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⛵ Boating to St. Martin / Sint Maarten: Two Nations, One Epic Island-Hopping Adventure
  • By Capt. Ben Haddadnia
  • 29 June 2025

63. ⛵ Boating to St. Martin / Sint Maarten: Two Nations, One Epic Island-Hopping Adventure

Nestled in the heart of the northeastern Caribbean, St. Martin / Sint Maarten is the only island in the world amicably shared by two nations—France in the north and the Netherlands in the south. This dual-identity gem offers the perfect balance of sophistication and excitement, making it one of the most vibrant and accessible boating destinations in the Caribbean.

From gourmet dining in Grand Case to legendary beach parties in Simpson Bay, St. Martin/Sint Maarten is a must-visit for cruisers, yachties, and charterers alike. Here's your full guide to visiting by boat.

🧭 Where Is It?

  • Located about 190 miles east of Puerto Rico.
  • Divided into:
  • Saint-Martin (North): French territory known for quiet beaches and fine food.
  • Sint Maarten (South): Dutch territory, lively nightlife, and a hub for Caribbean yacht charters.

⚓ Where to Dock: Top Marinas

1. Simpson Bay Lagoon (Dutch Side)

One of the Caribbean’s largest natural lagoons and the beating heart of marine activity on the island.

  • 🛥️ IGY Isle de Sol MarinaWhy Go: Superyacht central with 5-star service.
  • Amenities: Full concierge, fuel, crew lounge, pool, customs/immigration.
  • 🛥️ IGY Simpson Bay MarinaWhy Go: Central and convenient for provisioning, repairs, and nightlife.
  • Highlights: Near airport, restaurants, and marine services.
  • 🛥️ Port de Plaisance MarinaWhy Go: Upscale, private feel with on-site casino, spa, and yacht club.

2. Marigot Bay (French Side)

  • Why Go: Quaint charm, open-air markets, French cafés.
  • Marina Fort Louis: Main marina on the French side with customs, fuel, and slips.
  • Nearby: Easy access to Grand Case and lovely beaches like Friar’s Bay and Happy Bay.

🌴 Top Places to Visit by Boat Around the Island

1. Grand Case

  • Known as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.”
  • Anchor just off the beach, dinghy ashore for French-Caribbean fusion cuisine and boutique shopping.

2. Maho Beach

  • Famous for watching planes land overhead—anchoring off is possible in calm weather.

3. Tintamarre Island

  • Uninhabited island just off the French coast. Gorgeous anchorage, turtle spotting, and a hint of wild.
  • Great for a quiet overnight stay under the stars.

4. Pinel Island

  • Shallow water, great snorkeling, and beach bars with a castaway feel.
  • Day anchoring available with beach chairs, grilled lobster, and rum punches waiting.

🥂 Must-Do Experiences

  • Dinghy Dock Bar (Simpson Bay): Classic cruiser hangout.
  • Loterie Farm: Jungle hikes and treetop lounging.
  • Sunset Sail around the island with views of both sides.
  • Carnival & Regattas: Time your visit with Heineken Regatta (March) for high-energy racing and epic parties.

🛂 Entry Requirements

  • Ports of Entry: Simpson Bay (Dutch) or Marigot Bay (French).
  • Documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Vessel registration
  • Crew/passenger list
  • Fees: Check for cruising and mooring permit costs—fees and rules may vary between the two sides.

🌊 Boating Tips

  • Bridge Openings: Simpson Bay Bridge and Sandy Ground Bridge have set schedules—plan your transits accordingly.
  • Weather: Enjoy reliable trade winds, but keep an eye on swell forecasts if anchoring outside the lagoon.
  • Provisioning: Ample grocery stores, markets, and marine supply shops—stock up here before heading to more remote islands.
  • Local Etiquette: French side tends to be quieter; Dutch side more party-oriented. Dress nicely for French restaurants, and don’t rush your meals!

🚤 Beyond St. Martin: Island Hops

  • Anguilla (12 NM): Quiet luxury and white-sand beaches.
  • St. Barts (15 NM): Glamorous, French-chic, and always buzzing.
  • Saba (30 NM): Volcanic cliffs and incredible diving.
  • Statia (20 NM): History-rich and sleepy, with hiking and forts.

🛥️ In Summary

St. Martin / Sint Maarten by boat is a one-of-a-kind cruising experience. You’ll find every convenience of a well-developed yachting hub—plus the wild beauty and cultural intrigue of the Caribbean’s best islands, all within a day’s sail.

Whether you're looking for beach bar bliss, gourmet indulgence, or a deepwater base to explore the Leewards, this is one destination you’ll return to again and again.

Need help planning your St. Martin boating adventure? BoatNCrew.com can connect you with captains, crews, provisioning services, and itinerary support for a seamless, unforgettable Caribbean experience.

Bienvenue & Welkom to paradise! 🇫🇷🇳🇱⛵🌞

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