St. Maarten

Prior to boarding the yachts, you’ll be divided into teams and given a brief introduction before tendering to the yachts.

Compete in an actual race around a shortened ‘America’s Cup’ course, under the watchful eyes of experienced crew as you participate in the thrill of sailing these fabulous yachts. Everyone is offered a small task and given instruction by the crew. No sailing experience is necessary. Then it’s time to practice on the way to the start. The team’s timekeeper counts down, and with the wave of a red flag from the committee boat, you’re off!

Two classic thoroughbreds, nearly 70-feet long with masts the height of an 8 storey building, duel in an equal match for a fractional advantage. After such an exciting experience, there can be no losers! And so for all the competitors there will be a victory drink back on the dock.

‘12 Metre’ have developed a line of memorabilia and souvenirs and you’ll have the opportunity to browse through the ‘America’s Cup’ Museum Boutique after the Regatta.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat. Children may not participate. There are no toilet facilities on board the racing yachts. All participants should wear soft-soled shoes. T-shirts and shorts over swimwear are recommended as sea spray is likely. Bags and belongings can be stowed below during the race.

Take in the sights of Philipsburg, capital of Dutch St Maarten, and see its quaint ‘gingerbread’ houses. Drive along Salt Point Road and over Mountain Road to the south coast.

You’ll stop en route to enjoy the breathtaking views over Orient Bay and continue passing French Cul de Sac and Grand Casse. A stop will be made at Marigot for you to browse amongst the shops, or watch the world go by from a pavement café.

You’ll join the Explorer at Marina Royale for a short cruise across the calm lagoon, which stretches across the whole of the island to join both Dutch and French sides. On board, relax on the sun decks whilst listening to the rhythmic sounds of a calypso entertainer. There are 2 bars serving an array of spirits, beer, rum punch and soft drinks. Experience the Caribbean atmosphere, before arriving at Simpson Bay for the short return drive back to Philipsburg.

Essential information

This excursion operates by bus and on foot. The shops in Marigot will be closed on Sunday calls. Some shops also close during the afternoon siesta. Public toilet facilities are limited in Marigot, however local cafés and restaurants will allow use of their facilities upon purchase. Euro and US Dollar currency are accepted for purchases. This tour involves some walking over flat surfaces. Passengers must be able to negotiate the step onto and off the boat and steps to reach the upper level of the Explorer. Toilet facilities are available on the lower deck. Comfortable, non-slip shoes, a hat and sunscreen are advised. This tour may operate in reverse order.

Embark on a scenic drive through the Caribbean’s smallest island shared by two nations. Your journey will pass the Dutch capital, Philipsburg, and through the countryside towards the Dutch-French border. Look out for the stone monument, which is the only indication that you have entered the French side of the island. During your drive, you’ll notice the contrast between the two sides of the island.

You’ll drive through the bustling small French capital of Marigot, before heading to one of the island’s local beaches.

Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time at the beach to do as you please. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll, take a refreshing swim or relax on the warm sand, before the return drive to the port.

Essential information

This excursion operates by bus and on foot.The time spent at the beach is around 1½ hours, however this may vary depending on traffic conditions on the day. Swimming is subject to local weather conditions on the day. Sunbeds are not included and you are advised to bring US Dollars or Euros if wishing to hire sunbeds or purchase snacks and drinks. Please wear your swimsuit under clothes and bring a towel and protection from the sun. This tour involves limited walking, however passengers must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the bus and uneven sandy terrain at the beach. Please do not leave personal items on the bus. Order of itinerary may vary. There are no public toilet facilities on the beach. Passengers are advised to make a purchase from one of the restaurants and cafés, in order to use the toilets. Please make a note of the meeting point and time for the return drive. Buses cannot be held for latecomers.

Setting off from the port, you’ll take a scenic drive to Kim Sha beach in Simpson Bay, passing by the Cay Hill lookout point.

Upon arrival, you’ll be given a safety briefing and instruction before boarding your double or single kayak and setting off. You’ll head out into the Simpson Bay saltwater lagoon, paddling towards the Bellevue mangroves. Your guide will point out the wildlife species that make this area their home and the imaginary water border between the Dutch and French sides of the island.

From the mangroves you’ll paddle to a sandy beach within the bay, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Afterwards, you’ll rejoin your kayak and take a final paddle across to a beautiful cove. Here your adventure will end and a cooling refreshment will be offered, before the return drive to the port.

Essential information

This excursion operates by minibus and kayak. Participants should be competent swimmers and physically fit. There is a weight restriction of 250 pounds. Children under 9 may not participate. The kayaking will take approximately 1 hour with around 1 hour of free time on the beach. Please wear swimwear underclothes and take a hat, sunglasses, a towel and non-oil sunscreen. Water shoes are recommended, however you will be requested to remove shoes whilst in the kayak. You’ll be required to wear a life jacket.

This simple transfer to the French side will allow you to discover Marigot at your own leisure.

During your unguided journey, sit back and relax and take in the St Maarten scenery. Upon entering the French side of ‘St Martin’, your drop off point will be Marigot town square. A tour representative will greet you to assist with any questions you may have, and advise you of your return meeting point and time.

You’ll have around 1½ to 2 hours of free time to spend as you please. Perhaps take a stroll along the quaint harbour and promenade or relax in a nearby café and watch the world go by. During your visit, you may choose to browse the shops during opening hours.

Afterwards, you’ll meet as requested for the return drive to Philipsburg.

Essential information

This excursion operates by bus and on foot. This tour involves limited walking, however passengers must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the bus. Walking in Marigot is at passengers’ discretion. The shops in Marigot will be closed on Sunday calls. Some shops may also close during the afternoon siesta. A local open-air flea market may be in operation during your visit. There are varying pavement levels to negotiate. Public toilet facilities are limited in Marigot, however local cafés and restaurants will allow use of their facilities upon purchase. Euro and US Dollar currency are accepted for purchases. Please do not leave personal items on the bus. Please take careful note of the return time and meeting point as the bus cannot be held for latecomers.

Step aboard a high speed RIB at the pier, and embark on a foam-flying adventure along the coastline.

You’ll head to Simpson’s Bay and on to Marina Royale in Marigot. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy around 1 hour of free time to explore the quaint French capital.

Afterwards, you’ll whizz across to the south coast, where a snorkelling stop will be made. Discover the underwater marine life, or if you prefer, simply relax on the boat. You’ll then zip off to a local beach for a short stop. Relax on the warm sand or enjoy a quick dip in the clear Caribbean sea.

Throughout your tour, soft drink refreshments will be offered. Rum punch and beer will also be available on the return boat ride.

Essential information

This excursion operates by rigid inflatable boat. This tour is not suitable for those with back or neck injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under 4 may not participate. The RIB will anchor in shallow water with the easiest beach access possible, however passengers may at times be required to wade. The snorkel and beach stop may, at times, be combined. Please wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Some nudity may be observed on the beaches in St Maarten. Snorkel equipment is included. Participants must be competent swimmers. The shops in Marigot will be closed on Sunday calls. Some shops may also close during the afternoon siesta. A local open-air flea market may be in operation during your visit. This tour is dependent on weather conditions and may be cancelled at short notice.

This excursion is ideal for those passengers who have other plans in the morning but want to spend the afternoon at the beach. Board your transportation and enjoy the drive over to Orient Bay Beach, situated on the French side of island. Upon arrival at the beach, you will be greeted by your guide and given a brief orientation of the beach and facilities available. You’ll be supplied with a sun chair and will also be able to enjoy unlimited fruit punch from the nearby bar. You’ll have around 2 hours at the beach to relax in the sun or explore the stretch of sandy beach.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel, US dollars or Euros and sunscreen. Sections of the beach are ‘clothing optional’ and some nudity may be observed. Beach umbrellas are not included but are available for hire. There are independent suppliers on the beach that may offer watersports, these are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

Discover St Maarten in the most unique way as you take to the roads on a Harley Davidson.

After brief formalities, you’ll follow your guide on a scenic tour past the Simpson Bay Marina, through Maho and Mullet Bay, famous for its appeal to many visiting celebrities. Your convoy will then continue on to Marigot, the French capital, and Fort Louis.

You’ll ride across the north coast, taking in the countryside, and pass through the restaurant capital of Grand Case, before returning to Philipsburg.

A truly amazing experience, you’ll never forget.

Essential information

This excursion operates by bus and Harley Davidson. The price of this tour is per bike so please ensure that you only book one ticket. You are able to take a pillion passenger (must be over 18). Riders must be over 25 and bring a full, valid motorcycle licence and major credit card for insurance formalities. The Harleys are 1400cc and confidence in riding a bike of similar size is required. The choice of bike model is subject to availability. Passengers must wear the appropriate attire, long trousers or jeans and flat, closed toe shoes. Shorts are not permitted. Helmets must be worn at all times and participants must sign a collision damage waiver with a US $2500 excess.

You’ll join your biking guide at the pier, and after a short briefing you’ll set off along the Point Blanche road. Follow your guide along the colourful and bustling boardwalk into the heart of the Dutch capital, Philipsburg.

During your ride, you’ll take in some of the town’s highlights including St Maarten’s oldest hotel, the historical Courthouse, and Fort Amsterdam. You’ll also enjoy lovely views across the Caribbean sea from the Little Bay lookout point.

Your return ride will take you back along the boardwalk, with a short stop en route at Great Bay Beach. Perhaps take a brief refreshing dip in the ocean, before cycling back to the pier.

During your tour a cooling refreshment will be served in a local restaurant.

Essential information

This tour operates by bike and on foot. Pregnant women and children may not participate. This tour is only suitable for those in good physical condition. There is a weight restriction of 20 stone. The route is relatively flat and it is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. There is a fairly steep hill up to the fort which may prove difficult for beginners, however participants can choose to walk. Flat, closed toe shoes are essential and clothing suitable for bike riding is recommended. Helmets are provided and must be worn. Please remember sunscreen and for those wishing to swim at Great Bay Beach, please wear swimwear under clothes and take a towel. A back-pack style bag is advisable.

Embark on a short scenic drive to Guana Bay, located just north east of Philipsburg. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the trail entrance by your hiking guide where instruction and an informative talk will be given. You’ll also be provided with a bottle of water and a snack bar contained in a hip pack, before setting off.

You’ll head along the rocky trail that leads to Geneve Bay, offering lovely panoramic views along the way. During your hike, look out for the numerous cacti and plant life in the area. You may also catch a glimpse of the neighbouring island of St Barts. A short stop will be made at the rocky beach of Geneve Bay for you to admire the surf.

Afterwards you’ll turn back, heading along another trail to Guana Bay Beach and finally on to the Iguana Beach Bar. Here, you’ll be offered a welcome soft drink refreshment before the return drive to Philipsburg.

Essential information

Essential information. Children under the age of 10 and pregnant women may not participate. This tour is only suitable for those in good physical condition with no medical conditions. The hike takes around 2 hours over rough, uneven and rugged terrain, with some steep slopes. It is essential to wear flat, comfortable closed-toe walking shoes or boots with a good grip, suitable for hiking. Those without the correct footwear will be declined from taking part. This tour is not suitable for those who suffer with vertigo. Remember sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

The accent is very much on cosmopolitan French St Maarten, considered by many to be the most picturesque of this 2 nation island. Leaving Philipsburg, you’ll drive along the eastern side to the small fishing village of Grand Case.

At Grand Case Pier, you’ll board the Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine. Enjoy a 15 minute narrated tour of the coral reefs surrounding Creole Rock. Seaworld Explorer is a state-of-the-art semi-sub, allowing you to descend into the hull and sit in air-conditioned comfort 5 feet below the water’s surface. Discover the wonderful marine world in this cruising underwater observatory.

Back on dry land, you’ll continue to the French capital of Marigot, where you’ll have time for a spot of shopping.

Essential information

This excursion operates by bus and semi-sub. There are approximately 10 steep steps into the Seaworld Explorer’s hull. Visibility from the semi-sub is dependent on sea conditions on the day and marine sightings cannot be guaranteed. The semi-sub may be cancelled if weather conditions are unfavourable. The order of this itinerary may vary. Please be advised that shops in Marigot will be closed on Sunday calls. Some shops may also close during the afternoon siesta. Public toilet facilities are limited in Marigot, however local cafés and restaurants will allow use of their facilities upon purchase. This tour is subject to weather conditions and may be cancelled at short notice.

At just 37 square miles, St Maarten is quite unique with only a stone monument visible to indicate you have entered the French side. Setting off from the port, you’ll head through the Dutch side and the capital of Philipsburg, founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch Navy.

Afterwards, you’ll drive to the other side of the island to experience the French ‘St. Martin’. A short stop will be made at the small town of Marigot, the French capital. Here, you’ll have time to browse the open-air market (when available), stroll along the waterfront or through the picturesque streets with their inviting pavement cafés and shops.

Your return drive will cross back over to the Dutch side, passing through the seaside town of Grand Case en route, before arriving into Philipsburg.

Essential information

This tour will operate by bus and on foot. This tour involves limited walking, however passengers must be able to negotiate steps onto and off the bus. Walking in Marigot is at passengers’ discretion. Please be advised that shops in Marigot will be closed on Sunday calls. Some shops may also close during the afternoon siesta. Public toilet facilities are limited in Marigot, however local cafés and restaurants will allow use of their facilities upon purchase. Euro and US Dollar currency are accepted for purchases. Passengers who choose to remain in Philipsburg at the end of the tour will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship.

Setting off from the port, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive taking in the scenery surrounding Philipsburg. Your knowledgeable guide will enlighten you with interesting details of its eco-system.

You’ll then head to St Maarten Park, a small zoo and home to an amazing array of parrots, over 70 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians all housed in a tropical, garden setting. From the Jamaican Fruit Bats to a variety of monkeys, great care is given to these special animals which are part of a conservation project especially for Caribbean and South American species. During your visit you’ll be offered a refreshing drink.

Afterwards, you’ll continue through the mountainous Middle Region. Along this picturesque coastal road, you can view Tintemarre and the many smaller islets dotted in the Caribbean Sea. Skirt the eastern shore before heading back towards Great Bay. From the vantage point at the top of Orient Hill, the islands of Saba, Statia, St Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla are all visible. Enjoy a brief photo stop before heading back to Philipsburg.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. Passengers are requested not to use a flash when photographing animals. Please note that the animals at St Maarten Park do not all roam freely, they are all part of an ongoing conservation programme, but are housed and caged. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Experience beautiful surroundings whilst lazing in the shade of the 63-foot tall sail en route to your beach location.

Step ashore and laze on a beautiful beach whilst soaking up some sun. Take a swim in a quiet cove or try your hand at snorkelling. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters or relax on the sand.

The sails will be set for your return cruise downwind. Enjoy the scenery accompanied by local music and freshly made drinks. If you’re feeling peckish, you might like to indulge in a snack to round off your day on one of the most impressive catamarans in the Caribbean.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by catamaran. Children under the age of 4 may not participate. Snorkel equipment is included and participants must be competent swimmers. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and a towel. Depending on sea swells, an alternative anchorage may be used. The beach stop and snorkelling stop may take place at separate locations. Some nudity may be observed on beaches in St Maarten. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. Comfortable non-slip shoes or water shoes are recommended.