Enjoy food and drinks on deck
• Return to dock on time

Top questions

Where does the catamaran day sail in Sint Maarten depart from?

The tour departs from Bobby's Marina at the wooden gazebo in front of Aziana's restaurant.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Sint Maarten catamaran tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided along with a guided snorkel tour at Little Bay.

Can I watch planes land at Maho Beach during this day trip?

Yes, the catamaran sails by Maho Beach for plane spotting but does not stop there due to regulations.

What kind of food and drinks are served on board?

You’ll get breakfast snacks like fruit and cake plus freshly cooked lunch; drinks include cocktails, beer, soda.

Are there activities besides snorkeling?

Yes—stand-up paddle boards, an 18ft floating mat (“lily pad”), kayaks, swimming or just relaxing on deck are available.

Is pickup included for cruise ship guests?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet directly at Bobby's Marina but timing ensures cruise passengers return on time.

Are children or beginners able to snorkel safely?

Yes—Little Bay is sheltered and calm with guided support; suitable for kids and first-timers.

How long does the Sint Maarten catamaran day sail last?

The experience lasts about five hours including all stops and activities.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at Bobby’s Marina for boarding The Phoenix catamaran, breakfast snacks like fruit and cake plus freshly cooked lunch with drinks (cocktails, beer, soda), use of all water gear—snorkeling equipment with guided tour at Little Bay as well as stand-up paddle boards and an 18ft floating mat—plus plenty of time relaxing or swimming before returning to shore in time for cruise schedules.