Snorkeling in St Maarten: Sail & Swim with Turtles

Hold the helm, then dive in the turquoise water

A four-hour sailboat snorkeling trip in St Maarten where you steer the boat with the captain's help, then jump in to swim with turtles and explore reefs. The boat runs on sail alone, no engine. Snorkeling equipment, snacks and drinks are included. Children from age 5 are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sail and explore Caribbean beaches

• Sail on eco-friendly sailboat
• Hold helm with captain's help
• Hoist sails with captain's assistance
• Discover Grand Case Bay scenery
• Visit Happy Bay Beach
• Visit Friar's Bay
• Snorkel at Creole rock
• Swim with turtles
• Enjoy snack and open bar
• Participate in pirate-themed treasure hunt
• Possibly meet dolphins

The experience

Four hours on the water starts with the chance to take the helm and help hoist the sails: the captain guides you through it. The boat moves under sail only, which means no engine noise and a different pace than a motorized tour. You'll pass the Bay of Grand Case, Happy Bay Beach and Friar's Bay, stopping once to snorkel at a reef the crew knows. The water is treated on board using the boat's own system, part of the eco-tourism setup.

Snorkeling happens at one main stop, and the gear is provided. Swimming with turtles is listed as part of the day, though sightings depend on the conditions and the season. You can also swim in the open water between stops. A pirate-themed treasure hunt and games run on board, and if dolphins show up, that's a bonus: the operator notes it as a possibility for the lucky ones.

The boat carries snacks and an open bar throughout, so you're not managing hunger or thirst between swims. A live English-speaking guide is on board. Morning and sunset departures are both offered, so you can pick the light and the time that fits your day.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• snacks.
• sodas, bottled water and an open bar.
• a live English-speaking guide.
• the chance to steer the boat and help raise the sails with the captain's help.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 13:30

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by The soul of pirates

Is this one for you?Book the morning departure if you want the best light for snorkeling and photos. Choose sunset if you prefer to sail into the golden hour and end the day on the water. The single snorkeling stop means this suits swimmers who want time in the water without constant stops: one good reef rather than a rapid tour of many.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 12 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I actually steer the sailboat, or is that just a photo moment?

You can hold the helm and help hoist the sails with the captain's assistance. He walks you through it, so it's a real hands-on moment, not a quick pose.

What's the snorkeling like in St Maarten on this trip?

One snorkeling stop happens at a reef near Friar's Bay, and the crew picks the spot based on conditions that day. Snorkeling equipment is included, and swimming with turtles is part of the itinerary, though sightings are not guaranteed.

What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?

Snorkeling equipment, snacks, sodas, water and an open bar are all included. Bring sunscreen, a towel and a change of clothes. The boat has shaded areas but sun protection is your call.

Does the boat have an engine, or is it really just sails?

No engine: the boat runs on sail alone. That's part of the pirate-ship experience and the eco-tourism approach. It means a quieter, slower pace than a motorized tour.