St Maarten Catamaran Cruise: Swim, Snorkel & Local Lunch

Summary

Catamaran day cruise in St Maarten with swimming food and local stories

You’ll sail along St Maarten’s coast on a relaxed catamaran day trip with stops for swimming at Simpson Bay and Maho Beach (yes, where planes roar overhead). Enjoy homemade barbecue lunch, fresh fruit salad, and unlimited drinks with a friendly crew who make you feel like part of the family. Expect laughter, local stories, and maybe even spot some tropical fish if you try snorkeling.

What’s the experience like?

I almost lost my hat to the wind before we even left Phillipsburg — Captain Robert just grinned and handed me a clothespin. That set the tone for the whole St Maarten catamaran day cruise: easygoing but somehow attentive in all the right ways. The boat (Hakuna Matata, which made me laugh) felt roomy but not too big. There were families with kids, a couple celebrating something (they didn’t say what), and us—just trying to remember how to relax.

First stop was Simpson Bay. The water was that weirdly clear blue you only see in postcards. I could smell barbecue drifting from the galley while Robert told us about sailing here from South Africa—his accent made everything sound like a secret. We swam off the back ladder; I’m not much of a snorkeler but gave it a go anyway, mostly because our guide Li promised we might spot sea turtles (“if they’re in the mood,” she joked). Didn’t see one, but plenty of striped fish darted around my ankles. Salt stung my nose a bit. Worth it.

Maho Beach was next—planes roaring overhead so close you could feel it in your chest. Kids on board shrieked every time one passed. Lunch was grilled chicken and ribs with this garlic bread that I still think about (seriously). The fruit salad had starfruit and something Li called “dragon fruit” — I’d never tried it before, kind of sweet and slippery. Unlimited drinks meant rum punch for most of us; someone spilled theirs on deck and nobody cared.

We drifted past Mullet Bay and La Semanna Beach after that. Some people napped in the shade or dangled their feet overboard. I just watched sunlight flicker through the sails for a while—not sure why that stuck with me. On the way back, Robert told more stories about storms he’d seen out here; he made them sound funny instead of scary somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran cruise with swimming and lunch

• Depart Phillipsburg at 9:00 AM
• Stop at Simpson Bay for swimming and snorkeling
• Stop at Maho Beach for sunbathing and swimming
• Stop at Mullet Bay for snorkeling and relaxing
• Stop at La Semanna Beach for swimming and sunbathing
• Enjoy homemade lunch with fresh local ingredients
• Relax on board or in the water
• Return to Phillipsburg around 4:00 PM

Top questions

What time does the St Maarten catamaran cruise start?

The cruise departs from Phillipsburg at 9:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM.

Are meals included on this St Maarten catamaran tour?

Yes, lunch is included along with snacks, fresh fruit salad, and unlimited drinks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this day trip?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Which beaches do we visit during the cruise?

The tour stops at Simpson Bay, Maho Beach, Mullet Bay, and La Semanna Beach.

Are children allowed on this catamaran cruise?

Yes, kids are welcome on board—families often join this trip.

Do I need to bring anything special for this day trip?

You should bring beach towels, sun protection, a smile, and motion sickness tablets if needed.

Are gratuities included in the price?

No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you feel the crew went above and beyond.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Phillipsburg marina.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing along St Maarten’s coastline with stops at Simpson Bay, Maho Beach (for plane spotting), Mullet Bay and La Semanna Beach for swimming or snorkeling—all gear provided—plus homemade lunch (grilled meats and fresh salads), unlimited alcoholic beverages or soft drinks, snacks throughout the day, bottled water whenever you want it, plus friendly crew service before sailing back to Simpson Bay in late afternoon.