Anguilla to St. Martin and Sint Maarten – A Most Delightful Day Trip

Start with a crisp plan: take the first ferry from Anguilla’s Blowing Point to Marigot, then rent a bicycle and roll toward the beachside towns. The crossing lasts roughly 25–40 minutes, and a short taxi lands you on the French side. They say this setup keeps you independent and efficient, with things to see and nature to savor. In case you crave variety, a short detour to a rocky cove adds a memorable pause. This route makes for a perfect destination for a sunny, self-contained day.

On the French-Caribbean shore, painted facades glow along the harbor as the local market fills with citrus, bread, and spice. The country’s french-caribbean blend is evident in every corner, and a short ride along the rocky coast keeps you moving while the views rise above the water.

Meet charles, the chief cook at a small beachside cafe near Great Bay; he offers dining options, from grilled snapper to conch salad and lime-marinated vegetables.

Still, the still air along the docks feels refreshing as you cross back toward Anguilla by sunset. Check ferry times, have cash for border snacks, and keep your camera ready for the color shifts over the water.

Practical Day-Trip Plan for Crewed Charters Across Anguilla, St. Martin, and Sint Maarten

Start with a nine-hour, three-leg plan: depart Blowing Point at 08:00, keep your crew in sync, and cruise the windwards route toward St. Martin’s eastern shore, passing Grand Case and its trails. Stop first near Grand Case for a quick ashore lunch along the waterfront, enjoying lots of fresh dishes, then push toward Sint Maarten for an evening stroll and a quiet dockside moment before returning to Anguilla as the sun sinks.

Route details and timings: Anguilla to St. Martin typically takes 1.5–2 hours at cruising speeds of 18–22 knots, depending on seas and wind. The first stop can be a snorkel at Creole Rock or a quick swim off little bays near Grand Case. thats a delightful moment to keep guests engaged without long delays. What guests want is a concise mix of scenery, flavor, and ease. Next, a waterfront lunch near Grand Case offers a mix of local dishes and some international options. After that, cross to Sint Maarten for a brief stroll along the quiet Marigot waterfront, then return to Anguilla by early evening.

Crossing between countries requires entry coordination for the crew and passengers. Your captain coordinates with port agents for the entry clearance so that guests experience smooth transitions, independent from island crowds. The itinerary includes two drops for ashore exploration, with time for shopping or coffee along the quiet quay and a possible quick tender to a nearby waterfront.

Safety and navigation: keep an eagle watch on the horizon and monitor charts for sunk hazards and shallow spots. If seas lift, the crew fought a brief chop, then shorten the legs or flip the order so guests stay comfortable. The plan accommodates some weather variation and little delays, delivering a delightful day that feels built around your guests with on-deck bites and drinks. The crew can live on deck or below, depending on weather, and return with a calm evening on Anguilla.

Born from generations of Caribbean seafaring, this plan covers multiple locations and trails across Anguilla, St. Martin, and Sint Maarten. That said, the plan compresses days of coastal exploration into a single long daylight stretch. It offers several kinds of experiences–snorkeling, waterfront dining, beach stops near Grand Case, and relaxed ashore time along the quay. The routine keeps the crew engaged with independent tasks and maintains a steady rhythm for guests who want a day that feels grand yet intimate. It itself adapts to ferry schedules and entry windows, with lots of flexible moments that make the itinerary delightful and practical. Ferries between islands provide optional add-ons to extend the day, and the crew can adapt entry and departure times accordingly.

Ideal departure windows and transit durations between islands

Your best start is from Blowing Point dock between 08:30 and 09:15 to reach Marigot by 09:15–10:00, leaving daylight for sightseeing and a relaxed head start for your day.

Transit times vary by craft: fast catamaran 25–35 minutes; standard ferry 50–60 minutes; private boat 20–40 minutes depending on wind and current. For maho Beach access, pick Philipsburg dock if you want a quick stroll toward the lighthouse and sunset view near the airport.

Winter months bring steady trade winds and calm seas, making morning crossings reliable. Spring to early summer stay mild, while late summer can bring gusts. Nothing slows you when you pick morning windows and move among the dock area near Marigot or Philipsburg.

Next, head to maho for a quick bite of local food. Kite riders riding the sea breeze mark the shoreline, and a lighthouse glow on the coast pairs with a star glint over the water as the harbor lights spread along Front Street.

This plan offers a plethora of viewpoints, from maho kite spots to the lighthouse near the dock, your day can spread across coastline, food stalls, and harbor views, with a star glare at sunset.

Review your plan with your chief crew: keep transfers short, pace relaxed, and mix sightseeing with food stops across the two sides. Lead your day with flexibility and you will enjoy a memorable, safe trip on Anguilla to St. Martin and Sint Maarten, with the things you want to see as your guide.

Preferred stops for snorkeling, beaches, and a seaside lunch

Start at Creole Rock for snorkeling, then Colombier for a sheltered beach pause, and finish with a seaside lunch along Grand Case’s quay. Snorkel 45–60 minutes at Creole Rock to see parrotfish, wrasse, and rays, while the water stays clear and warm. horatio leads from the helm of a couple of ready vessels, keeping the group together and mindful of currents.

the colombier bay offers a crescent entry and a sand shelf that make it fabulous for a lazy swim. The spot is called among the best for calm water, offering protection from trade winds. During a 60–90 minute stay you can relax on powdery sand, snorkel a shallow reef, and wander the nearby hills that overlook the bays.

Lunch: Grand Case’s waterfront options form a riviera-like scene along the quay, with a dozen restaurants offering lobster, fresh fish, conch salads, and seasonal ceviche. Choose a deck seat with sea views and order a light starter plus an island-style main; the vibe is fabulous, and owners greet guests with a friendly, low-key pace. For a quick alternative, Pinel Island also offers seaside spots if you crave a shorter lunch break.

Planning tips: The timetable hinges on times and conditions; look for protected bays during planning to avoid heavy chop. Owners who are looking to welcome guests staff the seaside spots with a friendly vibe. If you want to extend, a quick stop at the museums on the Sint Maarten side can add a cultural note. This route offers an unparalleled mix of snorkeling, beaches, and a fabulous lunch, with experiences that each offer a different mood of the island’s sides.

Customs, immigration timing, and port clearance flow for a day hop

Plan the day with a tight window: depart Blowing Point around 08:00, return by 16:00–17:00, and reserve 60–90 minutes for immigration and port clearance on both ends. Pre-fill any forms if available and keep passports ready; this keeps the process smooth. there isnt a better point for a half-day trip, and there there is no need to rush.

Arriving on Marigot’s quay, head to the French immigration counters first; present your passport and onward travel details. If you have goods to declare, use the red channel and declare at once. After the stamp, this lead to a smoother flow into the port area, where you can also sample tripadvisor-recommended eateries nearby.

Back at the dock, customs checks are typically quick when you have receipts for souvenirs and a reasonable luggage bag. Allow 20–25 minutes during off-peak hours; peak times can stretch to 40 minutes. For britain travelers and others, keep passports handy as you approach the counter and listen for the chief officer’s instructions; if you arent sure, a quick map from the desk helps.

Within 60 minutes of clearance, decide how to travel: rental car or taxi for a fast loop through Anse Marcel and the southeasterly coast. A rental leads to a smooth timetable, letting you visit golden beaches, a dozen cliff overlooks, and homes tucked into mountainous terrain. You can also spread time to stop at a waterfront lookout or at a small dinghy pier for a quick coast view, weather permitting.

For divers and snorkelers, a short dinghy ride to a wreck or shallow reef offers a quick diving option; confirm with the operator and ensure you return to the quay well before your sailing. There are several eateries along the coast where you can refuel after your trip.

Return flow: head back to Marigot or Philipsburg to catch your return ferry; present your passport again for the Anguilla exit and clear Anguilla customs before boarding; keep receipts for purchases and have your return ticket handy. This approach keeps the day easy and flexible while preserving time for a last-minute photo by the wreck or a visit to a dozen homes along the coast.

Inclusions: crew roles, onboard amenities, safety gear, and inclusions

Choose a small-crew day charter with three crew members to guarantee personalized service and a smooth, well-paced itinerary that sails towards gustavia and along the rocky southeastern coast. Book through tripadvisor or clickboat to confirm exact inclusions, times, and the route.

Here is the practical breakdown of what you get on board:

• Captain: leads the boat, maintains safety, and coordinates with docks and harbor staff to keep shifts smooth and on track toward gustavia’s scenery near Fourchue.
• First Mate: handles lines during boarding, assists guests with gear, and conducts safety briefings and checks.
• Deck Host: serves water and snacks, explains sights along the route, and assists with swimming stops near anse coves and other treasures.

• Onboard amenities: shaded seating, non-slip deck, and a freshwater rinse shower for post-swim comfort.
• Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) in multiple sizes, with extra towels, sunscreen, and a light variety of snacks, including a bite of local pastry.
• Beverages include cold water and soft drinks; an ice chest keeps drinks cool throughout the trip.
• Garbage management: labeled containers and a built-in policy to minimize waste, with proper disposal ashore to keep waters clean.

• Safety gear: USCG-approved life jackets for all guests in sizes, throwable flotation devices, VHF radio, whistle, and a compact first aid kit with seasickness remedies.
• Fire extinguisher and emergency beacon as required, plus clear instructions posted on deck for quick reference.
• Notes: crew can point out sights such as the Hamilton waterfront, a nearby museum, and other historical treasures along the southeastern coast; they may reference roads and local paths that connect viewpoints.

• Booking notes: taxes, port fees, and fuel surcharges may apply; verify inclusions on TripAdvisor or ClickBoat pages for your date.
• Additional context: here you’ll find practical tips on timing to swim near Anse and rocky bays, with routes that sometimes skim past Fourchue and towards sheltered coves for the best bite-sized local experiences.

What to pack, dress code, and photography tips for bright Caribbean days

Recommendation: Pack a compact day bag with reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50, a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, quick-dry shirts, a swimsuit with a light cover-up, and a reusable bottle. Add a dry pouch for phone and keys, and a small snack like a pear. Include a lightweight rain shell and a compact towel for beach stops.

• What to pack: reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm with SPF, a microfiber towel, breathable cover-up, quick-dry shorts, a change of underwear, sandals with a strap or water shoes, and a compact camera or smartphone with extra memory. Carry a pear-sized snack and small change for the market.
• Clothing and gear: breathable linen and cotton fabrics, light cardigan, and a light rain shell; footwear for rocky stairs and rocky roads; prefer sandals or boaters for all-day comfort; use a dry bag for electronics at the beach or on a yacht.
• Documentation and extras: waterproof pouch for phone, cash for market purchases, a power bank, and a spare memory card; keep a small map for times you want to note favorite spots.

Dress code

• Keep it casual and comfortable: light linens or cotton outfits, quick-dry tees, and breathable dresses; stay ready for dining aboard a yacht or a street-side dining spot with a neat polo or a breezy sundress.
• Footwear: secure sandals or boaters; avoid heavy shoes when exploring streets and market lanes; for rocky stairs and pier approaches, choose sturdy straps and non-slip soles.
• Sun coverage: pack a crocus-colored scarf or lightweight cover-up to protect shoulders, and bring a light sweater for cooler evenings near the water.

Photography tips for bright Caribbean days

• Best light: target the times near early morning and late afternoon; midday sun creates harsh shadows, so use shade or a polarizer to keep skies blue without blowing out highlights. Look for rockefeller-inspired tones in sunset reflections on water and the harbor facades.
• Composition: frame a view that includes a beach, yacht hulls, and waterfront streets; look for scenes with market stalls, simpson bay lanes, or roads leading to a scenic cove; include an eagle silhouette against the sky for a striking accent.
• Subjects and storytelling: observe exploring locals and boater scenes; capture favorites like a vendor arranging fruit at the market or a couple strolling along a sunny street with a colorful backdrop.
• Technical tips: keep ISO 100–200 on bright days, bracket for dynamic skies, shoot in RAW if possible, and use continuous autofocus for moving subjects on a yacht deck or along the harbor.
• Protection and care: carry a dry bag for gear near spray, wipe lenses with a microfiber cloth when needed, and keep spare cards handy for times you want to shoot more.