If you want Anguilla without the long hassle, this fast boat day is a smart pick. You’ll start in Simpson Bay, cruise past St Maarten sights toward the French side, then hop through several beaches on Anguilla’s calmer southern coast. I especially like the small-group feel (max 20) and the built-in comfort perks: snorkeling gear, a proper onboard lunch, and an open bar. The main thing to consider is that this is a speedboat excursion, so on rougher days you may get wet and the ride can feel more intense than a ferry.

You’ll also be working around the reality of island days: weather matters, and stops can shift. One date may follow the usual order, but another might swap in a backup bay if conditions change. Bring your passport, expect to complete a snorkeling health questionnaire, and plan for an extra $25 admission fee that isn’t included.

Key things to know before you go

• Small-group day (max 20): easier flow on and off the boat and more personal attention.
• Snorkeling gear + lunch included: you’re paying for a full boat day, not just transport.
• Open bar included: drinks are part of the experience, especially during beach time.
• Weather can change stops: Shoal Bay (and sometimes routes) depends on conditions.
• Budget for the $25 admission: not included, so factor it into your total cost.
• Passport required: check this before you leave your hotel.

Entering Anguilla by powerboat from Simpson Bay

This is a day built around a simple idea: see more beaches in fewer hours, without waiting for ferries or dealing with complicated transfers. You meet at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten for a 9:00am departure, then you’re on a small powerboat headed toward Anguilla. The day is paced like a beach circuit—cruise, swim, snorkel, eat, repeat—so you get the “wow” moments quickly instead of slowly.

What I like most is that the boat day is structured. You’re not left guessing when the snorkeling happens or when you’ll eat. Lunch is onboard at the planned time, and the crew keeps the day moving.

Also, the guides often give commentary as you cruise. You’ll get the kind of island context that helps the shoreline make sense—where you are, why these coves matter, and what to pay attention to as you hop from beach to beach. On some days, you may get extra attention from the crew members with a knack for safety and hands-on help. In particular, names that show up often include Captain Sammy with Noah, and pairs like Junior and Lucas, plus other captains such as Nicolas and Miguel.

Price and logistics: what $139 really buys

At $139 per person, you’re buying a full day on the water with several included items. The tour covers:

• Unlimited drinks via an open bar
• Snorkeling equipment
• Lunch onboard (fresh sandwiches, fruit, chips, and dessert)

That’s real value if your goal is to avoid extra shopping and “where do we eat?” decisions. You’re also not paying for private transport; you meet at the marina and the day is run as a single organized operation.

One budget point, though: there’s an extra $25 admission fee per person that is not included. So your all-in total should be closer to $164 per person once you account for that. Still, the inclusions (lunch + snorkeling gear + open bar) help offset the add-on.

A second logistics point: this isn’t for cruise ship visitors. If you’re arriving by ship, you’ll likely need a different option. Also, there’s a minimum of 8 passengers and a maximum of 20. If the minimum isn’t met, you could be offered an alternative or a full refund.

Your timing: the 9am departure to sunset finish

The day runs about 7 hours (approx.). You start at 9:00am and end back at the same meeting point. Return is described as happening around sunset, so you get that late-day light that makes the water look extra good.

This timeline matters because it shapes your packing list. You’ll be out long enough to feel it in the sun, especially if you’re snorkeling or bouncing between water and sand. Plan for a full beach day, not a quick dip.

Also, this is an open-water powerboat ride, so bring realistic expectations. One downside that comes up: if conditions are rough, the boat can feel bouncier than a calm ferry, and you may end up wet. If you get seasick easily or you’re sensitive to motion, it’s wise to think ahead before booking a speedboat day.

Stop-by-stop Anguilla: Sandy Island to Meads Bay

The heart of the experience is the beach circuit. The usual stop order is described as:

Sandy Island → Little Bay → Shoal Bay (weather dependent) → Meads Bay, with Rendezvous Bay as an alternative.

Each stop gives you a slightly different kind of “beach day,” and the time blocks are short enough that you stay fresh.

Sandy Island (about 45 minutes)

Sandy Island is typically your early stop, and that’s helpful because it lets you get into water mode quickly. The time here is designed for relaxing on the sand and doing a first round of swimming or snorkeling with the provided gear.

Why this works: you’re not just arriving to Anguilla—you’re starting your day with the postcard version of it. The quick timing also means you’re less likely to feel “tired on a boat with nothing to do.” That first beach break is momentum.

Possible drawback: if seas are rough, getting water time right at the first stop can feel more challenging. One review note flagged that water can be rough not only on the boat but also around the beaches depending on conditions. So keep your balance in mind when stepping in and out.

Little Bay (about 45 minutes)

Next is Little Bay. This stop is another classic “hang on the waterline” moment—sun, sand, and a chance to use the snorkeling equipment.

The value here is that you get a second distinct coastline view before the day turns into a longer stretch of beach time. You’re building a mental map of Anguilla fast, which makes the final bays feel even better.

Practical note: bring a waterproof bag or case. Even when the plan is calm, a powerboat day can mean spray. Several people mention getting wet and recommend protecting essentials.

Shoal Bay (about 1 hour, depends on weather)

Shoal Bay is where lunch time happens. That means you get the longest single stop and a full meal break. The lunch is described as freshly made sandwiches with fruit and chips, plus dessert onboard.

Why Shoal Bay matters: it gives you a more relaxed chunk of the schedule. After cruising and multiple beach jumps, this is the “okay, sit down and reset” part of the day.

Drawback: Shoal Bay can change or be skipped depending on weather. Even on a fantastic day, you might find that the crew adjusts stops when conditions aren’t ideal. If rough water is part of your day, don’t expect every stop to be perfectly timed or perfectly close to shore.

Meads Bay (about 45 minutes in Anguilla Marine Park)

Meads Bay is the big-name stop for many people, and it’s listed as part of the Anguilla Marine Park area. You’ll get beach time here, plus a chance to enjoy the water.

This stop is the one I’d aim for if your idea of Anguilla is calm, protected swimming and that clean-feeling beach water that makes snorkeling worth the effort. Even with shorter time, Meads Bay often feels like the “final boss” of the day because it wraps up the best of the coastline before you head back.

One caution: snorkeling is optional in the sense that you can choose not to, but you must complete a snorkeling health questionnaire first. Some pre-existing conditions (like asthma or heart conditions) may prevent you from snorkeling, so it’s smart to check with your doctor ahead of time if you’re unsure.

Rendezvous Bay (about 45 minutes, alternate option)

If one of the other beach stops doesn’t work due to conditions, the plan includes a backup: Rendezvous Bay. It’s a safety-and-comfort tool. The crew can keep you on schedule and still get you real beach time.

Even if this isn’t the stop you dreamed about, it can still be a good outcome because the goal is consistent fun without the day falling apart.

Onboard lunch and the open bar: good value if you pace yourself

The food is part of what makes this tour feel like more than a sightseeing boat. Lunch happens onboard with freshly made sandwiches, fruit, chips, and dessert. The open bar keeps drinks flowing, and people specifically mention rum punch being plentiful.

I recommend you treat the open bar like seasoning, not like a mission. Enjoy it, yes. But this is still a sun-heavy day with beach time and water time. If you’re out snorkeling or swimming, you’ll feel better if you keep a steady rhythm with water and shade.

Also, the onboard setup matters. Multiple people highlight that the boat is clean and that the crew runs the day smoothly. One person even noted that the crew took extra care to help older guests on and off the boat—something you’ll appreciate if you don’t love stepping up into a small vessel.

Snorkeling reality check: great option, not always a perfect scene

Snorkeling is included with equipment. The stop choices are set up to use protected areas when conditions allow, and several people say the snorkeling was stunning when they could do it.

At the same time, one downside shows up: snorkel conditions can mean fewer fish than you expected, or less guidance than you’d like about the exact locations. Also, getting in and out may not be the easiest for everyone. There’s mention of a small step and that some entry/exit can be tricky if you’re not comfortable in water.

So here’s my practical advice:

• If you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll likely enjoy it more.
• If you’re not, consider how you feel about stepping and balance.
• If you have any medical issues that could affect snorkeling, complete the health questionnaire honestly and ask questions early.

And yes, the water can be rough. That affects both the boat ride and the beach water. If you want guaranteed calm conditions, you’ll need to accept that the tour is weather-dependent.

Who should book this Anguilla powerboat day

This tour is a good fit if you want:

• Beach hopping in one day without doing a bunch of separate bookings
• A guided boat day with lunch and snorkeling gear included
• A group size that stays friendly (max 20)

It’s especially appealing if you like the idea of meeting early, getting out on the water while the day is fresh, and coming back later with the trip energy still high.

Who should think twice:

• People who are easily bothered by rough water or boat motion.
• Anyone who wants a long, slow, ferry-style experience.
• If you’re not comfortable swimming and entering water with a little step, you may find this harder than a calmer shore access plan.

What to pack and how to prep (so the day feels easy)

Based on the practical tips that pop up repeatedly, I’d pack like this:

• Sun protection (sunscreen)
• A towel (not just one)
• A waterproof solution for phone and documents
• A plastic bag for wet items
• A light morning meal or breakfast before you go

One more tip: if you’re bringing anything delicate, treat the boat as a spray zone. Even when conditions are fine, powerboats can send water your way.

Finally, keep your documents ready. Passports are required, and you’ll also need to complete the snorkeling health questionnaire before any snorkeling.

Should you book the Anguilla Getaway Cruise?

I’d book it if you want a full Anguilla beach day with snorkeling gear, lunch, and an open bar bundled into one smooth operation. The strongest part is the way the day is structured around multiple stops, with crew support and a small-group feel that keeps things from turning chaotic.

I’d think carefully before booking if you’re not comfortable with speedboat conditions or you’re expecting a perfectly calm, easy-to-access swim at every stop. On rough days, the crew adjusts—and that can mean fewer stops or less ideal snorkel conditions. It’s still a fun day, but it isn’t a slow cruise.

If you like to start early, spend time in the water, and get maximum beach time per hour, this trip fits your style. If you prefer gentler transport and guaranteed calm waters, you might want a different Anguilla plan.

FAQ

Do I need a passport for this Anguilla cruise day?

Yes. Travelers are required to have passports for this tour.

What time and where do we meet for the trip?

You meet at 62 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten. The tour starts at 9:00am and you return to the same meeting point.

How long is the Anguilla Getaway Cruise?

The duration is about 7 hours (approx.).

What’s included in the price, and what costs extra?

Included items are the open bar (unlimited drinks), a local guide, snorkeling equipment, and lunch onboard (fresh sandwiches, fruit, chips, and dessert). An admission fee of $25 per person is not included.

Is snorkeling always part of the day?

Snorkeling equipment is provided, and you’ll complete a snorkeling health questionnaire beforehand. Some medical conditions (for example, asthma or heart conditions) may prevent you from snorkeling.

Is this tour available for cruise ship passengers?

No. It is not available for cruise ship visitors.