St Maarten Shore Excursion: Island Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg

When your cruise ship docks in Philipsburg port, meet your guide for your St Maarten shore excursion, and get ready to explore the highlights of this Caribbean treasure. You’ll experience both sides of this Dutch- and French-colonial island, which covers just 37 square miles (60 square km) in the Lesser Antilles, and stop at scenic spots along the way.

First, head to the north end of the island, on the French side, to one of its most serene and remarkable beaches, Grand Case Beach, where you can stroll along the pure white shore. Swim or sunbathe, stretching out on the soft sand as you marvel at the turquoise water that sparkles in the tropical sunlight.

Then, in the Caribbean’s gourmet capital, Grand Case, you’ll find a diverse selection of local cuisine. Try a traditional dish such as a scrumptious Johnny Cake – a fried cornmeal pancake – for lunch (own expense), or sample guavaberry rum punch (a tasty rum drink made from the island berries) or sip a soda or beer on the beach (one drink included).

Then, head to Marigot, the charming capital of St-Martin, and take in the French atmosphere where shops line the colonial streets and an open-air bazaar surrounds the central square. Next, your guide will take you back to the Dutch side to Maho Beach, where you can watch planes approach at a close distance as they land at the adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport.

Your shore excursion ends with a drive past Simpson Bay on your return to the cruise port. If you wish, you may request to be dropped off in Philipsburg to explore on your own instead of being dropped off at the port. If you do so, however, the worry-free shore excursion policy no longer applies; see Additional Information for details.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:

We will ensure your timely return to the Philipsburg port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.