There’s no better way to explore the stunning Caribbean waters around St Martin than by boat. The routes and itineraries you can plan are varied and adapt to those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both.
Departing from Simpson Bay, we’ve crafted 2 incredible itineraries to help you make the most of your time on the water.
Itinerary 1: St Martin’s West Coast – Terres Basses Region
In this itinerary we sail to the westernmost point of St Martin, the area known as ‘Terres Basses’ or low lands.
- Departure Point: Simpson Bay
- Highlights: Maho Beach (the famous airplane beach), Mullet Bay, Long Bay, Baie Rouge
- Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, sunset lovers
1. Maho Beach – The Famous Plane Spotting Beach
As we set sail from Simpson Bay, we will pass near the legendary Maho Beach, where low-flying jets approaching the airport soar just a few meters overhead from the tourists. This iconic spot is a must-see for thrill-seekers and aviation enthusiasts.
Note that boats are not allowed to anchor here for security reasons, so we will just pass by. If you want to enjoy it from the beach, you will be able to snap some photos, feel the jet blast, and enjoy the lively beach bars together with a very excited crew of tourists.
2. Mullet Bay – For Surfers & Snorkeling Lovers
Next, a few minutes north-west we will find Mullet Bay, a favorite beach among locals and visitors alike. Mullet Bay is known for its prisitne water and white sand beach. The waves can also be good so we can sometime spot surfers during the few days in the year that there’s surf in St Martin.
When facing the beach, you can head to the right and walk along the rocks to reach a fun, low jump spot. The beach bars here add also a cool vibe, making it a lively spot to party.
3. Long Bay (Baie Longue) – Luxury & Seclusion
A short sail north from Mullet Bay brings us to Long Bay, one of St Martin’s most beautiful and secluded beaches. Home to the luxurious hotel/resort Belmond La Samanna, this stretch of powdery white sand and turquoise water is ideal for:
- Sunbathing & Relaxation – Enjoy the peaceful, uncrowded shoreline.
- Cliff Jumping – For adrenaline junkies, a leap from the nearby cliffs is always a good idea.
- Sunset Dining – Anchor here for a private onboard dinner with breathtaking sunset views. We come to Long Bay for our Sunset Dinner Boat Charter and Tapas & Cocktails Boat Tour in St Martin.
4. Baie Rouge – A Hidden Gem with Pink Sands & Adventure
Our final west coast stop is Baie Rouge, after sailing around the peninsula of Terres Basses and changing direction towards East to arrive to this beautiful beach. Baie Rouge is known for its pinkish sands and beautiful red cliffs. This secluded paradise is perfect for:
- Snorkeling & Exploring – Swim through natural rock arches and discover hidden coves like Trou de David.
- Street Art Sightseeing – Admire the “HeavenSteps” art installation by local artist Wall Art St Martin.
- Tranquil Vibes – Escape the crowds and soak in the untouched beauty of this Caribbean gem.
Why Choose This Itinerary?
- Perfect for groups, couples, and families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, but who don’t want to cruise too much.
- Great snorkeling spots at Baie Rouge, and also nice at Long Bay.
- Unbeatable sunset views at Long Bay.
- Secluded beaches away from the tourist crowds.
Itinerary 2: St Martin’s East Coast – Anse Marcel Beach, and Pinel & Tintamarre Islands
In this itinerary we exit the Lagoon from its north exit, by the Sandy Ground bridge on the French side and then we sail north-east for a great beach stop and visiting 2 islands: Pinel and Tintamarre.
- Departure Point: Simpson Bay
- Highlights: Anse Marcel Bay, Pinel Island, and Tintamarre Island
- Best For: Snorkeling, beach relaxation, wildlife observation, secluded anchoring spots
1. Anse Marcel – A Beautiful Secluded Bay
Our first east coast stop is Anse Marcel, a stunning sheltered bay framed by lush green hills. This upscale area is home to the upscale Anse Marcel beach Restaurant and offers a tranquil beach far from the crowds, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Anse Marcel is also very protected from the winds, so its the perfect stop for spending some time in the water kayaking & paddleboarding.
The surrounding cliffs covered in forest and tropical foliage make this one of the most picturesque yet wild bays in St Martin.
2. Pinel Island – A Tiny Slice of Paradise
Just a short sail from Anse Marcel, our second stop is Pinel Island, a small, idyllic cay off St Martin’s northeast coast. Accessible only by boat, Pinel is famous for its shallow, crystal-clear waters, that are perfect for swimming and wading. Kids love it! This small island has a couple vibrant beach bars: the Yellow Beach and the Karibuni.
With the boat moored at the east coast of Pinel island you will have the chance to enjoy great snorkeling to spot colorful fish and even sea turtles and rays near the rocky edges of the island.
Pinel island is a very tiny piece of rock and grass but has some hike trails, in case you want to hike the island’s viewpoints for panoramic views of the ocean and the east coast of St Martin.
3. Tintamarre Island – A Wild & Untouched Gem
Last, we sail to Tintamarre, an uninhabited island known for its rugged beauty and pristine beaches. This secluded paradise is a nature protected area, and offers white sandy shores & turquoise waters, often deserted, making it feel like your own private island. Being a nature reserve makes it easy for wildlife encounters, like sea turtles, rays, and even dolphins in the surrounding waters when it is the season.
The main beach at Tintamarre is located on its west side, but there’s also a hidden bay on the east side if you are into wild snorkeling and hidden coves.
Why Choose This Itinerary?
- Perfect for nature lovers: Habited and unhabited islands, wildlife, and natural beauty.
- Great snorkeling & water activities, with thriving marine life at Pinel and Tintamarre.
- A mix of relaxation & adventure: beach bars at Pinel with a luxury touch, together with the wilderness of Tintamarre.
- Less crowded than other spots around St Martin.
- If you like spending time cruisig,
Come Sail With Us!
At Pyratz SXM, we don’t just offer boat charters: we create unforgettable experiences!
The sailing itineraries around St Martin that we described above are just 2 examples of itineraries we organize every week. And it’s our guests choosing where to sail and for how long staying on each spot! Whether you’re craving the thrill of cliff jumping at Long Bay, the serene beauty of Tintamarre’s untouched shores, or the beautiful beach bars of Pinel Island, our crew will tailor your journey to perfection.
Our luxury catamarans, with open bar and full-dining experience, ensure comfort, style, and safety, while our captains share hidden gems only insiders know. From private romantic sunset cruises to action-packed island-hopping adventures, we’ve got the perfect boat charter in St Martin waiting for you.
Why wait? The turquoise waters of St Martin, St Barths, and Anguilla are calling.
Book your private sailing escape today at PyratzSXM.com/book/ and let’s make memories that last a lifetime! ⛵🌴
