St. Martin: Mini-Speed Boat Snorkeling Tour & Happy Bay

Summary

Snorkel Creole Rock or unwind at Happy Bay Beach by boat

You’ll captain your own mini-speed boat along St. Martin’s coastline with a local guide leading the way — past mega-yachts and hidden bays — before snorkeling at Creole Rock or relaxing on Happy Bay Beach. Expect salty air, friendly laughter, and those small moments that stick with you long after your towel dries.

What’s the experience like?

“Wait, I’m driving this thing?” That’s what I blurted out when our guide, Jean-Luc, handed over the keys to the Rhino Rider. He just grinned and pointed out where to stash my flip-flops so they wouldn’t fly off (they almost did anyway). The water around Simpson Bay Lagoon was that perfect blue you only see in postcards, but it actually smells a little salty-sweet up close, and the engine vibrates under your hands — not scary, just enough to make you feel awake. We zigzagged past yachts so huge you could see people sipping coffee on the decks; someone waved at us and my friend tried to wave back but nearly dropped her sunglasses. I still laugh thinking about it.

Once we slipped under the French bridge, everything changed — the wind picked up and suddenly there was Marigot’s skyline with Fort Louis watching over us like some old pirate movie set. Jean-Luc kept tossing out facts about who owned which mega-yacht (I think he said U2’s boat was anchored there once?) but honestly, I was more focused on not bumping into anything. We sped past Gallis Bay and he pointed out a rusted shipwreck poking above the waterline — apparently it’s a landmark for locals. And then came Happy Bay Beach: goats munching on the hillsides, palm trees leaning like they’d had a long day. No crowds, just soft sand and that hush you get when everyone’s too happy to talk much.

I went for the snorkeling option at Creole Rock — didn’t expect to see so many fish right away. The guide tossed me a mask that still smelled faintly of last night’s sunscreen (not complaining). There were these bright parrotfish darting around and a couple of starfish clinging to rocks below. Someone said they spotted a turtle but I missed it because I got distracted by a school of tiny yellow fish swirling around my knees. Afterward, we just floated for a while; sun on my back, water warm enough that you forget time for a bit.

On the way back, Jean-Luc told stories about full-moon parties at Friars Bay and how locals sneak over to Lover’s Beach when no one’s looking. My hair felt sticky from salt and my arms were tired in that good way you get after swimming all afternoon. If you’re even half-tempted by this mini-speed boat snorkeling tour in St. Martin, just do it — even if you’re nervous about driving (I was), you’ll be fine. It’s less about being perfect and more about laughing with strangers as you bounce across the water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rhino boat tour and snorkeling adventure

• Arrive at Rhino HQ
• Receive safety gear and snorkeling equipment
• Attend operational briefing
• Perform supervised test spins on Rhino
• Follow guide through Simpson Bay Lagoon
• Pass luxury yachts and mega yachts
• Cross Dutch causeway and St Martin border
• Enter Caribbean Sea under French bridge
• Explore Marigot bay and view Fort Louis
• Visit Gallis Bay and see shipwreck
• Speed towards Lover’s Beach and Friars Bay
• Arrive at Happy Bay beach
• Moor Rhino and enjoy 40-minute break
• Swim, snorkel, or relax on beach
• Proceed to Grand Case village shore
• Snorkel at Creole Rock marine park
• Observe Caribbean marine wildlife
• Relax on Rhino or enjoy complimentary drink

Top questions

Do I need boating experience for this tour?

No experience is needed; guides give full instructions before departure.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkel gear is included for use at Creole Rock or near Happy Bay.

How long does the mini-speed boat snorkeling tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Can children join this St. Martin speed boat tour?

Yes, riders of any age can participate; infants can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at Rhino HQ in Simpson Bay Lagoon area.

Are there options if I don’t want to snorkel?

You can relax on Happy Bay Beach or stay on your Rhino Rider during the break.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses; valuables can be stored safely with staff.

Is this speed boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible including transport options nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes use of your own Rhino Rider mini-speed boat with fuel provided, bottled water or soda onboard, all safety equipment plus life jacket and snorkel gear (and noodles if you want them), as well as guidance from friendly local staff throughout your adventure—just show up ready for sun and saltwater fun before heading home sandy but happy.