Private Speed Boat Charter Around St Maarten: Snorkel Creole Rock & Secret Beaches
Take a private speed boat from Philipsburg to Creole Rock and hidden coves around St Maarten. Personalize your day—snorkel with turtles, watch low-flying planes at Maho Beach, or find quiet shallow beaches for lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use reef-safe SPF to protect coral and avoid white lotions that sting after saltwater; reapply after swimming.
Secure a dry bag
Keep phones, documents and a light layer in a waterproof bag—spray and waves are constant companions.
Watch the weather and winds
Trade winds can make open crossings choppy—choose morning departures for calmer seas when possible.
Respect marine life
Don’t touch or chase turtles and avoid stepping on coral; keep distance and let animals choose interaction.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Baie Longue’s shaded shallow sands behind La Samanna (good for calm swimming)
- •Small uninhabited islets near the nature reserve that often have iguanas and quiet beach restaurants
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Colorful reef fish (parrotfish, sergeant majors)
Conservation Note
The marine reserve around Creole Rock is protected to preserve coral and fish habitat—avoid anchoring on reefs, use mooring buoys where provided, and minimize plastic use onboard.
St Maarten’s coastline and lagoon have long supported fishing and inter-island trade; the island’s split Dutch-French governance shaped dual culinary and place-name traditions along the shore.
What to Bring
Swimsuit and quick-dry layersEssential
Comfortable swimwear and a light cover-up for sun and spray make transitions easy.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and fragile coral ecosystems during long sun exposure.
Water shoes or reef booties
Protect feet on rocky beaches and while entering shallow snorkel sites.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps valuables, phone and a light jacket dry during transit and brief swims.
Common Questions
Are snorkeling masks and gear provided?
Yes—most private charters include use of snorkeling equipment; confirm sizes when booking.
Can we customize the itinerary?
Yes—these charters are private and captains tailor stops to conditions and your interests within the booked timeframe.
Is the tour safe for children?
Children are welcome but must be supervised; life jackets are typically provided—check age and safety requirements with the operator.
What about seasickness and cancellations?
Bring motion-sickness meds if you’re prone; full refunds are usually available with 24-hour cancellation notice and trips may be canceled in bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3.5–7 hours
Location
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate level of fitness for getting on/off the boat, snorkeling and brief swims; not suitable for those with serious spine or heart issues.
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