A private day on a catamaran feels like you switched off the island noise. You cruise the coast of St Maarten in a small, group-sized setup, then hop in for snorkel time at standout spots like Long Bay and Little Bay. I love the way the day is built around comfort, not logistics.

What really shines is the host-led pampering. You’re fed from the start (coffee and croissants), kept supplied with snacks, and treated to a full lunch, all while the crew manages the boat and the little details that make a day like this feel effortless.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a weather-dependent day at sea. If conditions shift, stops can change, and you’ll need to stay flexible.

Key points to know before you sail

• Private charter for up to 8: it’s small by design, so the day feels calm and personal.
• Open bar all day: mimosas, rum punch, beer, and mixed drinks come with the cruise vibe.
• Snorkeling gear included: you don’t have to pack or shop for equipment.
• Lunch is a real meal: charcoal BBQ-style favorites plus vegetarian options and a gluten-free pasta salad.
• Little Bay has built-in spectacle: shipwreck and submarine features with plenty of sea life.
• Destinations may shift: wind and sea state can affect where you go.

First impressions: private luxury that stays relaxed

This charter is the kind of St Maarten experience that saves you from the usual “tour-day scramble.” You meet up, get briefed, and then the catamaran takes over. The pace stays easy on purpose—cruise, snorkel, eat, repeat.

I also like that the vibe is not pretend-luxury. It’s luxury in the practical sense: drinks on hand, food planned, and the crew focused on keeping your day smooth. You spend less time figuring things out and more time looking at the water.

If you’re traveling as a couple, this can feel like a custom yacht day without the huge-price yacht day ceiling. For families or small groups, it’s also a strong fit because activities are optional: you can snorkel, paddleboard, swim, or just park on a beach when you want a break.

Meet the team and nail the basics before you leave the dock

The day starts with a safety briefing. You’ll get instructions about life jackets, bathroom location, and general boat rules. This matters because it makes the rest of the day feel calmer. When everyone knows the routine, you don’t spend snorkel time thinking about what to do next.

You’ll also get coffee and croissants early, and then the open bar rolls through the day. It’s a steady flow rather than a one-time toast, so you can grab a drink when you want one and not feel like you missed the moment.

Names you may hear a lot during the day: Elmira and Captain Mike. Their style shows up in the small things—checking in, keeping water and drinks moving, and making sure you’re set before each activity.

Cruising along St Maarten: the captain’s “you’re here now” stories

Once you’re underway, the captain shares info about what you’re seeing. You’re out on open water, so those stories do two jobs: they make the coast feel less random and they give you something to listen to while you relax.

The cruise portion also sets up the day’s main rhythm. You’re not just rushing between stops. You have time to settle in, take photos, and enjoy the sail without it feeling like a checklist.

The first snorkeling stop at Long Bay (and why turtles are on the radar)

The itinerary typically heads toward Long Bay first. Before anyone jumps in, there’s a quick snorkel equipment briefing. If you’ve snorkeled before, it’ll feel like a refresher. If you’re newer, it’s still enough to help you get comfortable.

Once you’re set, you’ll have choices. Some people snorkel right away. Others prefer to paddleboard, and there are also options to relax on the beach while the crew handles the next steps.

Long Bay is also where sea life comes into the conversation, including turtles. You can’t guarantee sightings, but having a spot like this on the route is part of the value. St Maarten looks great from the water, but seeing the underwater side is what turns the day into a memory.

Charcoal BBQ lunch: the part that actually makes this feel worth it

A lot of boat days include snacks. This one includes lunch that tastes like someone planned it on purpose.

While you’re in the water, the crew prepares a charcoal BBQ-style meal. The menu includes marinated chicken breast, mixed salad, a gluten-free pasta salad, homemade garlic dip, and French bread. There are also vegetarian options with beyond burgers.

Then, once everyone’s back aboard, lunch gets served. That timing is smart. You’re not eating before you snorkel. You’re fueled after, when you’re ready for a proper break.

If you’re thinking about value: this is where the math often clicks. You’re paying for a private day with an open bar, but you’re also getting a full meal and more. That reduces the usual “we’ll just grab lunch somewhere” weakness that can sink the budget on an island day.

Second snorkel and snack rounds: melon, drinks, and more time in the water

After lunch, the day keeps moving toward another snorkeling stop. There’s usually another equipment quick check, then you’re back in the water.

Along the way, fresh melon shows up, and snacks and drinks keep circulating. Think mimosas and rum punch alongside beers and sodas, plus water and other mixed options.

The captain’s stories keep the cruise feeling alive without turning it into a lecture. It’s the right kind of background chatter—enough to add meaning to what you’re seeing, not enough to bully your relax time.

Little Bay: shipwreck, submarine, and helicopter scenery

Little Bay is one of the most interesting stops on this charter. The water scene here has built-in wow factors: you can expect details tied to a submarine, a shipwreck, and even a helicopter, along with sea life.

Even if you’re not the strongest swimmer, this is one of those places where you can choose your comfort level. You can snorkel, swim, or simply spend time soaking up the setting from the boat or nearby beach areas.

This is also where a private setup pays off. In busier group tours, people sprint between anchors. Here, you can take your time to get positioned, try a few passes in the water, and still return for the next meal round without feeling rushed.

What happens if weather changes the route

This is sailing, so the weather matters. The day is set up with flexibility, and destinations can vary due to conditions.

In practice, this means you may spend more time along certain stretches of coast if wind or sea state doesn’t line up with the original plan. The goal stays the same: keep the day fun, keep you fed, and keep you on the water safely.

If you’re booking in high season or around weather swings, treat this as a day at sea first and a fixed sightseeing itinerary second. When you go with that mindset, surprises tend to feel like part of the charm instead of a letdown.

Price and value: $1,700 for up to 8 people

At $1,700 per group (up to 8), this can pencil out as solid value if your group is actually eight people—or if you’re splitting the cost among friends or family.

Quick reality check:

• For 8 people, you’re basically around $212.50 per person for roughly 7 hours.
• That includes an open bar, lunch, snacks, and snorkeling equipment.

Boat charters often get expensive fast once you add drinks, food, and gear rentals. Here, those are part of the package, which is why this can feel more “vacation mode” than “activity pricing.”

The trade-off: it’s private, so you’re paying for comfort and control. If you’re only two people, you may feel the cost more than a larger group would—but the upside is still real: you get a tailored day and time to breathe.

Practical tips before you go: towels, sunscreen, and the marina

You’ll meet at AzianaBobby’s Marina, #22 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and the day ends back at the same meeting point.

A few practical things to plan for:

• Bring towels.
• Use non spray suntan lotion.
• You’ll want swimwear and a way to keep electronics protected.
• Private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to get yourself to the marina.

Also note: service animals are allowed, and the activity is disability-friendly. If you have specific mobility needs, it’s worth checking details with the operator ahead of time.

Who this charter suits best (and who might want a different day)

This is a great fit for:

• Couples who want a relaxed, premium day without crowds.
• Families with kids who are excited about snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just hanging out on the water.
• Small groups that want one bill, one plan, and minimal effort.

It might be less ideal if:

• You need a rigid, stop-by-stop schedule no matter the wind.
• You hate being out on open water for an extended stretch.
• You prefer a day packed with onshore shopping and walking.

The good news is you get options during the stops. You’re not forced into one activity all day.

Should you book this private catamaran day in St Maarten?

I’d book it if your goal is a calm, comfort-first day on the water with real food and an open bar, plus snorkeling at places like Long Bay and Little Bay. It’s the kind of experience where the value is in what’s included—drinks, lunch, snacks, and gear—so the day feels complete instead of cobbled together.

I’d pause and think if your schedule is tight or you know you get cranky when plans shift due to weather. But if you can roll with sailing conditions and you’re ready for a hands-off luxury day, this is a strong pick.

FAQ

How long is the private catamaran charter?

The charter runs about 7 hours.

What is the group size limit?

It’s priced per group for up to 8 people.

Where do we meet, and where does the tour end?

You start at AzianaBobby’s Marina, #22 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, and you return to the same meeting point.

What’s included for food and drinks?

Coffee and croissants are served, and there is an open bar with alcoholic beverages. Lunch and snacks are included, along with items like beers, sodas, mimosas, rum punch, rum, vodka, water, and juices.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is served on board after the first swimming/snorkeling period.

Do you provide snorkeling equipment?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included for use during the stops.

What should I bring with me?

Bring towels, and use non spray suntan lotion.

Are snorkeling and beach activities both available?

Yes. You can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or relax on the beach depending on what you want to do.

Can destinations change due to weather?

Yes. Destinations may vary due to weather.

If you want, tell me your group size and whether you’re more into snorkeling or beach time. I can help you judge if this is the right kind of day for your trip.