A whole day on a private catamaran feels special. You sail around St. Maarten with Captain Mike, stop for swims at Long Bay, Tintamarre Island, and Little Bay, and keep things easy with snacks, lunch, and an all-day open bar.

I love the service rhythm here. Elmira and the crew keep drinks and food coming so you’re not hunting anyone down, and Captain Mike adds useful tips while you cruise. I also like that this day is built for real time in the water with snorkel gear and paddle-board options during the swim breaks.

One heads-up: you’re responsible for getting to the marina meeting point in Philipsburg, and the price is set per group (up to 8), so solo travelers may feel the cost more than families or friends.

Key Things I’d Prioritize on This Charter

• Private up-to-8 setup so your day stays calm instead of crowded
• Captain Mike’s cruise talk with helpful pointers along the coastline
• Open bar all day including rum punch, mimosas, beers, and sodas
• Snorkeling stops planned for sea life at Long Bay, Tintamarre Island, and Little Bay
• BBQ lunch and homemade sides (with gluten-free options) after your first swim

Luxury Sailing in St Maarten: What You’re Really Paying For

This is a private full-day catamaran day, not a “show up and hope for the best” boat tour. The value comes from how the time is managed: you get a smooth flow of cruising, swim breaks, and food without long waits or awkward logistics.

You also get the kind of service that matters on a day like this. Elmira runs the comfort side, and people consistently comment on how taken care of they felt—drinks appearing, meals handled, and not having to ask twice. That’s the difference between a boat outing and a true charter.

Then there’s the water time. You’re not just stopping for quick peeks; the plan is to snorkel, swim, and paddle during the day, with sea life chances that make the effort worth it.

The 7-Hour Game Plan: Coffee, Coast, Snorkel Stops, and Lunch

The day follows a clear order, so you always know what’s next. It starts with a safety briefing (life jackets, bathroom location, and basic boat instructions). It’s the kind of step that helps everyone relax once you’re underway.

Then breakfast-style treats arrive early—coffee and croissants—paired with the open bar setup for the rest of the day. From there, you cruise along the coastline while Captain Mike shares stories and practical tips, so you’re not just watching from the deck.

After the cruise segment, you reach your first swim and snorkeling area. There’s a quick snorkel-equipment walkthrough, then the boat shifts into “enjoy” mode: swim, snorkel, paddle board, or hang out on the beach areas while the crew works on lunch prep.

Lunch lands at the right moment, once people are ready for a meal. After that, you move to another snorkeling stop with more drinks and snacks, then finish the day back on the water toward Little Bay.

Finally, you return to the same meeting point where you started. The schedule is built for a full-day reset—without the stress of switching tours or juggling multiple stops on land.

Long Bay and the First Big Swim: Turtles and a Real Underwater Hour

Long Bay is where the day starts getting personal. You’ll get a short briefing about what to expect in the water and sea life, including turtles. That matters because snorkeling is more fun when you’re not guessing what you’re looking at.

Once the snorkel gear is ready, you can choose your pace. If you want to snorkel, you’ll have time to do it without feeling rushed. If you’d rather keep it light, you can swim at a calmer rhythm or relax on the beach area.

This is also the first moment when the charter style becomes obvious. The boat isn’t stuck waiting on a big crowd or fighting for elbow room. You’re moving as a small unit, with the crew in charge of timing—so you spend more minutes actually in the water.

Tintamarre Island (and the Second Snorkel Stop): Another Chance to See More

Your charter is designed to include Tintamarre Island as part of the sailing route. Depending on wind and conditions, the exact timing and stop shape can change, but the intention is clear: you get a second underwater session after lunch.

This is a good time to refresh your plan. If the morning snorkeling clicks for you, you’ll likely feel more confident the second time around. If you want to spend more time floating, that also works, because you’re not locked into a rigid, “one-time-only” schedule.

After lunch, the vibe stays easy. You’ll get more snacks and drinks as you head out, and Captain Mike keeps the storytelling going with more insight into St Maarten as the coastline slides past.

Little Bay’s Underwater Show: Submarine, Shipwreck, Helicopter

When you arrive at Little Bay, the snorkeling gets more “wow” and less “just looking.” This stop is known for underwater features like a submarine, shipwrecks, and even a helicopter, plus sea life you can hope to spot while you swim.

Even if you’re not a super-experienced snorkeler, this kind of setting gives you clear landmarks to aim for. Instead of wandering in search mode, you can focus on the underwater structures as you float.

One small reality check: snorkeling visibility can shift with the day’s conditions. The good news is the charter format helps you adapt. If the water isn’t perfect for every style of snorkeling, you still have the option to enjoy the beach areas and stay part of the fun while the crew handles lunch and timing.

Food and Open Bar: BBQ Lunch, Snacks, and Drinks Without Limits

Let’s talk about what really makes this charter feel like luxury: the food and the drinks are included, and they’re not treated like an afterthought.

The day starts with coffee and croissants, then the open bar is available all day. The drink list includes things like rum, vodka, beers, sodas, juices, and mixed drinks. There’s also mention of mimosas and rum punch during the cruise.

For lunch, you’re looking at a charcoal BBQ menu paired with sides and bread. The plan includes marinated chicken breast and also vegetarian beyond burgers. The sides include mixed salad, gluten-free pasta salad, and a homemade garlic dip, plus French bread.

This is where Elmira’s hosting style shows up. Reviews highlight how meals feel homemade and cared for, and how the crew makes sure you’re not waiting around. On a boat day, that attention is a big deal.

If you want a true “vacation mode” day, this is one of those rare outings where you can eat and drink without constantly tracking what’s included or paying for add-ons.

Sailing Comfort and the Crew Dynamic You’ll Actually Feel

This is a small, private operation, and you feel that difference quickly. First, the meeting point is off a main road and easy to find, so you’re not stressed at the start. Second, you’re with the same team all day, so service stays consistent from safety briefing to final cruise back.

Elmira is repeatedly mentioned for hands-on hospitality—making sure people don’t have to ask for things. Captain Mike is also part of the appeal, with a friendly, informative approach that helps you understand what you’re seeing and where you are.

There’s also a practical side: when something technical happens with the boat, the crew has a record of making changes quickly to keep the day going. That doesn’t mean it’s never smooth—any marine operation depends on conditions—but it does suggest you’re not left stranded.

Price and Value: What $1,700 Means for Your Group

The cost is $1,700 per group for up to 8 people, for about 7 hours on the water. If you split it between a full group, the price drops to a level where you’re basically paying for a private day at sea with food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

If you’re traveling with only 1 or 2 people, it’s harder to justify financially. In that case, this charter is less about saving money and more about buying comfort: private space, a full meal plan, and a crew that runs the day for you.

What makes it feel like good value is the package weight. You get open bar, lunch, snacks, snorkeling equipment, and a planned route that includes multiple water stops. You’re not paying “per activity” or piecing together separate shore tours.

Also note that service charge/gratuity is not included, so you should plan on that cost if you want to thank the crew in a way that feels right for you.

What to Bring (and How to Avoid Small Boat-Day Headaches)

A few practical items can make your day smoother.

Bring towels. Also use non-spray suntan lotion—this matters because spray sunscreen can be messy around gear and people on a boat.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s smart to plan for it in advance since you’re spending hours on water. And if you plan to snorkel, give yourself a few minutes in the first stop to practice breathing and floating so you feel comfortable for the second one.

Also remember: private transportation isn’t included. You’ll want to be ready to get yourself to AzianaBobby’s Marina in Philipsburg (Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, #22), and you’ll finish back at the same meeting point.

Who This Charter Fits Best

This charter is ideal if you want a private day that feels relaxed but still filled with water time. It works well for couples who want a quieter experience, and it also fits families because the day is structured around manageable swim sessions plus plenty of on-deck downtime.

If your group includes mixed preferences—some people who want to snorkel hard, others who just want to sit on the water and relax—that’s also the sweet spot. The day lets you choose your pace at each stop.

If you hate crowds and you don’t want to babysit logistics, this style of charter is a strong match. Your crew handles the flow, and you get to enjoy the island without constantly changing plans.

Should You Book This Private Catamaran Day in St Maarten?

Book it if your priority is a private, all-inclusive day on the water with real food, real drinks, and multiple swim stops. The combination of Captain Mike’s guidance, Elmira’s hosting, open bar, and lunch after snorkeling makes the day feel intentionally planned rather than improvised.

Skip it (or at least reconsider) if you’re trying to do the cheapest thing possible or you’re traveling with only one or two people who won’t fill the group rate. In that case, you’d likely feel the price more than you’d enjoy the private setup.

If you do book, come ready for a full day: bring towels, use non-spray sunscreen, and treat it like a floating lounge with planned snorkel windows.

FAQ

How long is the private sailing catamaran charter?

It’s about 7 hours long.

Is this charter private, and what group size is it for?

Yes. It’s private, and it’s priced for up to 8 people per group (only your group participates).

What’s included with the food and drinks?

Coffee and croissants are served, and there is an open bar all day. Lunch and snacks are included, along with items like beers, sodas, mimosas, rum punch, rum, vodka, water, juices, and mixed drinks.

Do I get snorkeling equipment on this tour?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What should I bring with me?

You’ll need to bring towels. You should also use non-spray suntan lotion.

Will the snorkeling destinations always be the same?

Not always. Destinations may vary due to weather, but the day is set up around the island stops described in the itinerary.

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