disney cruise line st. maarten excursions

St Maarten Excursions Afternoon Beach Bash Tour Activity Type: Splashtacular and Family Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 3.5-4 hours Adult Price: $41 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $22 (ages 3-9) Ages: All Ages Soak up the sun, sand and surf — and discover paradise — at Orient Bay. Take in the captivating coastal sights as you embark on a 30-minute, air-conditioned motor coach drive to one of the Caribbean's best beaches, Orient Bay. Once there, bask in the warm sun, swim in the shimmering ocean or explore the scenic shoreline for two unforgettable hours. Savor the flavor of a splash of rum or fruit punch in a cozy beach chair or, for an additional cost, immerse yourself in the largest selection of water sports on the island. After your visit, sit back, relax and surrender to the sweeping seaside views once again as you embark on a 30-minute motor coach drive back to the pier. Additional Information Umbrellas and water sports (e.g., parasailing, jet skis, banana boat, boogie boards), massage, tattoo and hair braiding are available but not included in the price. Complimentary beverages are included for the duration at the beach. Time at the beach is approximately 2-2.5 hours. Guests should note that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. Reviews Bubba Fishing Adventure Tour Activity Type: Action Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 4.5 hours Adult Price: $90 ( ages 10 and up) Child Price: $77 (ages 6-9) Ages: 6 And Up Board "Bubba," a custom-built fishing boat, for a 45-minute cruise along St. Maarten's breathtaking coastline. Receive rod, reel and instructions before taking part in an exciting catch-and-release bottom-fishing adventure. Bait your fish and release your catch under the friendly guidance of our onboard mates. Afterward, walk into town for some serious souvenir shopping. Additional Information This is a "catch and release" bottom-fishing excursion and is scheduled to last approximately two hours. Complimentary beverages are included for the duration at the beach. Guests who are prone to seasickness should take necessary precautions. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate. At the end of the excursion, Guests may choose to walk approximately 10 minutes to Philipsburg for shopping and sightseeing before taking the approximate 20-minute walk back to the ship. Guests may also return via taxi at their own expense. Reviews French Riviera Beach Rendezvous Activity Type: Splashtacular and Family Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 5 hours Adult Price: $59 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $40 (ages 3-9) Ages: All Ages Leave your footprints in the powder-white sand shores of Orient Bay, known to all as the "French Riviera of the Caribbean." Lounge the lazy afternoon away in a comfy beach chair with a refreshing drink in hand — and feel your worries wash away as you gaze out onto the waves of the shimmering turquoise sea. Additional Information Please be aware that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries, where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. A welcome drink and a drink with lunch (chicken, baby back ribs or fish of the day) are included in this excursion. Cash bars are available for Guests wishing to purchase additional beverages. VIP cards will be handed out for Guests wishing to receive a 1 Euro = 1 USD exchange rate. Travel time to/from the beach is approximately 20-30 minutes each way, in air-conditioned motor coaches. Time at the beach is approximately 3.5-4 hours. Double umbrellas and water sport equipment rentals are available at an additional cost. For Guests intending to partake in water sports, a credit card run off is usually taken as insurance against damage. A stroller or collapsible wheelchair can be stowed in the luggage area of the bus. Please note, however, that Guests must be able to negotiate 2-3 steps to board and disembark the bus. There are wooden walkways throughout the location; however, there are no sand strollers or wheelchairs available or walkways on the beach—just loose sand. The official currency on the French side of the island is the Euro; however, U.S. dollars are accepted. Guests should ensure they verify the price of souvenirs in U.S. dollars before purchasing. At the end of this excursion, Guests will have the option to be dropped off downtown for shopping (where travel expenses back to the ship are the Guests' responsibility) or return directly to the pier. Reviews Golden Eagle Catamaran Activity Type: Splashtacular and Family Adventures and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Moderate Moderate These excursions are fairly active and involve periods of walking over even and uneven surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone, steps and, in some cases, steep terrain. Standing for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Moderate water activities involve extended periods in a slight current, and may require climbing a ladder during beach or swimming stops. --> Duration: 4 hours Adult Price: $82 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $46 (ages 5-9) Ages: 5 And Up Sail the ocean blue aboard an exciting catamaran and soak up the sun-kissed sights as you make your way to the scenic splendor of the French side of St. Maarten. Upon anchoring approximately 50 feet offshore, dive in for a swim and snorkeling adventure or retreat to the beach for a relaxing hour and a half of sun and sand. Additional Information Please be aware that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries, where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. Snorkeling equipment and instruction are provided. Snorkeling is from the catamaran. Guests can swim to the beach which is located approximately 50 feet away. Reviews Island Drive and Explorer Cruise Activity Type: Family Adventures and Sightseeing Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 4 hours Adult Price: $47 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $24 (ages 0-9) Ages: All Ages Surrender to the sea, shore and more on a scenic bus ride to Simpson's Bay lagoon. Board the Explorer for a 30-minute Caribbean cruise to Marigot, the French Capital of the island. Once there, savor the mouth-watering French cuisine and shop for souvenirs before your return by boat and bus to Phillipsburg, the Dutch Capital. Additional Information This tour is available to All Ages; since it involves a boat/vessel, infants under 3 years of age must have a child's ticket. Guests are encouraged to dress in casual clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Food is available for purchase. Reviews Mountain Bike Adventure Activity Type: Action Adventures and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Active Active These excursions are considered active and may involve constant effort or extended periods of walking long distances, numerous steps, inclines, cobblestone surfaces and other rough terrain throughout the excursion. Participants should be in good physical condition to fully enjoy these excursions. --> Duration: 3.5 hours Adult Price: $78 (ages 12 and up) Child Price: N/A Ages: 12 And Up Take the road less traveled as you bike on- and off-road amidst scenic coastlines and winding nature trails. Enjoy a safety orientation in Marigot before blazing through to the charming village of Columbier and the secluded cove of Friar's Bay Beach. Once there, relax and rejuvenate with 30 minutes of swimming and sunbathing. Additional Information Please be aware that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries, where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. Guests are encouraged to wear swimming attire under clothing if wishing to swim at the beach. Guests should be in good physical condition to participate in this excursion. Reviews Mountain Top Downhill Rainforest Trek Activity Type: Action Adventures and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Active Active These excursions are considered active and may involve constant effort or extended periods of walking long distances, numerous steps, inclines, cobblestone surfaces and other rough terrain throughout the excursion. Participants should be in good physical condition to fully enjoy these excursions. --> Duration: 3.5-4 hours Adult Price: $65 Child Price: $58 Ages: 8 And Up A 30-minute fully narrated, air-conditioned bus ride takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the more heavily populated tourist areas to experience the tranquility of Loterie Farm, a private nature reserve and historical site. After hearing a brief overview of the uniqueness of this property and receiving your complimentary bottled water, climb aboard a 4x4 open-air safari truck for the ascent to 'Pic Paradis', St. Martin's highest point. Upon arrival at the top, you feel the climate change — cool, fresh and breezy at nearly 1500 feet above sea level — and be greeted by breathtaking, unobstructed 360° views of St Maarten. In fact, this vantage point is the only place on the island where you can see seven neighboring islands and take a photo of your cruise ship in the distance below! With your guide in the lead, you now begin the all-downhill trek into the depths of St. Martin's only rainforest. The hike takes approximately 2 hours on ancient trails under the canopy of 200-year-old trees where you witness first hand the remnants of the Caribbean's most unlikely sugar plantation abandoned in 1848. Along the way your knowledgeable guide will entertain you with folklore and history of this extraordinary estate and point out and describe an incredible array of flora and fauna. Keep your eyes open for a few of the local residents too — it's not uncommon to see green monkeys, iguanas, mongoose or other wildlife as you pass through this mysterious jungle-like environment. The trail then opens up at 'Chewbacca Rock', 900 feet above sea level, where you have another opportunity to take some fantastic photos of the views below. Descending further on well groomed, gently sloping trails, you are greeted with an ice-cold rum or fruit punch at the end of the hike. Additional Information Guests should wear comfortable clothing — t-shirts, shorts or long light pants and suitable footwear (sneakers or walking/hiking shoes). Wooden walking sticks are available for use. A bottle of water is provided. Guests should be used to regular physical activity/be in good physical condition. The hiking is all downhill, not too strenuous; however, Guests should be in good physical condition for trekking over irregular terrain, in some areas fairly steep. Hiking trail is approximately 1 ¼ miles. Guests should bring minimal personal belongings: a camera, hat, small knap sack or waist belt. There is no place to store bags so any personal items will have to be carried on the hike. Tour includes a fully narrated, air-conditioned bus ride to/from Loterie Farm. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes each way, depending on traffic. Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted. This tour is not suitable for Guests with any knee, hip or ankle limitations, heart & respiratory problems, wasp allergy or vertigo. Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early. Rhino Rider and Snorkeling Adventure Activity Type: Splashtacular and Action Adventures and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Active Active These excursions are considered active and may involve constant effort or extended periods of walking long distances, numerous steps, inclines, cobblestone surfaces and other rough terrain throughout the excursion. Participants should be in good physical condition to fully enjoy these excursions. --> Duration: 3.5 hours Adult Price: $89 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: N/A Ages: 10 And Up Cruise the ocean blue across Simpson Bay Lagoon in a two-person inflatable vessel. Gaze at picturesque Marigot and Fort St. Louis before immersing yourself in a 30-minute swim and snorkeling adventure. Relax afterwards at the beach and enjoy a complimentary beverage at one of the island's best-known watering holes. Additional Information Please be aware that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries, where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. Beverages provided are non-alcoholic. Maximum of two in a boat; Guests will be sharing the Rhino Rider with another Guest. Maximum weight capacity per 2-person inflatable vessel is 400 pounds. Guests should be in good physical condition to participate in this excursion. Guests must be 18 years of age to drive the Rhino Rider. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate. For safety reasons, expectant mothers, Guests with heart or respiratory conditions and those with back/neck injuries cannot participate. Reviews Rib Boat Adventure Activity Type: Splashtacular Activity Level: Moderate Moderate These excursions are fairly active and involve periods of walking over even and uneven surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone, steps and, in some cases, steep terrain. Standing for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Moderate water activities involve extended periods in a slight current, and may require climbing a ladder during beach or swimming stops. --> Duration: 4 hours Adult Price: $75 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $55 (ages 8-9) Ages: 8 And Up Experience an unforgettable adventure as you enjoy a high-speed, inflatable rib boat ride down the south coast of St. Maarten. Cruise Simpson Bay Lagoon, passing sailboats, yachts and the waterfront of the French capital, Marigot. Snorkel at Creole Rock, the island's premier spot for this activity, before visiting the picturesque village of Grand Case. There you can relax with a glass of French wine or selected beverages and take in the wonderful view of the island of Anguilla. Then head off to one of St. Maarten's beautiful beaches for an hour of fun in the sun before your exciting return ride to Philipsburg. Additional Information Soft drinks, water, wine, beers and rum punch are provided after snorkeling. Proof of age is required for alcoholic beverages. Snorkeling gear and snorkel vest are provided free of charge. Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted. Expectant mothers and Guests with heart or respiratory conditions or back/neck injuries may not participate. For safety reasons, Guest's weight must not exceed 275 pounds. Restrooms are not available on the vessel. Periodic stops for use of public restrooms are available. Guests are encouraged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, swimsuits and towels. Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early. The minimum age to participate in this tour is 8 years; the maximum age is 70 years. The route may be reversed based on conditions on the day of the tour. Seaworld Explorer Coral Reef Exploration Activity Type: Family Adventures and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 2.5 hours Adult Price: $45 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $29 (ages 0-9) Ages: All Ages Retreat to Grand Case on the French side of spectacular St. Maarten via a scenic bus ride. Once there, board the Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine for a one-of-kind glimpse into the wondrous world beneath the surface of the translucent blue sea. During the 45-minute trip, a diver will be on hand to "escort" a variety of aquatic life in front of the viewing chambers so you can be sure to see it all up close. Afterward, take in the Caribbean sights and savor the flavor of a splash of fruit or rum punch before your return back to the ship. Additional Information This tour is available to All Ages; since it involves a boat/vessel, infants under 3 years of age must have a child's ticket. Travel time from the pier to Grand Case, and back again, is approximately 30 minutes in each direction. Beverages are included. Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted. Reviews See and Sea Island Tour Activity Type: Family Adventures and Nature Adventures and Sightseeing Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 3.5 hours Adult Price: $55 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $36 (ages 0-9) Ages: All Ages Travel both surf and turf in spectacular St. Maarten on this excusion for the entire family! Get a glimpse of life under the sea in Grand Case as you enjoy an underwater view of the Caribbean aboard the Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine. Then head back to land for a 45-minute stop in the charming French town of Marigot for an afternoon of shopping, sightseeing and fun in the sun. Additional Information This tour is available to All Ages; since it involves a boat/vessel, infants under 3 years of age must have a child's ticket. Please be aware that St. Maarten's beaches are similar to those found in European countries, where swimwear and other attire are optional. Nudity or topless bathing may be observed. The semi-submarine journey is approximately 45 minutes. Reviews St. Maarten Island and Butterfly Farm Tour Activity Type: Family Adventures and Nature Adventures and Sightseeing Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 3.5 hours Adult Price: $38 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $28 (ages 3-9) Ages: All Ages On this air-conditioned, narrated bus tour, take in the beautiful sights of St. Maarten at two specially selected, picture-perfect tour stops. Observe a myriad of exotic butterfly species at the Butterfly Farm in the French Quarter and immerse yourself in a bit of shopping in the quaint village of Marigot while taking time to enjoy a snack and refreshment at one of the charming sidewalk cafes. Additional Information Guests are encouraged to dress in casual clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Snacks and beverages are available at an additional cost. Visiting time at the Butterfly Farm and Marigot is approximately 45 minutes each. Reviews The Ultimate Charter Choice Activity Type: Splashtacular and Signature Collection Activity Level: Moderate Moderate These excursions are fairly active and involve periods of walking over even and uneven surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone, steps and, in some cases, steep terrain. Standing for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Moderate water activities involve extended periods in a slight current, and may require climbing a ladder during beach or swimming stops. --> Duration: 4 - 4.5 hours (extra hours available for additional charge) Adult Price: $1,599 (vessel accommodates 10 passengers) Ages: All Ages Treat your family and friends to an unforgettable experience as you set sail on the 39-foot catamaran, "Too Rhum Punch," to explore the best of St. Maarten. Relax on your leisurely voyage as you chart your own course with the help of the captain, who can recommend the best areas for the conditions. Sail down the calm south coast to one of St. Maarten's beautiful beaches (Mullet Bay, La Samanna or Baie Rouge) or stop to snorkel at one of the nature park areas. Or visit the nature island, Tintamarre, on the north side of the island. The ultimate choice is yours! We also offer charter service in Cozumel. If you're already booked on a Disney Cruise Line® Caribbean cruise, and would like to learn more about this exciting excursion and reserve a private yacht in Cozumel, please: Download the special Signature Collection Request Form and fill it out on your computer. Save the form to your desktop. Attach the form to an email and send it to: [email protected] After your Signature Collection Request Form is received, Disney's Special Services department will contact you to confirm your private request by telephone. Please allow up to 7 days for confirmation. Additional Info When Guests reserve this excursion, they are booking the vessel exclusively for their travel party. No other Guests will be onboard. Unlimited beverages (beer, soft drinks, club soda, rum punch, fruit punch) are provided. A sandwich snack (French-style baguette with turkey, ham, cheese, tomato and lettuce) is also included. Upgrades, such as additional hours or a full lunch, must be requested in advance. Please allow 15 minutes for boarding. Guests who are pregnant or who have prior heart ailments or severe asthma should not undertake this tour. For safety reasons, Guest's weight must not exceed 330 pounds. A rib dinghy is provided for those who wish to go ashore at designated locations. Wheelchairs (collapsible or electric) are not permitted. Guests are accompanied on this excursion by a Captain and a sailor. Snorkel, mask, flippers and snorkel vest are provided. Guests are encouraged to bring cash, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, additional clothing, a hat, a camera, a backpack and towels. Due to limited availability, Guests are encouraged to book early. Reviews Tiki Hut Snorkel Activity Type: Splashtacular and Nature Adventures Activity Level: Moderate Moderate These excursions are fairly active and involve periods of walking over even and uneven surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone, steps and, in some cases, steep terrain. Standing for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Moderate water activities involve extended periods in a slight current, and may require climbing a ladder during beach or swimming stops. --> Duration: Varies Adult Price: $67 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $47 (ages 5-9) Ages: 5 And Up Sit back and relax as you journey by tender boat to the private floating island oasis of Tiki Hut. Once onboard, enjoy a day of fun in the sun you're sure to never forget. Snorkel in the calm waters of a sheltered cove, sway with the motion of a floating lounge, or bask in the splendor of the golden sun and warm breezes. Enjoy a two-hour visit or make it a half-day stay — whatever your pleasure, the day belongs to you. Additional Information Travel time from the pier to Tiki Hut is approximately 15 minutes. Hourly return tenders are available back to the ship or downtown. A complimentary water taxi pass is also available back to the ship. Food and beverages are not included but are available for cash purchase. Snorkeling equipment and instruction are provided. Reviews Twelve Metre Regatta Activity Type: Action Adventures Activity Level: Active Active These excursions are considered active and may involve constant effort or extended periods of walking long distances, numerous steps, inclines, cobblestone surfaces and other rough terrain throughout the excursion. Participants should be in good physical condition to fully enjoy these excursions. --> Duration: 3 hours Adult Price: $89 (ages 12 and up) Child Price: N/A Ages: 12 And Up Be a part of the most exciting water sport event in the Caribbean! Whether you're a beginner or an expert, put the wind in your sails and become a crew member on a vessel that's competed in America's Cup. Train to grind a winch, trim a sail and punch a stopwatch just like the experts; or just sit back, enjoy the spectacular view and feel the wind on your face. Additional Information No previous sailing experience necessary. At the completion of the excursion, Guests may walk into the downtown area or return back to the ship. Reviews Under Two Flags Island Tour Activity Type: Family Adventures and Sightseeing Adventures Activity Level: Mild Mild These excursions involve periods of walking for short distances over relatively level surfaces, which may include brick, cobblestone and limited steps. Standing or sitting for extended periods may also be necessary to fully enjoy these excursions. Boarding tour vehicles via gangway or steps will be required. Distance from gangway to tour vehicle will vary port by port. --> Duration: 3 hours Adult Price: $25 (ages 10 and up) Child Price: $17 (ages 3-9) Ages: All Ages Discover the two distinct worlds of St. Maarten via an air-conditioned bus as you explore both the French and Dutch sides of this unique island paradise in the sun. Shop duty-free at the local marketplace and delight in a delectable lunch at one of the many seaside cafes that pepper the scenic Caribbean waterfront. Additional Information Guests are encouraged to dress in casual clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Food is available for purchase. Reviews  

Visiting St. Maarten on Disney Cruise Line

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One of the frequent ports of call for Disney Cruise Line can be found at Phillipsburg, Saint Maarten. Saint Maarten is usually found on Eastern Caribbean itineraries as well as Southern Caribbean itineraries. The island is split into two territories, the first of which is owned by The Netherlands, where the ship docks, and the second part which is French.

The cruise ship terminal in Phillipsburg is large, busy and well maintained. There are frequently many ships docked there at once. For those who are interested in getting off the ship just to walk about for awhile, Saint Maarten has good facilities. There is a shopping area set up at the port with many of the same stores you will find throughout the Caribbean. In this same area, there are taxis and tour buses available to take you all over the island, whether you’ve booked a tour through the ship or not. If you have not pre-booked an excursion, there are many options for tours which you can secure after getting off of the ship. Car rentals are also available from Phillipsburg. However, keep in mind that traffic jams are common on Saint Maarten, especially when there are many ships in port.

Disney Magic docked in Phillipsburg

Shopping is a popular activity on the island, both on the Dutch and French sides of the island. The shipping areas in Phillipsburg tend to be newer, but there is no shortage of shopping in the French city of Marigot, which is full of charming shops and eateries. The currency on St. Maarten is the Euro, but most shops will accept the U.S. dollar (albeit at their own exchange rate). Some of the popular items to purchase on St. Maarten are jewelry, linens, liquor and tobacco.

Beautiful Marigot

With mild weather year round, St. Maarten is also a popular destination for beach-goers. Since the island is surrounded by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, there are many different beach options whether you’re looking for bigger waves, a quieter sea, a solitary spot or a busy beach scene.

The most popular beaches seem to be on the French side of the island, including the famous Orient Bay, which is full of vendors and restaurants. Another very popular spot is the tiny Maho Beach- located just outside the fence for St. Maarten’s airport, there are incredible views at Maho Beach of the planes taking off/landing at the airport- right over your head. Be warned, on St. Maarten, topless and even nude beach-goers can be found, though they are not the norm on all beaches.

For those looking to experience something a little more unusual, one of the fun tours offered on Saint Maarten is a jeep tour, which allows participants to drive all over the island in a convoy of jeeps. This tour gives you the opportunity to see much of inland Saint Maarten, as well as affording passengers some time to visit the beaches and towns along the way.

driving across the border

taken from our jeep tour

Alternatively, there are many boat tours available on the island, which offer snorkeling and private beach experiences. My family’s favorite tour of St. Martin was actually a speed boat tour which took us all around the island and gave us time at several beaches and snorkeling areas as well as lunch.

Starting up the speed boat

There is so much to see and do at St. Maarten that you really can’t go wrong. Just pick what appeals to you most and enjoy the island life!

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St. Maarten Excursions: Top Things to Do

✔ Stunning white-sand beaches

✔ Duty-free shopping

✔ Mouth-watering cuisine

✔ Award-winning rum

✔ Two countries on one island

The “Friendly Island” has it all and you can experience it firsthand when in port for a St. Maarten excursion. Known for its laidback Caribbean vibe and stylish European appeal, this primo travel destination holds the Guinness World Record for “smallest inhabited island shared between two nations.” With French-owned Saint Martin on the north end and Dutch-owned Sint Maarten on the south side, there is plenty to see and do on shore when you cruise to St. Maarten.

To help you properly plan before a Caribbean vacation at sea, here are the top St. Maarten excursions that make visitors fall in love with this half-Dutch, half-French paradise time and again.

St. Maarten Excursions for Adventurers

• 12 Metre Challenge — Race like a sailing pro aboard the 12 Metre Regatta, a one-of-a-kind offshore experience that lets you feel the thrill of an America’s Cup racecourse aboard a real America’s Cup yacht. No sailing experience required!
• Rainforest Adventures — Head to Rainforest Adventures for the ultimate adrenaline rush, where you’ll take the Sky Explorer chair lift to one of St. Maarten’s highest mountains. Whiz back down on the world’s steepest zip line (The Flying Dutchman), and surf the slopes on the first waterless tube ride in the Caribbean.
• Tri-Sport Bike Tours —Tri-Sport provides historical bike tours that guide visitors through the rich history of the island. Explore the capital town of Philipsburg, cross the island’s French/Dutch border, and peruse the Marigot Market.

St. Maarten Excursions for Beach Bums

• Maho Beach — The airplane flyovers at Maho Beach are one of the most famous attractions on all of St Martin. With the pristine beach located just past the Princess Juliana International Airport, visitors can soak up the island sun while feeling the roar of jet engines passing right over their heads. It’s an experience not to be missed and a prime location for that Insta-worthy post!
• Orient Bay — The shores of Orient Bay are lined with restaurants, water sports rental facilities, and bewitching island beach bars. Chase your troubles away while sipping on a rum-soaked cocktail or ice-cold Carib beer. Heads up, though: Orient Bay Beach is the most famous clothing-optional beach in the Caribbean.

St. Maarten Excursions for Aquaholics

• Sea Trek — Walk underwater by way of Sea Trek’s helmet diving tours, which allow anyone over the age of eight years old to go beneath the surface while breathing normally (and keeping their hair dry!). You don’t even need to know how to swim to enjoy this unique activity.
• Snorkeling Tour — Enjoy a scenic powerboat ride to off-the-beaten-path beaches and the best snorkeling spots in St. Maarten, including Creole Rock, Happy Bay, Pinel Island, and Tintamarre. Kick up your fins and feast your eyes on underwater wonderlands, teeming with unspoiled reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles.
• Catamaran Sail — Set sail aboard a private catamaran for a scenic passage to places only accessible by boat. Or, wait until the evening and embark on a champagne sunset catamaran cruise.
• Aqua Mania Adventures — This local water sports company supports an array of activities that allow visitors to truly make a splash! Choose from jet ski tours, scuba diving, and half-day excursions to neighboring islands. You can even snorkel through Little Bay’s Underwater Sculpture Park, a breathtaking eco-attraction with a trail of over 300 artificial reef sculptures.

St. Maarten Excursions for Foodies

• Grande Case — Come see why the bustling harbor of Grande Case is nicknamed the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.” Bring your appetite and tempt your taste buds with the island’s local flavors and authentic French, Caribbean, and Creole dishes.
• Emilio’s — Located within the historical heritage site of Rockland Estate, Emilio’s is the island’s newest and finest dining establishment. The award-winning restaurant takes its tag line, “Dine with History,” seriously, which is obvious from the moment you arrive. The four-course tasting menu features French-Caribbean fusion dishes made from local ingredients and an extensive wine list to create the ultimate culinary experience.
• Topper’s Rhum Tasting — Discover how handcrafted rums are fermented, distilled, and filtered while touring the 6,000-square-foot distillery. Then, embrace your inner Jack Sparrow with unlimited samplings of six signature rums and St. Maarten’s world-famous rum cake. You can even learn how to cook with rum at Topper’s award-winning restaurant.

St. Maarten Excursions for Shopaholics

• Philipsburg — Stroll the streets of Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten, to enjoy some duty-free shopping. Be sure to pay a visit to the Guavaberry Emporium for colorful photo ops and to purchase some locally produced rum for your thirsty friends back home.
• Barts — Step aboard a high-speed ferry for some fine dining and upscale retail therapy along the lavish streets of St. Barts, which has become a popular vacation destination among celebrities and A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyoncé, Michael Jordan, Jerry Seinfeld, Paris Hilton, Paul McCartney, and Mariah Carey.

St. Maarten Excursions for Nature Lovers

• Horseback Riding — Novice and expert riders alike can enjoy trotting along St. Maarten’s nature trails that lead to hidden coves and magnificent waterfalls.
• Parotte Ville Bird Sanctuary — Home to over 180 vibrant bird species from all around the world, Parotte Ville encourages sanctuary visitors to feed the feathered friends and take pictures with them.
• Nature Reserve — An idyllic retreat for flora and fauna enthusiasts, St. Maarten’s Nature Reserve boasts a diverse ecosystem that includes mangroves and wetlands. Set off on a guided tour or, for a more hands-on experience, join the protective efforts by participating in activities such as counting birds, planting mangroves, and regulating invasive species.

There is so much to see and do when you cruise to St. Maarten and something to satisfy everyone in your party. Whether you choose to spend your days unwinding under the Caribbean sun, searching for new adventures, soaking up the local culture, or enjoying your own perfect mix of all three, incredible St. Maarten memories are just waiting to be made by you and your crew.

To capture your own unforgettable memories on a cruise to St. Maarten, visit Cruises.com — we can help you book the smart way! We give you our exclusive bonus offers and all qualifying cruise line offers , plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits . Book online at Cruises.com for the largest selection of cruise line deals or call 800-288-6006 today.

Related:  Best Caribbean Beaches to Visit on a Caribbean Cruise

Author: Kaitlyn Nakagoshi

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Additional Port Adventures for Upcoming Cruises to St Maarten

Disney Cruise Line recently added add a number of new port adventures for guests to choose when sailing to St Maarten  aboard the Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy in the coming months. Earlier this month, Disney announced that St Maarten would take Tortola’s place on the Disney Fantasy’s Eastern Caribbean sailings through March 2018 as Tortola continues to recover from hurricane damage.

Below are brief summaries of each of the new port adventure with links for more information on each.

• Afternoon Beach Bash (SM63) Spend the afternoon relaxing, swimming or wave running on St. Maarten.
• Beach Rendezvous (SM62) Fun in the sun awaits as you at this relaxing resort in the Caribbean.
• Caribbean Beach Day (SM56) Soak up the sun or splash in the sea on this beautiful St. Maarten beach.
• Discover Scuba (SM60) Learn from a PADI dive instructor off the coast of St. Maarten.
• Distillery Tour, Rum Tasting and Beach Adventure (SM59) Learn about rum-making in the Caribbean before soaking up some sun or splashing in the waters off the coast of St. Maarten.
• Rum & Reggae Cruise (SM61) Cruise the Caribbean on a custom-designed catamaran.
• Two Nations Vacation (SM57) Dine on French and Dutch cuisine as you sail the seas in this Caribbean adventure.
• Two Tank SCUBA diving (SM58) Take the plunge into adventure with this scuba diving excursion in the Caribbean.

To see the full list, visit our St Maarten page   and click on the Port Adventures tab.

2018 Itineraries Featuring St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles

Disney Fantasy

• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral • At Sea • At Sea • St. Maarten • St. Thomas (St. John) • At Sea • Castaway Cay

Disney Wonder

• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Disney Wonder Port Canaveral • At Sea • At Sea • St. Maarten • San Juan • At Sea • Castaway Cay
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Disney Cruise Mom Blog

I am a mom who loves all things Disney, but especially Disney Cruises! I enjoy sharing everything I have learned and hope that it will help others plan their own vacations.

What We Did in St. Maarten

June 5, 2015 by Disney Cruise Mom 8 Comments

ETA 3/15/18:  Unfortunately, it appears that Top Secret Private Excursions is no longer in business as their website is no longer working and they haven’t had a review on TripAdvisor since March 2017.

While we were on our 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Disney Magic in October 2014 we stopped in the port of St. Maarten.  We decided to spend the day on a private boat charter with Top Secret Private Excursions.  They have excellent reviews on Trip Advisor and the owner, Myles, was very nice and helpful before the cruise via email.  I really liked the fact that he didn’t require a deposit and allowed us to pay in cash the day of the excursion.  This way, I didn’t have to worry about giving out my credit card number and what might happen in the event that the ship was not able to make it to port that day.

The scenery was beautiful when we pulled into the port that morning:

Once we got off the ship, we walked through the port area and straight to the water taxi as Myles had instructed.  Along the way we took the obligatory photo in front of the St. Maarten sign:

The water taxi was easy to find right in the port area and I think it cost $7 per person for the whole day.  They gave us a green wristband to wear.  During the ride, one of my girls was resting up for the busy day ahead:

We got off at the first stop which was at Bobby’s Marina and immediately saw the Top Secret boat.  It looked like Myles and his first mate Danny were still prepping things so because we were about 20 minutes early, we hung back and waited at a little seating area.  After about 5 minutes, Myles and Danny came over, introduced themselves and told us we could go ahead and get started!  The led us onto the boat and showed us around.  It was a really nice boat and down below had a living area, kitchen area, bedroom and bathroom.  It was air conditioned too.   There were also 3 or 4 areas up above where we could hang out.  Soon, we began sailing out of the harbor:

Here is the little boat being towed behind us.  We used this later for tubing:

As we were heading out of the harbor Myles asked us what we would like to do that day.  I told him we wanted to snorkel, go tubing, play on a beach, and see the huge airplane (which I think was an Airbus A340) land at Maho Beach, which only happens once a day.  So, we headed to our first stop which was snorkeling.  During the ride, Myles told us all about a big hurricane that had hit the island a few weeks prior and how he was still in the process of repairing his roof.  There was quite a bit of damage all over the island, some of which we would see later.  We soon arrived at the snorkeling spot and Myles got us all set up with our snorkel gear.  We happened to be right next to an area where people do snuba, so there were some neat things underwater for us to see.  Here is the sunken ship:

Here is Myles swimming down to pick up a sea urchin for the girls to hold:

FYI, you can read all about my favorite waterproof camera here .

More underwater stuff:

We saw a stingray swim under us!

After snorkeling, Myles suggested sailing over to the French side of the island for a little sightseeing.  The girls and I decided to ride up front:

There was a rain shower in the distance, but it never came our way:

We passed a lot of impressive beach front estates, and Myles told us that Donald Trump had recently bought this one:

My older two sat way at the front and enjoyed the scenery:

While my youngest did this:

I guess all that snorkeling wore her out!  It was so nice of Myles to toss her a couch pillow to use up front.  He was a really cool guy.  When we arrived at the French side of the island, we immediately noticed all of the damage from the hurricane.  There were so many boats pushed up on the beach.  I asked Myles how they were going to get them back into the water and he said he had no idea.  Apparently it had been a really long time since a storm this bad had hit the island and this type of damage had occurred:

After our nice sail to the French side Myles took us to a secluded little cove where we were going to go tubing with Danny while Myles cooked lunch.  Here is Myles dropping the anchor:

My youngest was still doing this:

So, we woke her up and the older two got into the tube:

The other 3 of us got into the jet boat with Danny and we were moving pretty fast!  We had to hang on tight:

This was our view of the boat while we were tubing:

Myles actually had a grill on the back of the boat and was grilling our lunch here.  If you look closely at the picture above you can see it.  Here is another view of the boat where you can see the grill on the very back:

Here are a few more tubing pictures:

When we finished tubing, we got back on board to enjoy lunch.  I wish I had taken better pictures of it, but this is the only one I got:

After lunch, we used the jet boat to get over to the little beach right beside us.  My youngest two and I spent some time playing in the waves and discovering things while my husband took our oldest snorkeling along the rock wall.  Myles told us that he had seen octopus on that wall before so they were hoping to find one (they didn’t).  Here they are preparing to go in:

Playing on the beach:

They found a shell but nothing was inside:

They also found a small cave but didn’t go in:

And right outside the cave they found this:

Don’t worry, we didn’t touch it or even get very close to it.  I zoomed in to take this photo.  It was HUGE!  I would estimate that the wing span was in the 8 – 12 inch range.  Here is another view of our boat from the beach:

And one of my favorite pictures from the entire vacation:

After we got back in the boat, it was time to head over to Maho Beach to watch the big Airbus A340 land.  For some reason I stopped taking pictures at this point, but I did get some great video of several planes landing.  They were all pretty small planes until we saw the Airbus approaching.  Here is the video:

It was amazing to be right under the plane like that.  My video camera was not zoomed in at all.  This was something that I had been looking forward to since we booked the cruise and I am so glad that Myles timed everything just right.

After the airplanes, it was time to head back to the harbor and get back to the ship.  Once we were back, we settled our bill and said our goodbyes.  It was a short walk back to the water taxi and then after that, a short walk back to the ship.  It was a fantastic day!

If you would like to read about some of our other shore excursions, you can do that here .

As always, don’t forget to like me on Facebook ( click here ) and follow me on Pinterest ( click here ) and Instagram ( click here ) for all of the latest Disney Cruise Mom Blog updates!

June 5, 2015 at 12:18 pm

That excursion sounds fabulous! Remind me to have you act as our trip planner if our family ever gets the opportunity to cruise again.

June 6, 2015 at 7:02 am

Sure thing! I love planning excursions!

April 17, 2016 at 10:24 pm

Wow- that beach is like something out of a movie! Love your girls’ coordinating swimsuits – SO adorable!

April 18, 2016 at 8:47 am

Thanks Katie!!!

November 28, 2016 at 11:40 pm

Great blog on excursions. About to take our first cruise next week on the Dream. St. Maarten and Maho Beach is something I’ve always wanted to see. Maybe that can be a future cruise for us.

Thought I’d also tell you the Air France plane is an Airbus A340, no a Boeing 747.

Looks like you all had a blast.

November 29, 2016 at 9:16 am

Glad you’re enjoying the blog! Thanks for the correction, I’ll get that updated. I think I just read a few weeks ago that the Airbus A340 will no longer be flying to St. Maarten. 🙁 Even without it, Maho Beach is still a sight to see and I hope you manage to get there one day!

March 14, 2018 at 11:28 pm

Is this company still available? Just found out we are sailing to st. Maarten in may off Disney fantasy and can’t seem to find this company’s website if info to book/pricing?

March 15, 2018 at 9:56 am

I just spent some time looking online and their web page no longer works and there hasn’t been a review on Trip Advisor since March 2017. So, it appears that they are no longer in business, which makes me sad because it was such an amazing day!!! I think I may have seen on Facebook a while ago that Myles moved back to Canada so maybe that has something to do with it, I don’t know. I’ll update the blog post shortly. I have heard good things about Souliga Destinations though….

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St. Maarten

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .

Welcome to StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com – Your Premier Destination for Unforgettable Adventures in St. Maarten and Beyond!

At StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com , we are dedicated to transforming your cruise stop in St. Maarten into an extraordinary experience filled with sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, St. Maarten is a dual-nation island with Dutch and French influences, offering a unique blend of European sophistication and tropical charm. Our team of travel enthusiasts has meticulously curated a selection of excursions that showcase the best of this Caribbean gem, and we extend our commitment globally with Excursions International, offering curated adventures beyond St. Maarten.

Our Journey: StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com was founded in 2005 with a deep love for St. Maarten’s unique charm and a desire to provide cruise passengers with immersive and memorable experiences. Our team, composed of seasoned travelers and local experts, is committed to ensuring that your time ashore is filled with the vibrant energy and cultural richness that define St. Maarten.

Why Choose StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com:

Local Expertise: We believe in showcasing the authentic beauty of St. Maarten. Collaborating with local guides and businesses, our excursions provide an immersive experience that reflects the island’s rich history, diverse culture, and natural wonders.

Diverse Adventures: Whether you’re exploring pristine beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or experiencing the vibrant local scene, our diverse range of excursions caters to every traveler’s preferences, creating a personalized and enriching experience.

Customer-Centric Approach: Your satisfaction is our priority. From the moment you explore our excursions online to the time you reboard your cruise ship, our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Excursions International: StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com proudly introduces “Excursions International” – an extension of our commitment to extraordinary experiences beyond St. Maarten. Excursions International invites you to explore curated adventures in various international destinations, enhancing your cruise journey with a global touch.

Discover Beyond St. Maarten with Us: Excursions International opens the door to a world of possibilities. Whether you’re cruising through Central America, the Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean or venturing into other exotic locales, our global collection of excursions promises cultural enrichment and thrilling adventures.

Join us at StMaartenCruiseExcursions.com and Excursions International as we redefine cruise excursions, offering not just a glimpse into the beauty of St. Maarten but a passport to extraordinary adventures around the world. Your journey begins here, where every destination becomes an opportunity for new discoveries and lasting memories!

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We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into the port of St Maarten

St Martin Catamaran Excursions – $119us

St Maarten ATV Island Tour and Beach – $70us

St Maarten Catamaran Tour : Snorkeling, Beaches and Sailing – $125us

St Maarten Trail and Beach Horseback Riding Tour – $75usd

Three Island Snorkeling and Beach Adventure – $89us

St Maarten Island Tour & Parrot Sanctuary – $40usd

ATV Full Island Tour – $95us

St Maarten Private Catamaran Charter – From $1,500us

Rhino Riders Beach Adventure – $129us

St Maarten Waverunner Tours – $100us

Private Boat Charter: Snorkeling & Beach – From $1,125us

St Maarten Jeep Island Tour – $75us

St Maarten Jetski Rental with Beach Option – $60us

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Open-Air Double-Decker Island Tour (SM93)

Port of Call

Activity Level & Duration

Experience Type

Explore St. Maarten by double-decker bus.

Double-decker bus tour, know before you go.

View important additional information to help you prepare for this exciting adventure.