Cruise ships belonging to Royal Caribbean Cruises have the pleasure of docking at the stunning Port Philipsburg in St. Maarten. Located on the island's southern coast, this picturesque town serves as the main port and capital of Sint Maarten, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. With it’s charming ambiance, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful beaches, Port Philipsburg is the perfect destination for cruise-goers seeking a memorable and luxurious experience. The port authority, managed by the Harbour Group of Companies, ensures that guests have a seamless and enjoyable visit, providing top-notch facilities and services.
Can You Walk to a Beach From the Cruise Port in St Maarten?
St. Maarten, known for it’s pristine beaches and vibrant culture, is a popular destination for cruise ship travelers. Many tourists eagerly anticipate stepping off their ship and heading straight to a nearby beach for some relaxation and fun in the sun. In St. Maarten, this dream can easily become a reality as there are several beaches within walking distance of the cruise port.
The convenience of having such a stunning beach within walking distance of the cruise port can’t be overstated. Travelers can easily spend a few hours basking in the sun, taking refreshing dips in the azure waters, or simply strolling along the shoreline, all without having to worry about arranging transportation or wasting precious time.
Great Bay Beach isn’t just a picturesque oasis, but also presents a variety of amenities that cater to the needs of visitors. There are numerous beach bars and restaurants lining the shore, ensuring that hungry or thirsty beachgoers can easily find respite and indulge in delicious local cuisine or tropical cocktails. Sun loungers and umbrellas are also available for rent, ensuring ultimate comfort while enjoying the beach.
While these beaches may require a short taxi or bus ride, they’re still relatively close to the cruise port and offer stunning views, powdery sand, and opportunities for snorkeling or swimming.
The Top Snorkeling Spots Near the Cruise Port in St. Maarten
- Maho Beach
- Great Bay
- Little Bay
- Tintamarre Island
- Pinel Island
- Creole Rock
- Happy Bay
- Mullet Bay
- Simpson Bay
- Anse Marcel
Watch this video on YouTube:
Now that you know you can easily get around the beautiful island of St. Maarten in under an hour, it’s time to delve into the wonderful array of activities and attractions this Caribbean gem has to offer. From pristine beaches and exciting water sports to vibrant markets and historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this tropical paradise. Let’s discover some of the best things to do on St. Maarten!
How Long Does It Take to Get Around St. Maarten?
St. Maarten, a beautiful island in the Caribbean, offers travelers a wonderful mix of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting activities. One of the great advantages of exploring this island is it’s compact size, making it easy to navigate and get around. With a well-maintained road system, you can drive from one end of the island to the other in as little as 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
One of the main points of interest for tourists is the capital of Philipsburg, where most Royal Caribbean cruise ships dock. In just a short drive from the cruise terminal, you can immerse yourself in the charming streets of Philipsburg, lined with duty-free shops, delightful cafes, and historical landmarks. The annual Carnival celebration is a popular event that shouldn’t be missed if you visit during the festive season.
If youre looking to explore beyond Philipsburg and experience the islands natural beauty, a drive to the neighboring French side, known as Saint-Martin, is highly recommended. Here, you can indulge in French cuisine, visit stunning beaches like Baie Rouge, and take in breathtaking views from the scenic Pic Paradis. The drive from Philipsburg to Marigot, the capital of the French side, takes around 25-30 minutes, allowing you to easily explore both sides of this unique island in a single day.
For adventure enthusiasts, a trip to the famous Maho Beach is a must. Situated close to the Princess Juliana International Airport, this beach offers an exhilarating experience as planes fly low overhead during takeoff and landing. Maho Beach is just a short drive from Philipsburg and can be reached in approximately 15-20 minutes, making it a convenient and exciting stop during your visit to St. Maarten.
If youre longing for a more tranquil beach experience, a drive to Orient Bay is highly recommended. Known for it’s pristine waters and soft sand, this beach is perfect for relaxation and water sports. The drive from Philipsburg to Orient Bay takes around 20-25 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the amenities this beach has to offer.
Tips for Navigating the Road System in St. Maarten
When navigating the road system in St. Maarten, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, remember that in St. Maarten, cars drive on the right side of the road. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations before getting behind the wheel.
Additionally, road signs and markings may differ from what you’re used to, so pay close attention. Some of the roads in St. Maarten can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive cautiously, especially when encountering pedestrians or cyclists.
Another tip is to be aware of the varying speed limits throughout the island. Speed limits are typically indicated in kilometers per hour (km/h), and they can vary depending on the road conditions and location. Keep an eye out for speed limit signs to ensure you’re driving within the legal limits.
Parking can be limited in busy areas, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with designated parking lots or areas. In some cases, you may need to pay for parking using local currency or a parking meter.
Lastly, keep in mind that St. Maarten is a popular tourist destination, especially for cruise ship visitors. This means that roads near the cruise ship dock may experience heavier traffic at certain times, so plan your routes accordingly to avoid delays.
Source: Getting Around St Maarten
From the St. Maarten cruise port, there are several options to reach Maho Beach. One of the most convenient and efficient ways is to take a taxi. The journey is too long to walk, and taxis typically charge around $15-20 per person, depending on the number of passengers. As you disembark from the cruise ship, head towards the right where you’ll find a line of taxis ready to transport you to the beautiful Maho Beach.
How Do I Get From St. Maarten Cruise Port to the Beach?
The St. Maarten cruise port is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers looking to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island. One of the most famous beaches on the island is Maho Beach, known for it’s close proximity to the Princess Juliana International Airport.
The average cost per person is around $15-20, depending on the number of passengers in the car. This can be a great option if you’re traveling with a group or family, as the cost can be divided among the passengers.
Along the way, you can catch glimpses of the crystal clear turquoise waters, lush greenery, and charming Caribbean architecture.
Upon arrival at Maho Beach, you’ll be greeted by a stunning stretch of white sand and the iconic sight of airplanes flying just overhead. The proximity to the airport has made Maho Beach a popular spot for plane enthusiasts, as you can witness planes taking off and landing just a few meters above you. It’s a truly unique experience that you won’t want to miss.
To get from the cruise port to Orient Bay in St. Maarten, there are several transportation options available. One option is to take a taxi or rent a car, as it’s a quick drive to the beach. Another option is to take the bus, which is a convenient and affordable way to travel. If you prefer a guided tour, there are beach excursions available that will take you to Orient Bay, as well as other places of interest. However, if you’re looking for the cheapest option, public transport by minivan is the way to go.
How to Get to Orient Beach From St. Maarten Cruise Port?
If youre visiting the beautiful island of St. Maarten on a cruise and want to make your way to Orient Beach, there are a few options available to you from the cruise port. Orient Bay is a popular destination known for it’s stunning beach and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit spot for many travelers.
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to Orient Beach is by taking a taxi or renting a car. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and will take you directly to Orient Bay in a short drive. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and provides easy access to Orient Bay.
Lastly, for those who prefer a more local experience, you can opt for public transport by minivan. This is the cheapest option and will give you a chance to interact with the locals. Look for the minivans near the cruise port and simply ask the driver if they’re heading to Orient Bay.
Enjoy the journey and make the most of your time on this beautiful island.
Exploring Orient Bay: Once You’ve Arrived at Orient Beach, There Are Several Activities and Attractions to Enjoy. This Article Could Discuss Options Such as Water Sports, Beachfront Restaurants, and Beach Clubs.
- Water sports: Orient Beach offers a variety of water sports activities for visitors to enjoy. Choose from options like snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing.
- Beachfront restaurants: Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood, local Caribbean dishes, and refreshing drinks while taking in the stunning ocean views.
- Beach clubs: Experience the vibrant beach club scene at Orient Bay. Dance to lively music, sip on tropical cocktails, and soak up the sun on comfortable lounge chairs.
Conclusion
Managed by the Harbour Group of Companies, it provides a convenient and scenic docking location for cruise ships. Whether exploring the town's charming streets or venturing further to discover the island's natural wonders, visitors to St. Maarten can look forward to a truly memorable cruise vacation.