Watersports in St Martin / St Maarten

St Martin / St Maarten is one of the Caribbean’s most fun islands for watersports. Warm, clear water, sheltered bays and a mix of calm lagoons and open coast mean you can find something for every comfort level – from relaxed glass-bottom kayak tours to high-adrenaline jet ski rides and e-foiling sessions.

Choosing a watersports tour instead of just renting gear on the beach gives you structure and safety. You head out with a local guide who knows the conditions, the routes and the best spots, whether that’s mangrove channels in the lagoon, sea-turtle hangouts, or quiet coves away from the crowds. It’s a simple way to maximise your time on the water.

Types of Watersports You Can Book

On this page you’ll find a curated mix of watersports in St Martin / St Maarten, including:

• Glass-bottom kayak tours – Perfect for families and non-swimmers, these tours let you see fish, coral and turtles through a transparent hull while paddling in calm, shallow water.

• Jet ski tours – Guided rides along the coast, often with photo stops and swims in sheltered bays. You follow a guide instead of riding alone, so it feels adventurous but controlled.

• Paddleboard excursions – Stand-up paddleboarding in the lagoon or around quieter beaches is ideal if you like a slower pace and time to take photos.

• E-foiling experiences – For something more futuristic, e-foiling lets you “fly” above the water on an electric board with an instructor by your side.

• RIB and speedboat adventures – Some trips combine fast RIB rides with snorkeling stops, swimming and beach time, which is great for groups who want variety in a single outing.

Each tour is different: some focus on scenery and wildlife, some on adrenaline and speed. Read the descriptions on this page to find the right match for your group and comfort level.

Where Do Watersports Take Place?

Most watersports in St Martin / St Maarten run from easy-to-reach locations such as Orient Bay, Grand Case, Simpson Bay or the lagoon marinas. These areas offer a mix of flat water and gentle swells, so you can enjoy the ride without feeling thrown around by big waves.

Many jet ski and RIB tours follow the coastline to show you hidden beaches and viewpoints you can’t reach by car. Glass-bottom kayak and paddleboard tours usually stay in calmer zones like the lagoon or protected bays, making them suitable for children and beginners.

If you’re not sure which departure point works best based on where you’re staying, you can always contact us and we’ll guide you to the most convenient option.

What’s Included on a Watersports Tour?

Most watersports experiences in St Martin / St Maarten include:

• All necessary equipment (jet skis, kayaks, boards, lifejackets)

• A licensed guide or instructor

• Safety briefing before you start

• Time on the water plus short breaks for swimming or photos

Some tours also include extras such as bottled water, snorkel gear or free photos. Details are listed in each activity’s description, so you know exactly what’s included before you book.

Who Are Watersports Best For?

Because there’s such a range of options, watersports work well for:

• Families – Glass-bottom kayaks and gentle paddleboard tours are great with kids.

• Couples – Jet ski sunsets or a calm double kayak make for a fun shared experience.

• Groups of friends – RIB and jet ski tours are ideal if you want more speed and adventure.

• Solo travellers – Joining a small-group tour is an easy way to get on the water without organising a full private charter.

If you’re unsure which tour suits your group, start by thinking about how confident everyone is in the water and how long you’d like to be out. Shorter 1–2 hour trips are perfect for mixed abilities; longer tours work well if everyone is comfortable being active.

Tips for Booking Watersports in St Martin / St Maarten

• Book early in high season – December to April dates can fill quickly, especially for mid-morning and sunset slots.

• Wear reef-safe sunscreen and a hat – the sun on the water is strong year-round.

• Bring a dry bag or use the guide’s storage if you’re worried about phones and valuables.

• Tell your guide about any concerns (nervous swimmers, back issues, very young children) so they can adapt the route and pace.

Booking through EXPLR.SX means you’re choosing trusted local operators with clear pricing and a simple, secure deposit system. You keep flexibility in your schedule while knowing your watersports experience is confirmed and organised before you arrive.