St. Maarten: SNUBA Adventure at Little Bay by Boat

Summary

Little Bay’s underwater world on a guided SNUBA trip from Bobby’s Marina

You’ll start right by Bobby’s Marina in St. Maarten before heading out by boat for a guided SNUBA session in Little Bay—with all equipment ready for you. Expect friendly help from your guide (and probably some jokes), plus time underwater exploring without needing any diving certification. It’s relaxed but memorable—the kind of thing you’ll remember when you catch yourself daydreaming later.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how salty the air tasted as we waited at Bobby’s Marina—right by the cruise ships, so you can’t really miss it. Our guide, Mark, waved us over with that easy island grin and handed out fins that felt colder than I expected. There was this low hum from the boats nearby, and honestly, I was a little nervous because I’d never tried SNUBA before. It’s supposed to be for anyone who can swim (they really mean it), but still, my heart thudded as we climbed onto the boat.

The ride out to Little Bay only took about ten minutes, but somehow it felt longer—maybe because I kept watching the water change color under the sun. Mark explained how SNUBA works (it’s like scuba but your tank floats on a raft above you), and he checked everyone’s mask straps twice. He joked about my “snorkel hair” sticking up—I think he does that to get people to relax. The water was warm when I finally slid in, way warmer than back home, and there was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with salt and something greenish from the bay itself.

I didn’t expect to hear much underwater except my own bubbles, but there were these clicking sounds—Mark said it was shrimp or maybe some kind of fish talking (I’m still not sure if he was serious). We drifted over soft sand patches and coral bits; at one point, a blue tang zipped past my hand so fast I nearly laughed through my regulator. You don’t go deep—just enough to feel weightless and see things up close without worrying about tanks or training. The whole time Mark kept checking on us with these big gestures underwater; he even pointed out a sea cucumber that looked like an old slipper.

Back on the boat after maybe an hour in Little Bay, everyone smelled like salt and neoprene and someone’s banana sunscreen. There was this quiet happiness—like we’d all done something new together without making a big deal about it. I still think about floating there looking up at the light breaking through the surface—you know that feeling when you’re both tired and kind of wide awake? That’s what stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — SNUBA diving in St. Maarten

• Meet at Bobby's Marina
• Park near gas station by cruise ships
• Take 10-minute boat ride to Little Bay
• Participate in guided SNUBA diving

Top questions

Do I need scuba certification for SNUBA in St. Maarten?

No, SNUBA doesn’t require any certification or formal training—just basic swimming ability.

Where does the St. Maarten SNUBA tour start?

The meeting point is Bobby's Marina near J Yrausquin Blvd., close to the cruise ship area.

How long is the boat ride to Little Bay for SNUBA?

The boat ride from Bobby's Marina to Little Bay takes about 10 minutes.

Is there an age limit for SNUBA in St. Maarten?

The minimum age is 8 years old; there is no maximum age listed.

Are there medical restrictions for joining this SNUBA tour?

Yes, certain conditions like asthma (with inhalers), spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health are not recommended; a waiver is required.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear for this tour?

No, all necessary SNUBA and snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Is public transportation available near Bobby's Marina?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby the meeting point.

How deep do you go during the SNUBA activity?

You stay in shallow water; it’s designed for snorkelers and novice divers who want an easy introduction to underwater exploration.

What’s included

Your day includes a short 10-minute boat ride from Bobby's Marina to Little Bay with all SNUBA and snorkeling equipment provided; you'll be guided through a shallow water diving program suitable for swimmers ages 8 and up before returning back by boat at the end of your adventure.