St. Maarten Cruise Port: Best Things To Do On Shore
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
February 2025
St. Maarten cruise terminal (St. Maarten)
Have you booked a cruise that stops in St. Maarten? Awesome! Because on this stop you’ll have the opportunity to visit not one, but two countries (if you want)! This stunning Caribbean island provides visitors a destination that’s the best of both worlds — Dutch and French influences, all rolled into a ball coated in a Caribbean flair.
St. Maarten (and its counterpart, Saint Martin) offers visitors everything from beautiful beaches and secret coves, to a rich history demanding to be explored. From the bustle of St. Maarten’s capital, Philipsburg, to the slightly more laid-back vibe of the French side of the island, the following guide provides some tips and recommendations to help you plan your perfect day ashore. Let's dive into things to do in St. Maarten on a cruise.
Quick Tips
Driftwood Happy Grill (Maho Beach, St. Maarten)
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to St. Maarten.
A stop at the St. Maarten Cruise Port means you’ll have the opportunity to visit not just one, but two countries, in the same day!
The St. Maarten Cruise Port offers visitors a warm welcome to the island, with convenient amenities and only a short distance from the capital of St. Maarten, Philipsburg.
If you’re seeking a day at the beach, consider visiting Great Bay, Little Bay, Maho, Mullet Bay, Orient Beach or Friar’s Bay.
The island offers plenty of shopping opportunities: make sure to schedule some time at the Marigot Market during your visit.
Hike a hill or two to visit Fort Amsterdam and Fort Willem to learn more about the history of St. Maarten.
There are numerous opportunities to connect with nature on the island: consider visiting Loterie Farm, the Seaside Nature Park or Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary.
Take an island tour by bus, sea-faring vessel, or ATV.
Visit Topper’s Rhum Distillery to savor the true spirit of St. Maarten.
Indulge in a relaxing massage or consider staying a little longer on the island to take in the vibrant nightlife in Philipsburg and at Maho Beach.
Be sure to try local island delicacies such as guavaberry rum punch, Johnny cakes, conch fritters and freshly grilled seafood.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit St. Maarten and enjoy your day ashore!
Plan Your Trip
Orient Beach (Saint Martin)
Some of the links in this post might earn us a small commission if you make a purchase – but don’t worry, it won’t cost you anything extra! Supporting us this way helps us continue sharing our best travel content and tips. See our full disclosures for details. Thanks a million, and happy travels!
Planning to visit St. Maarten? Take advantage of the following recommended resources.
Book Your St. Maarten Adventure Now!
Choose from the top 15 attractions in St. Maarten!
Prefer other options? Click one of the ‘Book Now’ buttons below to explore even more exciting experiences tailored to your interests.
-
Book a cruise to St. Maarten with Celebrity. We are big fans of this cruise line.
Book a cruise to St. Maarten with Royal Caribbean
Research Caribbean cruises with CruiseDirect
-
While it’s tempting to skip the extra cost, travel insurance should be considered for domestic travel, and it’s a must for international travel.
TravelInsurance.com is an excellent comparison tool.
EKTA provides affordable plans with different coverage levels.
If you're planning outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, consider travel insurance that covers those activities.
-
Visit our Resources page for additional planning tips, strategies, and companies we recommend.
Where Exactly Is the St. Maarten Cruise Port?
View over Philipsburg Cruise Port (St. Maarten)
The St. Maarten Cruise Port (also known as the Philipsburg Cruise Port) is the main hub for travelers to the beautiful island of St. Maarten and Saint Martin (this might get confusing, but bear with us here!). Cruise ships dock on the south coast of the island, in the picturesque Great Bay, with the cruise port a short and convenient hop, skip and a jump from the vibrant capital city of the Dutch side of the island, Philipsburg.
The port has two piers — Arsene Hodge Pier (Pier 1) and AC Wathey Pier (Pier 2) — that can accommodate up to four cruise ships at a time, with most “big name” cruise lines including a stop at the St. Maarten Cruise Port on the majority of Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries.
With its easy access to the capital city’s attractions, stunning beaches, and bustling shopping areas, the St. Maarten Cruise Port is an ideal docking point for cruise ships. Whether you’re stepping off the ship for a day of adventure or a leisurely stroll, you’ll find everything you need within arm’s reach.
What Facilities and Services Are Available in the Port Terminal?
Statue of Dr. Claude Wathey (Philipsburg Cruise Port, St. Maarten)
Both the Arsene Hodge Pier and AC Wathey Pier are equipped with modern amenities, permitting visitors to feel comfortable from the moment they step foot off the ship. Inside the terminal buildings you’ll find conveniently laid out shops, restaurants, bars and restrooms, as well as the following.
Tourist Information Desk
An excellent place to start your time on land, where you can gather information on island tours and other activities, to help make the most of your visit to the island. As always, we recommend researching and booking tours and excursions in advance for the best experience and price.
Currency Exchange
Inside the terminal you’ll find a currency exchange office, where you can exchange U.S. dollars and other currencies into the local currency of the island, the Antillean guilder.
ATMs
There are multiple ATMs within the cruise port terminal, providing easy access to cash to help fund your adventures throughout St. Maarten and Saint Martin.
Additional Services
The restrooms and showers within the cruise port terminal are clean and accessible, and there is ample parking available just outside the terminal. This is also where you’ll find options for rental cars and taxis.
The terminal also houses numerous duty-free stores, offering visitors everything from jewelry to clothing, and unique souvenirs. Here you’ll also find several restaurants and bars, serving both local and international cuisine and providing visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. Consider taking a seat at the popular Port of Happy Hour or Sharky’s, the latter serving excellent cocktails and dishing up some fabulous live entertainment. Any of the lively bars and restaurants are an excellent choice for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The terminal at the St. Maarten Cruise Port is also fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators ensuring everyone can navigate the varying levels comfortably. With all these facilities, your time at the St. Maarten Cruise Port will be both convenient and hassle-free!
Getting Around St. Maarten and Saint Martin
ATV adventures (St. Maarten)
If you haven’t booked yourself on a shore excursion through your cruise line (which can always be an excellent way to see a lot of the island in a short amount of time, but can also be a little pricey), it’s easy to explore this twin-nation island on your own.
Getting into Philipsburg
Once you’ve stepped off your ship and on to land, getting from the St. Maarten Cruise Port into the capital of St. Maarten, Philipsburg, is quick and easy. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a quick ride on public transport, there are several options to suit your needs:
Water taxi. Taking a local water taxi is a quick, relaxing and scenic way to get to downtown from the cruise port. From the water you’ll be able to take in the beauty of Great Bay Beach before you hit land once again, at either the Philipsburg Marina, Captain Hodge Pier, or the Walter Plantz Square jetties. The water taxi costs visitors US$7 for an all-day pass, and it departs every 5-10 minutes.
Taxi. For a quicker option, consider taking a local taxi, readily and conveniently available near the cruise port terminal exit. The standard price for the short taxi ride from the cruise port to downtown Philipsburg is US$10 for one to two passengers.
Walk. The walk from the cruise port to downtown Philipsburg – the option we chose – won’t take you more than 20 minutes along the main road. The route is well marked and lined with shops and restaurants, making it a pleasant stroll, even in the heat of the day.
Things to See and Do in St. Maarten and Saint Martin
Maho Beach (St. Maarten)
Philipsburg
The capital city of the Dutch side of the island, Philipsburg, is compact enough that you can easily take in numerous attractions on foot or within a short taxi ride away. It’s the perfect place for a day of shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
Soak Up the Sun: Top Beaches Near the Cruise Port
St. Maarten’s beaches are famous for their beauty and accessibility, and with several within close proximity to the St. Maarten Cruise Port, they’re the perfect escape for cruise ship passengers looking to wile away a day at the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent at most beaches, with nearby beach bars offering visitors refreshing drinks, tasty snacks and great views.
Let’s explore some of the best beaches on the island!
Great Bay Beach
A quick 10-minute walk from the cruise port – in fact, it’s the closest beach to the cruise port! – to its most eastern edge, you’ll find Great Bay Beach, which stretches along Front Street in Philipsburg. This lively, popular beach is lined with beach clubs, bars, restaurants and shops, and visitors can grab a day pass that includes umbrellas and lounge chairs (ask in at places that include Big Bastards Beach Bar, Seaview Beach Hotel and Ocean Lounge for a day pass).
Whether you want to swim in the warm Caribbean waters, relax on a beach chair in the sun, or simply sip a tropical cocktail on Front Street, Great Bay Beach offers a little of something for all travelers.
Insider tip. Grab a chair at Ocean Lounge – a restaurant and bar that’s a part of the Holland House Beach Hotel – to take in the buzz of Great Bay Beach: it’s the perfect spot for people-watching.
Little Bay Beach
Less than 4km (2.48mi) just west of the cruise port, you’ll find Little Bay Beach. Known for its clear waters and opportunities for snorkeling and other water sports, it’s a peaceful and less-crowded option for cruise passengers. Even if you don’t want to spend the entire day here, it’s a great place to spend an hour or two to help you unwind after exploring the rest of the island. Or use it as a base for the day whilst also enjoying nearby local services (think relaxing spas!) or the numerous dining options in the area.
Maho Beach
Maho Beach (St. Maarten)
If there’s one thing Beck loves to do, it’s plane-spotting – and St. Maarten’s Maho Beach, right at the end of the Princess Juliana International Airport, is the perfect place to do it. At Maho Beach, a 30-minute drive west of the cruise port, you can stand – or lie on a beach chair or swim in the water – and immerse yourself in the unforgettable experience of watching planes fly low overhead as they land on the island. Maho Beach also offers visitors bars, restaurants, beach clubs, and souvenir stands to help you soak up the island’s beachy vibe.
Insider tip. Make sure to take your camera! There’s nothing like watching a 747 fly only a few feet above your head.
Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay Beach, only 5 minutes north-west of Maho Beach in St. Maarten, is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, with calm waters and fewer crowds. It’s a great spot for snorkeling or sunbathing.
Orient Beach
On the French side of the island, about 12km (7.45mi) north of the St. Maarten Cruise Port, you’ll find Orient Beach, a water sports paradise. This popular destination is a hub for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water activities. Orient Beach is also renowned for its crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and vibrant beach bars.
Rent your gear from Saint Martin Surf Club, or take a lesson from a local instructor if you’re new to some of the water sports on offer. You can also simply relax under a cabana with a refreshing cocktail or other cold drink in hand.
Friar’s Bay Beach
Ecofriendly initiatives (St. Maarten)
For one of the most beautiful, family-friendly beaches in the Caribbean, opt for Friar’s Bay Beach. A 30-minute drive to the north-west of the cruise port you’ll find yourself at this very relaxing, small, quiet beach on the French side of the island.
At Friar’s Bay Beach you can rent chairs and umbrellas for US$5-$20 per person (definitely money well spent, but note that the price may depend upon whether or not you choose to purchase drinks and/or food from the same establishment from which you’re renting the chairs!) and whilst some people claim the waves can be high (making it challenging for swimming), we found the beach to offer calm waters and an overall very peaceful vibe. Oh, and the snorkelling can be quite impressive here – with numerous opportunities to see turtles, colorful starfish, barracuda, and large schools of brightly colored fish.
There are also two beach bars along Friar’s Bay Beach, with good food and excellent, friendly service. Friar’s Bay Beach is definitely a hidden gem worth checking out for a peaceful day on a secluded beach with beautiful views.
Insider tip. Make sure you take cash to pay for anything during your visit to Friar’s Bay Beach.
Insider tip. The drive to and from Friar’s Bay will take you across the border (no passport necessary!) and through the capital city of Saint Martin, Marigot. On your way back to the cruise port, make sure to stop in at Marigot, a small town with a more laid-back vibe than you’ll find in Philipsburg, with a fantastic market and numerous bars and restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
Stepping Back in Time: Historical and Cultural Experiences on the Island
Shopping in Philipsburg ( St. Maarten)
Whilst they’re definitely stunning and certainly worthy of a visit during your time in St. Maarten, this twin island is not just about beaches — it’s also a destination brimming with rich history, deeply intertwined with its vibrant, local culture. Make sure to take some time to explore this side of the island’s personality as well!
Local Markets: Philipsburg and Marigot
Local markets (Philipsburg, St. Maarten)
The Philipsburg Market, located on Henrikstraat between C.A. Cannegieter Street and Back Street in the heart of downtown Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side of the island, is a great place to shop. A breezy 25-minute walk (or quick taxi ride) from the cruise port, here you’ll find a wide range of local handmade crafts (including pottery, jewelry, and intricate wood carvings), textiles, and rum. Take some time to browse through the bustling atmosphere amidst the many stalls … and don’t forget to buy a bottle of guavaberry rum as a souvenir — a local favorite.
For a taste of the French side of the island, head over to the capital city of Saint Martin, Marigot, where you’ll find the Marigot Market. This charming market, located near the main waterfront roundabout on the aptly-named Blvd de France, and offering a more laidback shopping experience than the hustle and bustle of Philipsburg, is a must-visit.
Marigot Market is another treasure trove of unique souvenirs, local artwork, t-shirts and beachwear, and handmade crafts: it’s the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind piece to take back home with you.
The Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit
Even if you’re not a Star Wars fan (Mike is, Beck is not) or a film enthusiast, take a wee peek into Philipsburg’s Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit – even if just for something a bit different!
Run by husband-and-wife team Nick and Gloria Maley, Nick is a make-up and special effects artist who worked on the original Stars Wars trilogy, including the creation of the legendary Jedi Master Yoda. Their museum features Star Wars memorabilia and interactive displays, and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of movie-making.
Fort Amsterdam and Fort William
Dive into the island’s rich history with a visit to either Fort Amsterdam or Fort William (or both!).
Visible from the St. Maarten Cruise Port is Fort Amsterdam, a Dutch colonial fort dating back to 1631. It’s a lovely walk (just under an hour) through downtown Philipsburg (or along the beach, if you prefer) to get here, or hire a taxi for the 4.7km (2.9mi) drive. Perched on a high cliff overlooking the sea, Fort Amsterdam sits on a peninsula that separates Great Bay from Little Bay. Today, its ruins serve as an open-air museum, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and a decent glimpse into the island’s storied past.
Fort William (also known as Fort Willem), just a few steps from Fort Amsterdam, stands as a smaller – yet equally captivating – fort, known for its picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea and Fort Amsterdam below. There are several ways to get to the top of Willem Hill, where you’ll find the fort – but remember it is at the top of a hill, so it’s a steep climb, no matter which route you choose! And whilst today there’s not much left of Fort Willem, it was the first of three forts built on the island, constructed by the British in 1801. Unfortunately, the Brits weren’t too savvy when it came to protecting their land, and the Dutch soon captured Fort William and renamed it Fort Willem, after their king.
Outdoor Activities: Connecting With Nature
Local wildlife (Philipsburg Cruise Port, St. Maarten)
St. Maarten is a haven for nature lovers, offering visitors a diverse range of wildlife and stunning natural attractions. Connect with nature through a wildlife tour, hiking, or even zip-lining, all of which allow you to explore the island’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty up close.
Loterie Farm: Nature Reserve
One must-visit attraction is the nature sanctuary Loterie Farm, located on the French side of the island, a half hour’s drive north-west of the St. Maarten Cruise Port. Loterie Farm is a green oasis offering visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and relaxing by a spring-fed pool. The farm is also home to local wildlife, so it’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the island’s lush landscape, whilst also learning more about the local fauna that inhabit it.
Seaside Nature Park
Another excellent destination to consider is the Seaside Nature Park, less than a 20-minute drive directly west of the cruise port. The park offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities that include horseback riding along the beach, snorkeling, and nature trails. Providing another unique opportunity for cruise ship passengers to see the island’s wildlife up close, a visit to Seaside Nature Park is the perfect excursion for nature enthusiasts. And if you’re traveling with young family or friends, they’re sure to love the trails and spotting iguanas and exotic birds along the way!
Insider tip. Consider combining a visit to the Seaside Nature Park with a visit to see planes land near Maho Beach, and there’s no question you’ll have a fantastic day in St. Maarten!
Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary
For a unique and interactive experience – one especially for bird lovers or anyone simply interested in learning more about birds of the Caribbean – the Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary is a must-see. Less than 6km (3.7mi) directly north of the St. Maarten Cruise Port, this charming sanctuary is home to a dazzling array of exotic bird species, including vibrant parrots, majestic macaws, and playful cockatiels. A visit offers you a unique chance to enjoy up-close encounters with these beautiful creatures, including feeding sessions and photo opportunities.
The park also features a lush garden filled with numerous plants and flowers, making it a tranquil place to spend some quiet time with nature. Whether you’re a family with kids or a solo traveler, Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary offers a delightful escape into the world of avian wonders.
Island Tours: Taking in all the nature!
Many tour operators in and around the St. Maarten Cruise Port offer visitors comprehensive island tours that will take you to some of St. Maarten’s most beautiful natural attractions, including its pristine beaches, hidden coves, scenic lookout points, and some of the attractions mentioned above.
Whilst you’re touring around, make sure to keep an eye out for some of the island’s most popular wildlife:
sea turtles
dolphins
whales (seasonal)
tropical birds
iguanas
monkeys
Exploring More of St. Maarten and Saint Martin: Island Tours
ATV Island Tour (St. Maarten)
Arriving into the St. Maarten Cruise Port provides visitors numerous opportunities to discover more of the island through a structured guided tour, whether by boat, ATV, or on an air-conditioned mini bus or large coach. These tours generally take visitors to both the French and Dutch sides of the island to discover hidden gems, stunning beaches, and various cultural attractions.
A land-based guided tour generally permits you to learn more about the culture and history of this twin nation island, as well as take in some of the lesser-known roads. You’ll enjoy scenic views and can book either through your cruise line for less hassle and greater convenience, else once you arrive into port (there will be plenty of friendly tour touts hanging around the cruise port awaiting your arrival!).
A water-based guided tour or excursion will afford you the chance to see the island from a different perspective: the ocean! You’ll be able to sail past stunning coastlines and then dive into the clear waters and explore beneath the surface.
Many tours and excursions are designed specifically for cruise ship passengers, so you’ll find you’re picked up from a convenient location and dropped back well in time to re-board your ship before the evening sail away party begins.
ATV Island Tour
We chose to explore as much as we could of the island by renting an ATV from Blue Bubbles Sports and Tours in downtown Philipsburg. We walked into town and easily found their shopfront – they’re just past the very lively Iglesia Arca del Neuvo Pacto on C.A. Cannegieter Street. We were given three options: a private tour with guide, a group tour with guide (at a specific time of day), or to rent the ATVs and explore on our own. After discussing our options in depth, we opted for the “let’s explore on our own!” and don’t regret it for a second.
There are numerous companies in Philipsburg offering ATV rentals and tours, else most cruise lines will also offer this option for cruise ship passengers (ours did, but we found it a bit cheaper by cutting out the middle person and going direct to Blue Bubbles).
Time of our life! (St. Maarten)
Whether you choose a guided tour or a private rental, adventure-seekers will find jumping atop an ATV a wonderful way to see island life up close: along beautiful winding back roads and through stunning landscapes. Rent your own and go at your own pace: mark a spot on the map and head there, or do some research in advance about the places you’d like to see. We found the welcoming and friendly staff at Blue Bubbles incredibly helpful in recommending places for us to stop along the way as we circumnavigated the entire island.
If an ATV isn’t really your thing (and that’s totally okay!), other great ways to see the island by land include hiking and/or biking. Perhaps you want to take a guided bicycle tour of Philipsburg, the capital city of St. Maarten? It’s a great way to enjoy the scenic views of the city and the harbor of Great Bay at a slightly slower pace. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the island from your guide.
Sail and Snorkel Tour
Another fantastic way to see a lot of the island in one day is to jump aboard a catamaran or sailboat. Many sea-based tours head out to Creole Rock, in the far north of the island, on the Dutch side. Here you’ll discover one of Saint Martin’s best snorkeling spots: swim with large schools of colorful fish over brightly-colored coral reefs, and enjoy other diverse marine life (yes, there’s even turtles!) before jumping back on board your boat to enjoy the stunning coastline on your return to the cruise port (usually sipping on locally-sourced rum provided by your captain).
Other water-based activities worth considering during your visit to St. Maarten include windsurfing and kitesurfing. Orient Bay and nearby Le Galion Beach (both on the Dutch side of the island, about 25 minutes north of the St. Maarten Cruise Port) are two of the top spots for windsurfing and kitesurfing on the island. Consider booking a class with a local instructor or renting all the gear you’ll need at the always-popular Saint Martin Surf Club.
Shopping on the Island: Local Crafts and Souvenirs
Marigot Market (Saint Martin)
No trip to St. Maarten is complete without picking up some local handicrafts and souvenirs. The island boasts several vibrant markets where you can find unique handmade items and artwork that capture the essence of this Caribbean paradise. Make sure to visit the local markets in both Marigot and Philipsburg during your stay!
Another great place to shop is Front Street in Philipsburg, a popular shopping destination lined with duty-free shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores.
For a more quaint shopping experience, stroll down Old Street in Philipsburg, where you’ll discover a mix of local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries.
Some popular local crafts and souvenirs to look out for in St. Maarten and Saint Martin include:
handmade jewelry
wood carvings
pottery
textiles
artwork
rum and other island-made spirits
Whether you’re looking for a special gift or a small memento of your trip, the island’s markets and Philipsburg’s shops will no doubt have it in stock for you!
Handcrafted Rums: Topper’s Rhum Distillery
With its rich history and delicious offerings, Topper’s Rhum Distillery is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the true spirit of St. Maarten (yes, pun intended!).
Nestled in a picturesque setting surrounded by lush greenery, Topper’s Rhum Distillery offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the art of rum-making. Just 15 minutes west of the cruise port, the distillery is a great opportunity to take a guided tour to learn about the island’s rum-making history and the meticulous process of creating their unique blends. The tour culminates in a tasting session where you can sample a variety of handcrafted rums, including tantalizing flavors that include coconut, mango, and pineapple.
Insider tip. With its close proximity to both the Seaside Nature Park and Maho Beach, consider combining all three for a fantastic day out in St. Maarten.
Relaxation: Time to Indulge!
Find your happy place (Saint Martin)
After a day of exploring, we travellers often find ourselves in need of some serious down time – especially if it’s been a hot day out and about on an ATV! One of the best ways to relax and unwind in St. Maarten is by indulging in a spa treatment.
Indulgence by the Sea Spa, located near Fort Amsterdam on the western side of Great Bay, is the usual go-to for a luxurious spa treatment. At this retreat you can indulge in a rejuvenating massage, exfoliating facial, mani or pedi (amongst many other options!), helping you to recharge in a tranquil space before heading back to your ship at the cruise port. Indulgence by the Sea even offer couples’ packages – we say, why not? It’s easy to book your treatment online before you even arrive in St. Maarten.
Nightlife and Entertainment on the Island
Front Street nightlife (Philipsburg, St. Maarten)
Whilst this overview of the St. Maarten Cruise Port and the twin island nation of St. Maarten and Saint Martin is intended mostly for those visiting on a cruise ship, we appreciate there may be some of you reading this who are staying on the island a little longer than a few hours. So this section is for you! Because when the sun goes down in the Caribbean, St. Maarten comes to life with a different sort of vibe, complete with Caribbean tunes, dancing, nightclubs, and casino action.
Maho Beach
It turns out that Maho Beach isn’t just famous for its daytime thrilling plane-spotting (though that still remains one of Beck’s all-time favorite things to do!) — at night it turns into a happening party hub. Enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the several beach bars along the water’s edge, experience local live music, or hit up a nearby club to dance the night away.
In the heart of Maho Village is Casino Royale, St. Maarten’s premier gaming haven. Casino Royale is complete with classic table games and 400 slot machines (including the only Bingo slots on the island!), a separate poker room, top-class weekly entertainment in the Deja Vu Lounge (including theater and jugglers!), and Sportsbook, for those looking to place some cheeky bets on their favorite sports team back home. Try your luck with some of the casino games or simply sit back and people-watch!
Philipsburg
The story of the Blue Bitch Bar (Philipsburg, St. Maarten)
In the capital city of St. Maarten, Philipsburg, you’ll also find a range of bars and clubs. Many of the capital’s beaches feature beach bars, where you can sip on a cocktail and enjoy the sound of the waves right at your feet. These bars and clubs often host live music and DJ parties, making them perfect for a fun night out.
No matter your preference, St. Maarten’s nightlife scene has something to offer everyone staying overnight, ensuring your evenings are just as exciting as your days of exploration and relaxation.
Food and Drink: A Taste of St. Maarten
Chicken curry at Francis Restaurant (Marigot, Saint Martin)
A trip to St. Maarten is never complete without indulging in the island’s diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try local delicacies such as guavaberry rum punch (the island’s national drink, which pairs well with much of the local food), Johnny cakes, conch fritters and freshly grilled seafood.
If you’re a real foodie (like Mike!), you may even wish to consider taking a food tour to gain an in-depth look into the local cuisine of both St. Maarten and Saint Martin – that’s right, you’ll be basically tasting your way around the island!
Food tours not really your thing, but you’d still love to try some of the best the island has to offer you and your taste buds? Dine out for lunch (we thoroughly enjoyed a hearty meal at Francis Restaurant in Marigot, on the French side of the island) or enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the many beach bars around the island. And if you don’t want to miss your ship’s departure time (because it can be very expensive to try and catch up to a cruise ship at their next port of call!), maybe have a cheeky afternoon tipple at one of the many cafes, bars or restaurants along Front Street in downtown Philipsburg, the capital of St. Maarten, less than 20 minutes by foot from your ship’s gangway.
St. Maarten Practicalities
Okay, so you’ve got your day planned and you’re raring to get off the ship and explore the island as soon as you’ve docked and the ship has been cleared by customs. What else do you need to know before you set foot on St. Maarten?
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your St. Maarten Cruise Port visit:
Currency. The official currency of St. Maarten is the Antillean guilder, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The latter makes transactions on the island nice and easy for American visitors in particular. Make sure to carry with you some local currency for smaller vendors and local markets: you’ll find a currency exchange booth in the cruise port terminal.
Language. Because the island is split into two nations, it also has two official languages: Dutch (St. Maarten, “the Dutch side”) and French (Saint Martin, “the French side”). English is also widely spoken on both sides of the island due to the heavy influence of tourism, and is actually considered the primary language used in daily island life. You may also hear some locals speaking Spanish or Creole.
Weather. St. Maarten enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 70°F and 90°F (20-30°C) year round. Make sure to pack light, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated throughout the day.
By keeping these additional tips in mind, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy all that St. Maarten (and Saint Martin, should you also choose to venture that way) has to offer!
Final Thoughts
Philipsburg Cruise Port (St. Maarten)
From beautiful beaches to delicious local cuisine and a vibrant nightlife, St. Maarten offers visitors an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Whether you prefer relaxing by the water or exploring an island's cultural gems, there’s no shortage of activities to help fill your day in port. Take a leisurely ride on a water taxi to downtown Philipsburg, enjoy the incredible views from atop Fort Willem, shop-til-you-drop along Front Street, enjoy the thrill of plane-spotting at Maho Beach, or wander the treasure trove of souvenirs at the Marigot Market on the French side of the island … all before relaxing at a waterfront café in Philipsburg ahead of making your way back to your ship for the evening sail away party.
We trust this guide helps you make the most of your time in St. Maarten (and, of course, Saint Martin!) and inspires you to embrace every moment of your visit to the island. Happy cruising, fellow wanderers!
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
