Private charters in St Martin / St Maarten
Private boat charters in St Maarten & St Martin
Enjoy a private boat charter around St Martin & St Maarten with flexible itineraries, calm-water cruising, snorkelling stops, and departures from marinas across the island.
Whether you’re looking for a half-day private charter, a full-day boat charter, or a relaxed sunset cruise, we’ll help you choose the right option based on your group, timing, and how you want to spend your day.
Half-day, full-day, and sunset private charters available.

Choose the right private charter
Half-day private charters
A relaxed cruise ideal for swimming, exploring, and enjoying the coastline without committing to a full day.
Full-day private charters
A complete day on the water with time to explore multiple beaches, swim stops, and more of the island.
Sunset private charters
A shorter, end-of-day experience focused on calm water, golden light, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Why choose a St Maarten private charter?
A private boat charter around St Martin & St Maarten is often the most flexible way to spend a day on the water.
Rather than focusing on a single destination, most charters combine several highlights into one trip — with the freedom to adapt the day around your group, the weather, and how you want to spend your time.
Popular stops may include Pinel Island, Tintamarre, Creole Rock, Maho Beach, Mullet Bay, Long Bay, Happy Bay, and other calm coastal anchorages depending on conditions.
Unlike longer island crossings, more of your day is spent swimming, snorkelling, cruising, and relaxing rather than travelling between destinations.
Why guests choose a private boat charter in St Maarten
Flexible itineraries
Unlike fixed boat tours, private charters allow you to adapt the day around your group. Swim, snorkel, cruise, relax, or spend longer at your favourite stop.
More time enjoying the water
Shorter cruising distances mean more time swimming, snorkelling, sightseeing, and relaxing instead of travelling between islands.
Ideal for families and mixed-age groups
Calm coastal cruising, flexible schedules, and shorter travel times make St Maarten one of the easiest charter destinations for families.
Perfect for half-day charters
The island offers enough variety to create a memorable private boat experience even when you only have a few hours available.
Excellent swimming and snorkelling
Popular locations such as Pinel Island, Tintamarre, Creole Rock, Mullet Bay, and Happy Bay offer some of the most enjoyable swimming and snorkelling around St Martin.
Is a St Maarten charter right for your group?
Often best for:
- first-time visitors
- families
- snorkelling enthusiasts
- half-day charters
- sunset cruises
- cruise guests
- mixed-age groups
- guests wanting flexibility
You may prefer Anguilla if:
- beaches are your highest priority
- you want time ashore
- you’re looking for crystal-clear water and a relaxed island atmosphere
You may prefer St Barts if:
- restaurants and beach clubs are important
- you want time in Gustavia
- you’re looking for a premium full-day island experience

Based on the island. Here to help.
Based in St Martin / St Maarten
Speak to someone who knows the boats
Flexible help before and after booking
We help you choose the right charter based on your group, your timing, and how you want to spend your day — whether that’s a half-day trip, a full-day charter, or a relaxed sunset cruise.
Why book through EXPLR.SX?
Local knowledge
We live and work in St Martin and know which boats, routes, and experiences work best for different groups.
Trusted operators
We only work with trusted local captains and charter operators that we know personally.
Availability checked for you
No need to contact multiple operators. We check availability and recommend the most suitable options based on your group and dates.
One point of contact
From your first enquiry until the day of your charter, you’ll deal directly with EXPLR.SX for guidance and support.
Reserve with a deposit
Secure your charter with a deposit online. The remaining balance is paid directly to your captain on the day.
Still deciding?
→ How much time you really need to enjoy the day.
→ The easiest, most enjoyable private boat experiences for first-time visitors to St Maarten.
→ This guide explains what really matters when choosing the right size private boat charter.
Need help choosing the right charter?
Not all charters are the same — some are better suited to a shorter half-day private charter close to shore, while others are designed for a full-day private charter exploring more of the island.
If you’re looking for something more relaxed at the end of the day, a sunset private charter offers a calmer, evening experience on the water.
If you’re unsure, we’ll guide you to the best option based on your group and your plans.
How booking works
We check availability first — you only pay once your charter is confirmed.
Share your preferred dates, group size, and the type of experience you're looking for.
We check availability and recommend the most suitable private charters based on your requirements.
Reserve your charter with a deposit. The remaining balance is paid directly to your captain on the day of your trip.
Before you book
St Maarten charters are typically more flexible than cross-island trips, with multiple departure points and shorter travel distances.
Routes may vary depending on weather and sea conditions, but most charters stay within calmer coastal areas, offering a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Full details are always confirmed before you book.

Choose your departure point
Simpson Bay
The most popular departure point for guests staying in Simpson Bay, Maho, Cupecoy, Pelican Key, and surrounding areas. Convenient marina access and excellent access to the Dutch-side coastline.
Philipsburg
A convenient option for cruise ship guests arriving in St Maarten. Depending on the charter selected, pick-up may be available close to the cruise port or via a short transfer to a nearby marina.
Cole Bay
A flexible marina departure point offering easy access to both the Dutch and French sides of the island.
Marigot
A relaxed French-side departure point ideal for guests staying in Marigot, Baie Nettlé, Terres Basses, Orient Bay, and Grand Case.
Nettle Bay
Convenient for villa guests staying in Baie Nettlé, Terres Basses, and surrounding French-side accommodations.
Anse Marcel
A quieter premium departure point on the French side with sheltered waters and easy access to Tintamarre and Pinel Island.
What guests say about booking with EXPLR.SX
Real feedback from guests who trusted EXPLR.SX to plan their time in St Martin & St Maarten — from private boat charters to island day trips.
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Common concerns
Most guests have similar questions before booking.
You may also find these guides useful:
→ How conditions are handled and your options.
→ Understanding deposits, communication, and what to check before booking.
→ When to book — and when last-minute still works.
→ How to avoid common mistakes when booking.
→ The calmest routes, easiest crossings, and best options for guests worried about seasickness.
Private Boat Charter FAQs
Most guests booking a private boat charter in St Martin have similar questions about pricing, departure points, weather conditions, booking timelines, and choosing the right boat.
The answers below cover the most common questions we receive before booking.
How much does a private boat charter cost in St Maarten?
Private boat charter prices in St Martin and St Maarten vary depending on the type of boat, group size, trip duration, and destination. Half-day private charters generally cost less than full-day experiences, while larger boats and premium charters typically have higher rates.
Most private charters include the boat, captain, fuel for the planned itinerary, and a selection of drinks. Some charters may also include snorkelling equipment and light refreshments.
The easiest way to get accurate pricing is to tell us your preferred date, group size, and whether you're looking for a half-day, full-day, or sunset charter. We'll recommend the most suitable options and confirm availability before any payment is required.
What’s the difference between half-day and full-day charters?
A half-day private charter is ideal for guests who want a few hours on the water without committing to a full day. Most half-day trips focus on swimming, snorkelling, sightseeing, and relaxing at a selection of nearby locations around St Maarten.
A full-day charter offers more flexibility and time. You'll be able to visit multiple beaches and snorkelling locations, spend longer in the water, and enjoy a more relaxed pace throughout the day.
If you're visiting Anguilla or St Barts, a full-day charter is generally recommended due to the additional travel distance.
Where do private boat charters depart from?
Private boat charters can depart from several marinas and bays around St Martin and St Maarten, depending on the boat you choose and where you're staying.
Common departure locations include Simpson Bay, Philipsburg, Cole Bay, Marigot, Nettle Bay, and Anse Marcel. Some charters can also arrange pick-up points closer to cruise passengers or villa guests depending on operational requirements.
We'll always confirm the exact departure location before booking and provide clear instructions before the day of your charter.
Can we choose where to go?
Yes. One of the main advantages of a private boat charter is flexibility.
While weather and sea conditions always influence the final route, most private charters allow you to tailor the day around your preferences. Depending on the charter selected, popular destinations may include Pinel Island, Tintamarre, Creole Rock, Mullet Bay, Long Bay, Happy Bay, Anguilla, or St Barts.
Our role is to help match you with the right charter for the type of experience you're looking for and to recommend an itinerary that works well for your group.
Do you offer shared boat tours?
EXPLR.SX specialises primarily in private boat charters, allowing guests to enjoy a more flexible and personalised experience.
Unlike shared tours, private charters give your group exclusive use of the boat, greater itinerary flexibility, and the freedom to spend the day at your own pace.
If you're specifically looking for a shared excursion, feel free to contact us and we'll advise whether a suitable option is available for your dates.
How does booking work?
Booking is simple.
Start by telling us your preferred dates, group size, and the type of experience you're looking for. We'll check availability and recommend the most suitable charter options.
Once you've chosen your preferred option, you'll secure the booking with a deposit. The remaining balance is normally paid directly to your captain on the day of the charter.
We'll provide all necessary information before your trip, including departure details and any important practical information.
What’s included in the price?
What's included varies slightly between charters, but most private boat charters include the boat, captain, fuel for the planned itinerary, and a selection of drinks.
Many charters also provide snorkelling equipment and floating accessories. Some premium charters may include additional amenities depending on the vessel selected.
We'll always explain exactly what's included before you confirm your booking so there are no surprises.
Is a private charter suitable for children?
Yes. Many private boat charters are ideal for families travelling with children.
Private charters offer greater flexibility than group excursions, allowing you to adapt the pace of the day around your family. Shorter cruising distances, calm-water swimming locations, and flexible schedules often make private charters one of the most enjoyable activities for families visiting St Martin.
If you're travelling with young children, simply let us know when enquiring and we'll recommend the most suitable options.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety always comes first.
Captains monitor weather and sea conditions closely and may adjust routes to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience possible. In many cases, alternative itineraries can be used to avoid rough conditions while still providing an excellent day on the water.
If conditions make the charter unsafe to operate, options may include rescheduling or alternative arrangements depending on the circumstances and operator policies.
We'll always keep you informed and help coordinate the best solution if weather becomes a concern.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is always recommended, especially during busy periods, holidays, and peak travel seasons.
Popular boats and larger private charters often book well ahead of time, particularly for weekends and holiday dates. However, last-minute availability is sometimes possible, especially for smaller groups or flexible schedules.
If your dates are fixed, it's usually best to enquire as early as possible to maximise your choice of boats and departure times.
Tell us what you have in mind
Tell us your date, group size, and what you’re looking for, and we’ll guide you to the best available private charter.
Reserve your date with a deposit. Balance paid on the day.
