St Martin or St Maarten is a stunning island we visit frequently on Motor Yacht Loon’s Caribbean charters and is often our starting point for Caribbean itineraries. The island is a favorite among the crew and guests due to its idyllic scenery, jaw-dropping anchorage spots, and vibrant land life. If you can tear yourself away from the luxury and joy of Loon, then this guide to Saint Martin / Sint Maarten includes all the reasons why this incredible island is a must-visit on your next superyacht charter in the Caribbean.
An Island of Two Halfs
Part of the Leeward Islands, Saint Martin is a stunning island located about 250km north of Continental Guadeloupe. To the south lies St. Kitts, to the east St Barths, and north is Anguilla, a wreck diving paradise. This volcanic, tropical paradise boasts lush rainforests, lofty green peaks, beautiful beaches, sparkling waters, and a myriad of coves and secluded beaches that can be easily reached and explored from the yacht.
Split in two, St Martin is the smallest landmass on the planet occupied by two independent countries. Its French (Saint Martin) and Dutch (Sint Maarten) ownership has influenced a unique and distinctive mix of culture and personality.
Saint Martin
The larger, less developed, quaint French side on the north of the island has a distinctive European feel with beautifully secluded beaches and colorful gingerbread houses. The capital town of Marigot, once a tiny fishing village, is now known for its gourmet bistros that line its winding Mediterranean-style streets. Fine art enthusiasts should stop by the gallery of world famous impressionist Sir Roland Richardson. Resting above the town sits Fort Louis, a fort built in 1789 to protect Marigot Bay. After climbing to the summit, revel in the reward of 360-degree views, where you’ll see Simpson Bay and even Anguilla in the distance.
With no restrictions on waterskiing or jet-skiing, the turquoise bay of Grand Case is the perfect anchorage spot. Guests can spend the day taking full advantage of Loon’s impressive toybox, whether they choose the thrill-seeking adrenaline rush of the jet skis and inflatable towables, assisted exploring with our Seabobs, brushing up their water sports skills with our wakeboards, efoils and water ski’s, or the tranquillity and zen offered by the FunAir sea pool and inflatable loungers. When it’s time to stretch the legs, the village of Grand Case will not disappoint. Known as the food capital of the Caribbean, there are plenty of fine dining establishments offering a delectable fusion of Creole and traditional French cuisine. On Tuesdays between January and March, Grand Case plays host to parades, concerts, and craft stalls.
Anse Marcel and nearby Pinel Island offer shallow, calm, and pristine waters and white sandy beaches. It’s also a great place to start many local hikes, being just over half a mile away from the hiking area of Red Rock. The marine park offers the perfect spot for snorkelling, with plenty of sea life to spot, such as sea turtles, Parrot fish, and Nassau Grouper. Above water is a haven for birds where you’ll spot plenty of Pelicans and Tropicbirds. Tintamarre is a small, uninhabited island situated around 2 miles offshore, and its waters offer another spectacular snorkelling site.
Orient Bay and the nearby Le Galion Beach, or Coconut Grove, offer the ultimate spot for wind and kite surfing with our huge range of Cabrinha Kites, as well as surfing. Its shallow waters make it a great place for learning or getting your legs back if it’s been a while.
Sint Maarten
To the south, St. Maarten’s Dutch side has a more laid-back Caribbean vibe and a busier and livelier atmosphere. It’s home to an array of jewellers, designer stores, art galleries, casinos, and buzzing nightlife. Its capital, Philipsburg, features spectacular colonial architecture and a major port. It’s also known as the island’s main shopping and commercial center, offering an array of high-end luxury boutiques and designer stores at duty-free prices. The Dutch side plays host to a calendar of exciting festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous St. Martin Heineken Regatta.
Simpson Bay is home to numerous private residences and one of the lengthiest stretches of beach on the island. At the beach’s western end lies Simpsons Bay’s wreak, a fascinating snorkelling site covered in coral and sea urchins. Simpson Bay is also the island’s premier nightlife district and it’s peppered with beach bars, restaurants, lively musical bars such as Red Piano, and nightclubs. It’s here where you can witness the opening of the infamous Simpson Bay Bridge, which Loon has squeezed through many times as we made our way into the bay.
However long you choose to stay in the pristine waters of St Martin, M/Y Loon can plan the perfect itinerary, taking in as much of the island and its activities as you desire. We also keep a few of our favorite locations to ourselves, so be sure to book your next Caribbean superyacht charter with M/Y Loon to discover all the secret spots.
To find out more about chartering Motor Yacht Loon please email us at info@yachtloon.com.