Deep-sea fishing off St Maarten is one of the few activities that turns a vacation day into a real mission, and this private charter is built for it. I love the fact that you get a whole deck to yourself with undivided attention, and you’re not just stuck with a generic “try your luck” plan. I also like the two-stage approach: trolling for fast surface fighters, then casting deeper when the fish move off the top.

One thing to consider: this is a full offshore day, so you’ll want to be comfortable being out on the water for roughly 9.5 hours, and the trip depends on weather.

Key takeaways before you commit

• Private charter up to 2 people means more time with the crew and less waiting.
• Surface trolling first, then going below 600 feet (182 meters) gives you a wider shot at big game.
• Professional catamaran setup with a private head and comfortable seating for long runs.
• Crew effort matters here: Capt JT and Mate Ricky worked hard to put fish on the line, including a long run out beyond St Maarten.
• You can keep fish within limits, and they’ll prepare your catch for you to take back.

Sailing out with a crew that’s actually fishing (not just sightseeing)

This charter is a full-day, go-far trip: you head offshore up to about 30 miles in search of big game. The schedule is built around time on the water rather than short stops, so when you’re finally fishing, you’re already in the zone.

The boat itself is a professionally outfitted catamaran described as dry and stable, with a wide back deck, comfortable seating, and a private head. Translation: you’re not spending the day cramped or miserable, which matters when you’re out there for hours and not just minutes.

And because this is private for your group (up to 2 people), you don’t have to share rods, spread out across a crowded deck, or compete with other anglers for a turn. That turns fishing from a group activity into something more personal.

The boat comfort: dry deck, private head, and space to work

When you’re paying for a serious day on the water, boat comfort is not a luxury. It’s what lets you fish effectively for longer.

Here’s what you can expect based on the setup: a wide open back deck for moving around as you cast and retrieve, comfortable seating for the long runs, and a private head so you’re not stuck waiting on a shared bathroom situation. Safety gear is part of the package too, since the boat is SOLAS compliant with the right equipment for emergencies.

If you get seasick easily, a catamaran can help, but it won’t guarantee anything. Still, “dry and stable” is exactly what you want to hear before a deep-sea day.

The fishing plan: troll the top, then chase fish deeper than 600 feet

This is the part that makes the day feel more “strategy” than “luck.”

First, you troll the surface targeting species like wahoo, mahi-mahi, and kingfish. Those are the kind of fish that can show up when the conditions are right, and trolling helps you cover water efficiently while the day is warming up.

Then comes the deeper fishing: you cast nets more than 600 feet (182 meters) below the surface. That shift is important. Predators don’t always hang out at the top, and depth changes what you can encounter. It also means the day is structured around two different fishing modes, so you’re not locked into one technique the whole time.

You’ll have well maintained rods, reels, and tackle provided. If you prefer your own setup, you can bring your own gear, but you won’t be forced to.

What I like about the crew approach: Capt JT and Mate Ricky stayed focused

The crew is friendly and local, but the more practical point is how hard they work during the hunt. In one standout day experience, Capt JT and Mate Ricky shared the workload to chase wahoo, traveling nearly 100 nautical miles round trip, and even going out by St Kitts and Nevis.

That tells you something useful: the crew isn’t just following a checklist. They’ll put in the miles to find fish, and that’s one of the biggest drivers of a great result. Deep sea fishing often boils down to location and timing, so effort matters.

Also, you’ll be fishing responsibly. The trip prefers catch and release, though they don’t mind if you take a fish or two within reasonable limits. If you land fish to keep, the crew will even prepare your catch for you so you can take it back.

Tailoring your private itinerary: freedom without chaos

Because it’s private, the day can flex to conditions and what the fish are telling you. You’re not stuck with a rigid schedule where you do the same thing no matter what the water looks like.

That kind of flexibility is useful for two reasons. First, weather and sea state can change fast offshore, especially in the Caribbean. Second, fish behavior can shift during the day, and a guide who can adapt often saves you from “spending hours doing the wrong thing.”

Just keep your expectations realistic. Flexibility doesn’t mean magic. It means the crew can keep working with what they’re seeing instead of refusing to change tactics.

What about “catch of the day”? Here’s how to think about success

Deep-sea fishing is exciting because it can be unpredictable. But this charter improves your odds in a few ways.

You’re covering water by trolling for surface species and then targeting deeper fish when appropriate. You also have pro gear and fuel handled for you, which keeps the day smooth and keeps your attention on fishing rather than logistics.

That said, the trip is still subject to ocean behavior. A big reason this tour gets strong feedback is not that it promises a trophy fish every time, but that the crew focuses on putting you on fish and keeps pushing when conditions require it.

One more practical thought: if you’re hoping to eat your catch later, confirm your comfort level with taking fish under the trip’s “reasonable limits” approach. Catch-and-release is preferred, so you may want to be ready for either outcome.

Food and drinks: unlimited beer, but also bring your water bottle

On a 9.5-hour day, fuel for you matters as much as bait for the fish.

Included: unlimited local beers and other drinks on request if beer isn’t your thing, plus snacks and soda/pop and water. There’s also a sustainability-minded note: they encourage you to bring your own water bottle, and they don’t use single plastic bottles.

Lunch isn’t included. You can either bring your own food or request French baguette sandwiches for $10 per person, but you need to call ahead with 24 hours’ notice.

My practical advice: pack an easy lunch if you can, even if sandwiches are an option. Out there, you might eat on your schedule, and it helps keep the day comfortable while you wait between fishing passes.

Gear, bait, and tackle: what’s handled for you (and what you might add)

You don’t have to bring a fishing shopping list for this trip. Included items cover the core of the operation:

• Bait
• Rods/reels/tackle
• Fuel

That’s a big part of the value. Many fishing days get expensive because you end up renting gear, buying bait, and sorting out where to get everything. Here, that’s already built into the charter.

Still, bringing your own gear can be worthwhile if you’re picky about rods, reels, or line. If you do, make sure it’s comfortable for long holds and fast pulls, because deep fishing and surface trolling both demand quick, steady handling.

Price and value: what $1,445 buys you when it’s private

The price is $1,445 per group (up to 2 people). On the surface, that’s not cheap, especially if you compare it to shared group fishing.

But the value comes from what you’re paying to avoid:

• You’re paying for privacy, meaning less downtime and more direct help.
• You’re paying for a professionally outfitted catamaran and the offshore fuel costs.
• You’re paying for included rods/reels/tackle, bait, and a crew that’s actively working to put you on fish.

For two people, this can be a strong value if you’re serious about fishing and want a long, focused day. If you’re a casual angler who wants to “maybe catch something,” you might be better served by a cheaper option. But if fishing is the point of your trip, the private charter format can make the whole experience more satisfying.

One more angle: the day includes alcohol and snacks, plus soda/water, so you’re not adding a bunch of extras at sea. That doesn’t make it budget-friendly, but it does reduce surprise costs.

Where this fits best: who will love it and who should pause

This is best for people who:

• Want a full offshore fishing day rather than a short half-day outing
• Care about having a crew dedicated to your group
• Prefer a plan with both surface trolling and deeper fishing
• Are comfortable with a long time on a boat and moderate physical fitness

It may not be ideal if:

• You want a mostly relaxing, low-effort trip
• You’re prone to motion sickness and don’t handle offshore rides well
• You’re hoping for a quick meal-and-photos experience instead of real fishing work

Also, this is planned around good weather. If the sea isn’t cooperating, the trip can be changed or refunded—so it helps to have flexible plans.

Booking timing: when you should reserve

The experience is typically booked about 53 days in advance on average. For the best chance at the day you want, I’d plan ahead rather than waiting until the last minute, especially if you’re traveling during busier weeks.

That advance timing matters more for private charters. When you’re buying “your time on the water,” availability becomes the limiting factor fast.

Should you book this deep sea charter?

If you want a serious fishing day with a private setup, this charter is easy to recommend. You’re getting a long run offshore, a smart two-stage approach (surface trolling plus deeper fishing), and a boat setup designed for comfort over hours—not just for show.

I’d especially consider booking if you value crew effort and a realistic shot at species like wahoo and mahi-mahi. The standout element here is that the crew shows commitment to the hunt, not just movement on the water.

Hold off only if your plans are tight, you’re uncomfortable with offshore time, or you’d rather spend less and accept a more casual experience. For the right kind of traveler, this is exactly the sort of day you’ll talk about long after you’ve cleaned up the gear.

FAQ

What time does the fishing trip start?

The tour starts at 8:00 am.

How long is the full-day deep sea fishing adventure?

It runs for about 9 hours 30 minutes.

Is this a private charter or a shared group trip?

It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates (up to 2 people).

What fishing gear and supplies are included?

The trip includes bait, rods/reels/tackle, and fuel.

Are drinks and snacks included?

Yes. You get unlimited local beers and snacks, plus soda/pop and water. You’re encouraged to bring your own water bottle since they don’t use single plastic bottles.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included. You can bring your own food, or French baguette sandwiches are available for $10 per person with 24 hours’ notice.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.