St Maarten: Snorkeling Turtles, Tintamarre & Pinel Island Day Trip

Summary

Swim with turtles at tintamarre island then rum punch on pinel beach

You’ll swim alongside turtles at Tintamarre Island, snorkel vibrant reefs near Creole Rock, and unwind on Pinel Island’s soft sand. With a local guide leading the way, enjoy a real BBQ lunch in Grand Case (no sandwiches here), plus open bar drinks as you soak up island rhythms. It’s relaxed but full of those small moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the way our guide, Billy, grinned when he handed me my mask — “You’ll see the turtles before you see me again,” he joked. I didn’t believe him until I slipped into that blue water off Tintamarre Island and there they were, just gliding along like it was nothing. There’s this salty tang in the air out here, mixed with sunscreen and a bit of engine oil from the boat. The sun felt hot even at 9 AM but nobody seemed to mind. A couple from Montreal tried to ask for “more ice” in French and the crew just laughed and handed over a whole bucket.

We hopped from Tintamarre to Creole Rock — honestly, I’d never seen so many fish colors outside of an aquarium. Our guide pointed out a parrotfish (I think?) and told us its name in Creole but I forgot it instantly. It’s weird how floating on your stomach with a snorkel can make you feel both brave and kind of silly at the same time. By the time we reached Pinel Island, my hair was stiff with salt and I’d already lost track of time. Lunch wasn’t some sad sandwich either — real BBQ at Grand Case, smoky and sweet, with sticky fingers and a cold drink that tasted like summer vacation.

I still think about that first sip of rum punch on the beach — sand stuck to my glass and everything just slowed down for a minute. There were kids chasing crabs near the waterline and someone’s reggae playlist drifting over from another group. It wasn’t fancy or perfect but it felt honest, you know? We all ended up talking about where we were from while drying off in the sun before heading back to Simpson Bay. If you’re looking for a day trip from St Maarten with turtles, real food, and easy laughter — well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and island tour with lunch

• Meet at start point at 9 AM
• Visit Tintamarre Island
• Snorkel with turtles and tropical fish
• Visit Creole Rock
• Visit Pinel Island
• Enjoy lunch at Grand Case French restaurant
• Sip rum punch on the beach
• Relax and work on your tan

Top questions

Where does the St Maarten snorkeling tour start?

The tour starts at Simpson Bay #62 Welfare Road with check-in at 8:45 AM for hotel guests.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at a BBQ restaurant in Grand Case (not sandwiches).

Do I need snorkeling experience?

No experience needed; flotation devices and beginner instructions are provided.

Which islands are visited during this tour?

The tour visits Tintamarre Island, Creole Rock, and Pinel Island.

Are drinks included?

Yes, there’s an open bar with beverages including rum punch throughout the day.

Is pickup available for cruise ship passengers?

No direct pickup; cruise passengers must provide ship details when booking for coordination.

Is this suitable for children?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; infant meals not included.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling gear with flotation devices and instructions for beginners if needed, free-flowing drinks from an open bar (including rum punch), a proper BBQ lunch in Grand Case (not just sandwiches), guidance from friendly locals throughout each stop—plus plenty of time to relax on Pinel Island before returning to Simpson Bay.