What Is There to Do in St Maarten on a Cruise?

By Robert Palmer

St. Maarten is a popular destination for cruise ships in the Caribbean. This small island offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy during their stopover. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, St. Maarten has something for everyone.

Beaches and Water Activities
St. Maarten is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island has 37 beaches to choose from, each with its own unique features. Some of the popular beaches include Maho Beach, Mullet Bay, Orient Bay, and Great Bay Beach.

If you are interested in water activities, St. Maarten offers snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, and more. These activities can be booked through your cruise ship or through local tour companies.

Shopping and Dining
St. Maarten is a duty-free port which means that there are no taxes on goods sold in the area. This makes it an excellent destination for shopping enthusiasts who want to buy jewelry, watches, perfumes, and other luxury items.

Aside from shopping, St. Maarten also offers a diverse food scene with many local restaurants serving traditional Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken and conch fritters. You can also find international cuisine options such as Italian and French restaurants.

Nature and Wildlife

For those who love nature and wildlife, St. Maarten has several options to explore the island’s natural beauty including hiking trails through lush forests or visiting the Butterfly Farm where you can see hundreds of butterflies in their natural habitat.

Another popular attraction is the Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten Rockland Estate Park which features zip-lining tours of the rainforest canopy as well as a giant slide that takes you down a mountain.

Cultural Activities

St. Maarten has a rich cultural history influenced by Dutch and French colonization which can be seen in the architecture and traditions of the island. One of the popular cultural activities is visiting the St. Maarten Museum which showcases the island’s history and culture.

Another option is taking a tour to explore different parts of the island such as Philipsburg, Marigot, and Grand Case where you can see historical landmarks, art galleries, and local markets.

  • Beaches and Water Activities
  • Shopping and Dining
  • Nature and Wildlife
  • Cultural Activities

In conclusion, St. Maarten offers a wide range of activities for cruise ship passengers to enjoy during their stopover. Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach or adventure in nature, this island has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try some local cuisine and take some time to explore the history and culture of this beautiful destination.