Saint Martin is an island in the Caribbean that is split between the French collectivity of Saint-Martin and the Dutch territory of Sint Maarten. Beauty abounds on the island, with bluffs overlooking pretty harbors, sandy-cliffed beaches and tranquil rocky coves where fish provide the beauty.
The cruise terminal is approximately a 1.6-km walk to the east end of Front Street leading into the main shopping area. However, a short walk from the cruise ship docks you’ll find:
- A fleet of taxis (and cars/guides) for hire as noted under “Get around” below.
- A water taxi service: continuously running boats in a circular route to Philipsburg in either order, to a dock near the east end of Front Street and another opposite the courthouse on Front Street center, before returning to the cruise ship area.
- Both stops offer ready access to a large beach and Front Street shopping. Several boats run while multiple cruise ships are there.
- You can buy single-trip wristbands at modest cost, or wrist-bands for unlimited travel all day for slightly more.
- You’ll see long lines when many cruise ships are docked, but the number of water taxis employed rises to meet demand, so you’ll rarely have a long wait.
Local curreny is Euro
Things to do in St Martin
If you are limited for time and only visiting St Martin for a day we have highlighted the top sights to see. Before booking a cruise line excursion to your preferred highlight check out what tours are offered in St Martin by Viator and Get your Guide – you could find a tour which better matches your preferences and could make a significant saving.
Our top attractions in St Martin
Simpson Bay Lagoon. The largest inland lagoon in the Caribbean
Fort Louis. A French fort built in the 18th century overlooking Marigot
Go plane spotting at Maho Beach
Take an Island & Beach tour
Please Note – when booking a private excursion that is not operated by the cruise line it is your responsibility to ensure that you are back in port in good time for the ‘All Aboard’ time. We suggest allowing at least 1 hour after your ships arrival in port to allow for immigration clearances and plan to be back in port at least 1 hour before ‘All Aboard’ time to allow for any traffic issues etc on your return journey.