St Maarten: Speed Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Beach Lunch

Summary

Snorkel reefs swim wild Tintamarre and watch planes at Maho Beach

You’ll zip across turquoise water by speed boat with a local captain, snorkel colorful reefs at Creole Rock, swim near wild turtles at Tintamarre Island, and eat French sandwiches on Pinel’s soft sand. Watch planes thunder overhead at Maho Beach before heading back sun-kissed—with stories you’ll want to tell again.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the sound—engine humming under us, water slapping the hull, and that salty wind whipping my hair as we pulled away from St Maarten’s docks. Our guide, Jean-Luc (he called himself “Captain J-L”), grinned like he’d done this a thousand times but still loved it. There was a group from Montreal next to us, already laughing about sunscreen disasters. I just tried not to drop my sunglasses overboard.

The first stop was Creole Rock for snorkeling. The water was so clear I could see my own feet dangling in blue-green light. Fish everywhere—yellow stripes, something that looked almost purple? It’s weird how quiet it gets when you’re underwater except for your own breathing. Jean-Luc tossed some bread and suddenly there were twice as many fish. I got a mouthful of saltwater trying to laugh.

We sped out to Tintamarre Island after that—a wild place, no hotels or bars, just sand and turtles if you’re lucky (we were). Someone spotted one right away and the whole group drifted over, half-whispering so we wouldn’t scare it off. I didn’t expect to feel so calm just floating there. Lunch came later on Pinel Island—French sandwiches with ham and cheese or tuna (I picked chicken), eaten with sandy fingers under palms while iguanas eyed us up like they might steal a bite if you blinked.

The last bit was Maho Beach—the famous one where planes roar right overhead. It’s louder than you think; everyone cheered when a big jet came in low enough to rattle your bones. On the way back I realized my shoulders were sunburnt and my face hurt from grinning so much. Still think about that turtle sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day boat tour and snorkeling

• Board the boat from St Maarten
• Snorkel at Creole Rock reefs
• Swim with sea turtles at Tintamarre Island
• Relax on Pinel Island beach
• Enjoy French gourmet sandwiches for lunch
• Watch planes land at Maho Beach
• Listen to live commentary from guide
• Return to cruise ship with transfers

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this St Maarten boat tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear and flotation noodles is included for all guests.

Does the tour include lunch or snacks?

Yes, French gourmet sandwiches are served for lunch along with snacks and drinks.

How long does the speed boat tour last?

This is a full day boat charter with multiple stops around St Maarten and Saint Martin.

Are alcoholic beverages provided?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are included along with soda and bottled water.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is hotel or cruise ship pickup included?

The tour includes guaranteed on-time transfers from your cruise ship and back.

What islands or beaches will we visit?

You’ll stop at Creole Rock for snorkeling, Tintamarre Island for swimming with turtles, Pinel Island for lunch and beach time, plus Maho Beach to watch planes land overhead.

Is this speed boat tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day covers pickup from your cruise ship or nearby transport point, all snorkeling equipment plus life jackets and pool noodles, bottled water and sodas throughout the trip, alcoholic drinks if you want them, snacks along the way, a French sandwich lunch on Pinel Island—and of course Captain Jean-Luc (or someone just as local) guiding you every step until you’re safely back ashore.