Best departure point for a private boat charter in St Maarten & St Martin
The best departure point for a private boat charter in St Maarten depends less on the boat itself and more on where you’re staying, the type of day you want, and how you’d like the trip to begin.
Some departure points are more central and convenient. Others feel quieter, more scenic, or more private.
This guide explains the main options across the island so you can choose the one that makes the most sense for your day on the water.
How to choose the right departure point
Where you’re staying
The most practical departure is often the one closest to your hotel or villa
How you want the day to feel
Some locations feel busier and more central, while others are quieter and more relaxed
What kind of trip you want
Your departure point can affect the start of the route and the overall feel of the day
Does the departure point really matter?
In most cases, yes, but not in a complicated way.
You will still enjoy a private boat day from any of the main departure areas, but the starting point can affect convenience, atmosphere, and how the day begins.
For example, Simpson Bay is usually the easiest choice for hotel guests staying on the Dutch side, while Marigot or Anse Marcel may feel more natural for guests based on the French side.
Some areas also feel busier and more central, while others are calmer, quieter, or more villa-friendly.
The goal is not to choose the “best” location in absolute terms, but the one that best matches your stay and your preferences.
Compare the main departure points
Simpson Bay
Easy, central, and close to many hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Best for guests staying on the Dutch side who want the most straightforward start.
Cole Bay
A practical marina-based departure with a slightly more local, boating-focused feel. Best for guests who want flexibility and easy access from the Simpson Bay area.
Marigot
A relaxed French-side departure with a scenic waterfront setting and easy access to calm coastal cruising. Best for guests staying in Marigot, Grand Case, or nearby areas.
Nettle Bay
A calm lagoon-side option that works especially well for villa guests and nearby beachfront stays. Best for groups wanting a quiet and low-key start.
Anse Marcel
A quiet, sheltered, premium-feel departure in one of the island’s most peaceful bays. Best for guests looking for a more refined and protected start to the day.
Best departure point based on where you’re staying
If you’re staying in Simpson Bay, Maho, or nearby resorts
Simpson Bay is usually the easiest choice, with Cole Bay also a strong option if you prefer a marina-style departure.
If you’re staying in Marigot, Grand Case, or Orient Bay
Marigot is often the most practical and relaxed choice, with Anse Marcel working well for guests further north or looking for a quieter setting.
If you’re staying in a villa or beachfront residence
Nettle Bay and Anse Marcel are both strong options depending on your exact location and the style of departure you want.
What we usually recommend
In most cases, we recommend choosing the departure point that is easiest and most practical based on where you’re staying.
There is rarely a need to overthink it.
If you are staying near Simpson Bay, that is usually the simplest option. If you are staying on the French side, Marigot or Anse Marcel may feel more natural. If you want a quieter, more residential start, Nettle Bay or Anse Marcel can work very well.
The main thing is to match the departure point to your location and the type of atmosphere you want at the start of the day.
That is exactly the kind of guidance we help with.
How booking works
Tell us your dates
Let us know your preferred date and group size
We confirm availability
We check available options and guide you clearly
Reserve with a deposit
Secure your booking online, balance paid on the day
Common questions
Which departure point is best for hotel guests?
For most hotel guests on the Dutch side, Simpson Bay is usually the most practical option. Cole Bay can also work well depending on the charter.
Which departure point is best for villa guests?
That depends on the villa location, but Nettle Bay and Anse Marcel are often good choices for guests staying in quieter residential areas.
Does the departure point change the type of trip?
Sometimes. The overall charter experience can still be similar, but the starting atmosphere, convenience, and early part of the route may vary slightly.
Can you recommend the best departure point for us?
Yes. If you tell us where you’re staying, we can usually guide you toward the most practical option.
Tell us your dates and we’ll guide you
If you’re not sure which departure point makes the most sense, tell us where you’re staying and we’ll recommend the most practical option for your day on the water.
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Based in St Martin / St Maarten, we can help you choose the right boat and itinerary, whether you’re planning an Anguilla day, a St Barts trip or exploring other private charter options.
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