St Maarten is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for cruise ships. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant culture.
If you are planning a cruise to St Maarten, you may be wondering where your ship will dock. In this article, we will explore the different cruise ports in St Maarten.
The Port of Philipsburg
The Port of Philipsburg is the main cruise port in St Maarten. It is located on the Dutch side of the island and can accommodate up to six ships at a time. The port has two docking areas – the Dr. A.C. Wathey Pier and the Walter Plantz Square Pier.
Dr. Wathey Pier
The Dr. Wathey Pier is the largest pier in St Maarten and can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at a time. The pier is named after Dr. Claude Wathey, who was a prominent politician and businessman in St Maarten.
When your ship docks at this pier, you will be within walking distance of Philipsburg’s famous Front Street, which is lined with duty-free shops, restaurants, and bars.
Walter Plantz Square Pier
The Walter Plantz Square Pier is located next to the Dr. Wathey Pier and can accommodate two smaller cruise ships at a time. This pier is named after Walter Plantz, who was a former governor of the Netherlands Antilles.
When your ship docks at this pier, you will also be within walking distance of Front Street as well as other attractions such as the Guavaberry Emporium and St Maarten Museum.
The Port of Marigot
The Port of Marigot is located on the French side of St Maarten and can accommodate one small cruise ship at a time. The port is located in the heart of Marigot, which is the capital of the French side of the island.
When your ship docks at this port, you will be within walking distance of Marigot’s colorful market, where you can buy local handicrafts and souvenirs. You will also be near several restaurants and cafes that offer delicious French cuisine.
The Port of Simpson Bay
The Port of Simpson Bay is a private marina that can accommodate several small cruise ships at a time. The marina is located on the Dutch side of St Maarten, just a short distance from the airport.
When your ship docks at this marina, you will have access to several shops and restaurants within walking distance. You can also take a short taxi ride to nearby attractions such as Maho Beach or the famous Sunset Bar and Grill.
- Tip: Make sure to check with your cruise line to see which port your ship will dock at in St Maarten.
- Tip: If you are planning on exploring the island on your own, make sure to allow enough time to get back to your ship before it departs.
In Conclusion
St Maarten offers several options for cruise ship passengers when it comes to docking ports. Whether you dock at Philipsburg, Marigot, or Simpson Bay, you are sure to have a memorable experience on this beautiful Caribbean island. Don’t forget to take advantage of all that St Maarten has to offer – from its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.