On a cruise to Saint Martin, travellers get to taste two perfectly-packed cultures in just one stop. This Caribbean island oozes two completely different vibes, with Dutch and French influences nicely split on the northern and southern sections of the island. The northern French side is called St. Martin or Saint Martin, known for naked beaches, upmarket boutiques and fine-dining. The island’s capital is Marigot — once a sleepy fishing town transformed into a vibrant capital with luxury markets and a historic fort. Get your adrenaline pumping by trying the thrilling zipline in Loterie Farm or enjoying various watersports in Orient Bay. If you have more time to spend on the French island, take a day trip to Pinel Island or Tintamarre Island where you can snorkel or kayak. St. Martin is filled with busy sandy beaches and tranquil rocky coves, providing plenty to keep you entertained, so get ready for a holiday of a lifetime!
St. Martin Cruise Highlights
Marigot
Marigot
Nestled on the leeward side of St. Martin, Marigot is the quaint capital steeped with a mix of Old-World and contemporary charm. One of the most important points of interest in the island is Fort Louis — a defensive 18th-century fort perched atop a hill overlooking Marigot Bay. The short hike up the hill rewards travellers with panoramic views of Marigot and the nearby Anguila. Learn about the island’s history as you explore the ruins of the fortress and don’t miss out on witnessing the beautiful sunsets from here!
View from Pic Paradis
Pic Paradis
Want to admire uninterrupted views of the island? Head to Pic Paradise, the highest point of elevation in St. Martin soaring at a height of over 1,400 feet. This panoramic vista takes hikers less than three hours to reach, rewarding them with awe–inspiring views of all St. Martin, from north to south, as well as the neighbouring islands of Anguilla, Saba and St. Eustatius. If you don’t want to break a sweat, you can opt to drive or take the taxi to the summit, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm
Loterie Farm is a 135-acre nature reserve with lush forests and vegetation. It’s the perfect escape for travellers seeking a break from the beaches and hikes, set near the foot of Pic Paradis. Find inner healing as you meander through the scenic trails or take a relaxing dip in the private pools. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, why not brave a zipline ride amidst the treetops or conquer the obstacle courses? You can also savour locally-inspired dishes and refreshing drinks in the onsite tree-fringed restaurant.
St. Martin at a Glance...
Things to Do in St. Martin
Relax on a beach
The island boasts a host of stunning beaches to visit, including naked beaches! Some of the most tourist-famous spots are Grand Case Beach, Orient Bay Beach, Pinel Beach and Friar Beach. The first one has golden sun-kissed shores lapped by calm turquoise waters. This beach strip is lined with beach clubs, luxury accommodations and upscale restaurants. Meanwhile, Orient Bay Beach is a windswept paradise for adventurers, offering a variety of watersports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. If you’re on the hunt for seclusion and tranquillity, Friar Beach and Pinel Beach are good options.
Tintamarre Island
Swim with turtles at Tintamarre Island
Set sail for Tintamarre Island, a small island off the coast of St. Martin where you can snorkel with sea turtles. This uninhabited island brings visitors closer to nature, with gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters home to a thriving marine life. Don your snorkel equipment and search for sea turtles and nesting seabirds as you wade on the shallow waters. You can also stroll and beachcomb along the white sands of White Bay, where you’re likely to spot stingrays and turtles.
Make your own fragrance
Creating your signature fragrance is one of the most one-of-a-kind things to do in St. Martin. At Tijon Parfumerie, you can mix and match the base scent with your chosen formula and come up with your own personalised perfume! This activity is perfect for travellers seeking a break from the beaches and outdoor activities and want to try something different. Escape the ocean and inhale the scent of the sea, sun and sand!
St. Martin Cruises FAQs
How to get to and around St. Martin?
Renting a car is the cheapest and most convenient way to move around St. Martin. Regular cabs are available throughout the island. You can also charter a yacht if you plan to visit some nearby islands, such as Anguilla, Saba, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Barts and St. Eustatius.
Is St. Martin French or Dutch?
St. Martin is divided into two sides, French in the north and Dutch in the south, so are the official languages. French for Saint-Martin, while locals in Sint Maarten speak both Dutch and English.
What currency does St. Martin use?
The official currency of the French side is the Euro but US Dollars are also widely accepted.
When is the best time to visit St. Martin?
Since St. Martin is a Caribbean island, it enjoys warm and sunny weather all year-round. The dry season runs from December through April, which is considered the peak tourism season.
Which side of St. Martin does cruise ships dock?
The main gateway for cruises to St. Martin is Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side Sint Maarten, located on the southern coast of the island. The French side also has a cruise port in the capital of Marigot.
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