The Best Catamaran Day Sail in St Maarten

The best part of this St. Maarten sailing is the mix of easygoing time on the water and active fun. You can stretch out in the shade, watch the island coast slip by, then jump in for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or a ride on the boat’s famous Tarzan swing. The route visits both the Dutch and French sides, with stops at Mullet Bay and Little Bay.

I especially like the grilled lunch served aboard and the small-group feel, with a maximum of 30 people. Anna, Jackie, and Captain Scott are repeatedly praised for attentive service, while the open bar includes unlimited drinks. The main point to consider is that the exact order of stops can change with sea conditions, and the meeting point is sent by email rather than relying on the location printed on your ticket.

Key points to know

• Two Caribbean swimming stops: Visit Mullet Bay and Little Bay, with snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking available.
• The Tarzan swing: Swing from the catamaran into the sea at the second stop, an easy activity for a wide range of ages.
• A real lunch, not just a sandwich: Expect grilled chicken skewers, Caribbean rice, salad, and baguette.
• Unlimited drinks included: The open bar serves rum punch, beer, soft drinks, and other beverages throughout the sail.
• A relaxed group size: The catamaran carries no more than 30 people, and several outings have had much smaller groups.
• Convenient for cruise visitors: The boat is within walking distance of the cruise port, with parking and public transportation nearby.

Setting Sail From Simpson Bay

This is a five-hour catamaran outing from Simpson Bay, beginning at 10:00 in the morning and returning to the same general meeting point. You board a family-friendly yacht with cushioned seating in both sun and shade, then settle in as the boat moves along the St. Maarten coast.

The trip is designed to feel social without turning into a crowded party boat. The group limit is 30, and some departures have had only a dozen people aboard. That difference matters. With fewer people, you have a better chance of getting help with snorkel gear, finding a comfortable seat, and using the water toys without a long wait.

The crew is one of the strongest parts of the outing. Anna and Jackie handle much of the hosting, while Captain Scott runs the boat. The crew is known for checking on drinks, helping with the water equipment, and keeping an eye on safety without making the day feel rigid.

You may also meet Queenie, the boat’s four-legged first mate. She has become part of the personality of many sailings, though the formal tour details do not guarantee that she will be aboard every departure.

Sailing Along Both Sides of St. Maarten

The route takes you past beaches on both the Dutch and French sides of the island. You stay in the Caribbean Sea rather than heading into the Atlantic, and the boat does not usually travel far offshore.

That near-coast route is useful if you are concerned about motion sickness. Several people have found the ride comfortable, including those who normally worry about seasickness. Conditions can still vary, of course, and this remains a boat trip, but staying close to shore can make the day easier for sensitive passengers.

You will have time to watch the coastline, listen to Caribbean music, and enjoy the open bar between activities. The sailing itself is not a nonstop race from one attraction to another. Much of the appeal lies in the pauses: a drink in hand, a view across the bay, and a chance to talk with the crew or the people sharing your boat.

If you are hoping for a long, fast sailing session with the sails working the whole time, set your expectations carefully. This is better understood as a relaxed day on the water with some sailing, swimming, lunch, and water activities.

Mullet Bay: Snorkeling, Swimming, and Lunch

One of the main stops is Mullet Bay, a popular beach area on the island’s southwestern side. Depending on the day and sea conditions, it may be your first stop or your second.

At the first water stop, you can use the provided snorkel equipment and life jacket, try the stand-up paddleboard, kayak, swim, or float with a noodle. You can also swim toward the beach if conditions allow. The mix gives you room to choose your own pace. You do not need to be a strong swimmer to enjoy the shaded seating, floating equipment, or a short swim close to the boat.

Snorkeling conditions can change with weather and water clarity, so do not book this as a dedicated reef expedition. It is a flexible recreational stop, with several ways to enjoy the sea even if snorkeling is not your main interest.

Lunch is prepared on the catamaran. The usual meal includes marinated chicken skewers grilled by the captain, green salad, Caribbean rice, and baguette. This is a welcome step above the basic boxed lunch or sandwich often served on half-day boat trips. Rum punch and other drinks are available with the meal.

Food is served during the first stop, so you can eat while the boat is anchored and the water activities continue around you. If you have dietary needs, the supplied details do not list specific alternatives, so contact the operator before booking rather than assuming a substitute will be available.

Little Bay and the Famous Tarzan Swing

Little Bay may be the first stop or the second. The crew decides the order based on the conditions that day, so do not expect a fixed sequence.

The star attraction is the Tarzan swing, a trapeze-style rope swing mounted on the sailboat. You hold on, swing out over the water, and let go when you are ready. It gives the second stop a playful, slightly silly quality that works well for families, couples, and groups of friends.

The activity is described as suitable for ages 2 through 89, though every participant should judge their own comfort and physical ability. You need enough confidence to climb into position, hold the swing, and enter the water. Life jackets are available, and the crew helps position the equipment.

You can also swim, use noodles, or simply watch other people take their turns. That makes this stop more flexible than a single-activity excursion. If you would rather not swing, you can still enjoy the bay and the boat’s other water gear.

One practical tip: bring a towel and wear a swimsuit beneath your clothes. You will want dry clothing for the ride back, but there is no reason to spend the day changing between every activity.

What the Open Bar and Meal Add to the Price

The listed cost is $139 per person. That is not the cheapest way to get on the water in St. Maarten, but the price includes much more than transportation between two bays.

Your fare covers lunch, snacks, unlimited drinks from the open bar, snorkel equipment, life jackets, a stand-up paddleboard, and the Tarzan swing. The drink service includes top-shelf options, with rum punch, beer, soft drinks, and other beverages available throughout the trip.

That package changes the value calculation. You do not need to pay extra each time you want a drink, rent snorkel equipment, or use a paddleboard. You are also getting a cooked meal rather than a light snack. For someone who plans to spend the whole day aboard and use several activities, the $139 price is reasonable.

The value is weaker if you do not drink, dislike swimming, or want a quiet sightseeing cruise with little activity. You can still enjoy the views and lunch, but some of the inclusions will not matter much to you.

The crew’s service also affects the value. Anna and Jackie are often described as attentive without being pushy, checking on everyone and keeping drinks moving. If you prefer to handle your own day without frequent service, that level of attention may feel more active than necessary. For most people, it is a useful part of the package.

A Comfortable Fit for Families and Mixed Groups

This outing works best when people in your party want different things. One person can snorkel while another floats with a noodle. Kids can try the swing, adults can sit in the shade, and everyone can come together for lunch.

The family-friendly setup is helped by the range of included gear. You do not need to arrange separate rentals for a mask, snorkel, paddleboard, or life jacket. The crew can help you get set up, which is especially useful if you are unfamiliar with the equipment.

Couples and adult groups can enjoy it too. The boat has a relaxed social atmosphere, Caribbean music, food, and drinks, but the day is not described as a loud party cruise. The small maximum group size keeps it more personal than a large excursion boat.

Most people can participate, service animals are allowed, and the boat is near public transportation. The available information does not provide detailed guidance about wheelchair access, steps, or transfers, so ask the operator directly if you need specific mobility assistance.

Practical Details Before You Book

The tour starts at 10:00 a.m. and lasts about five hours. It ends back at the meeting point, making it convenient for a day in port or for anyone staying near Simpson Bay.

Cruise passengers can walk to the departure area from the ship, according to the tour details. Parking is also available, and public transportation is nearby. Do not rely on the meeting location printed on your ticket, however. The operator sends the actual meeting point by email during the week before departure, and you should check your junk folder if you do not see it.

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a way to protect your phone if you plan to take pictures around the water. You should also bring money for a tip if you feel the crew has taken good care of you. Some people purchase bracelets benefiting stray dogs on the island, though that is optional and separate from the tour price.

Alcohol is included, but the minimum drinking age is 18. Since the day includes unlimited drinks, pace yourself, especially in the sun. Water activities are more enjoyable when you stay comfortably hydrated and alert.

The tour requires good weather and a minimum number of participants. If poor weather forces a cancellation, you receive the choice of another date or a full refund. If the minimum number is not reached, the operator offers another date or experience, or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that 24-hour window are not accepted.

Who Should Book This Catamaran Sail?

I would choose this trip if you want one organized day that combines sightseeing, food, swimming, and friendly service. It is especially suitable for families, couples, cruise passengers, and groups with mixed energy levels.

You should also consider it if you normally avoid long offshore boat trips. The route stays in the Caribbean Sea and does not usually go far from the island, which may make the ride more comfortable.

I would look elsewhere if you want a quiet private charter, a serious sailing lesson, or a focused snorkeling expedition. This is a social day with a set group, shared equipment, an open bar, and several activities folded into one outing.

Should You Book Random Wind Charters?

For $139, this is a strong choice if you plan to use the boat as a full-day base rather than just a ride between beaches. The grilled lunch, unlimited drinks, water equipment, and Tarzan swing give you plenty to do, while the crew adds the personal touch that can make or break a shared excursion.

Book it if you like relaxed sailing, swimming, and a little harmless showmanship. Skip it if you prefer complete privacy or do not want an activity-filled day. For most people looking for a friendly St. Maarten outing with good food and simple water fun, Random Wind Charters offers a well-rounded five hours.

FAQ

How long is the St. Maarten catamaran tour?

The tour lasts approximately five hours and begins at 10:00 a.m. It returns to the meeting point at the end of the outing.

How much does the catamaran sail cost?

The listed price is $139 per person.

What food is included?

Lunch usually includes marinated chicken skewers grilled aboard, green salad, Caribbean rice, and baguette. Snacks are also included.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Unlimited drinks are included through the open bar. The package includes top-shelf options, and rum punch is available.

Which beaches or bays does the boat visit?

The boat visits Mullet Bay and Little Bay. The order may change depending on sea conditions, and the trip cruises along both the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkel equipment and life jackets are included. Stand-up paddleboards, the Tarzan swing, and other water equipment are also available.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If the tour is canceled because of poor weather, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. A full refund is also available when you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.