Smart Depart Travel
✆: 734-789-7165 | ✉:

Private Two Islands Tour

Offer Image
Experience the charm and scenery of this island that is home to two countries and has been flying the flags of both Holland and France since 1648.

St. Maarten Two Islands Private Day Tour

Two countries on one island for almost 400 years. Wouldn't you love to know how they do it?

Begin your private St. Maarten tour of two countries on one island by departing from the cruise pier and traveling in your air-conditioned vehicle through the Dutch capital of Philipsburg, founded in 1763 by John Phillips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch Navy. Along the way, you'll see the restored courthouse, originally built in 1793, and the shopping district that you may want to visit later. Drive past the Great Salt Pond and through the rolling countryside to the French side of the island.

Along the way, a stop will be made at Cole Bay Lookout for a photo opportunity of the beautiful Simpson Bay, where you'll see the incredible development that has made this sleepy island a major destination. You will continue on through several quaint towns and fishing villages along the north side of the island.

Arriving in Marigot, the French capital which originated as a fishing village, you will observe a truly European ambiance with a touch of Creole. Browse the open-air markets, quaint shops, boutiques, and sidewalk cafes during a brief stop for free time. Continue on with a drive through Grand Case, a seaside town known as the "gourmet capital of the Caribbean," with its gingerbread houses and sidewalk bistros.

A photo stop will be made to look out over the ever-popular Orient Beach area. Returning to Philipsburg via a different route, you will have the option of being dropped off downtown for shopping or being taken back to the pier.

Guests departing downtown will need to arrange their own transportation back to the cruise pier at their own expense via taxi, water taxi, or walking. Dress in comfortable clothing and sensible walking shoes. Sunscreen and sunglasses are suggested.

Please Note: This St. Maarten cruise tour does not visit the beach at Orient. This excursion may operate in reverse due to traffic conditions or crowds at the venues. On Sundays, most shops and restaurants on the French side are closed. All stores are closed on the following national holidays: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Kings Day, Carnival Day, Labor Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, Emancipation Day, Constitution Day, St. Maarten's Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

About Shore Excursions Group
Shore Excursions Group logo
ABOUT US
Shore Excursions Group was created with one goal in mind: to provide exceptional travel experiences to cruise passengers in the ports they visit around the world. To accomplish this, we have compiled an exceptional array of tours delivered by local experts with decades of experience serving travelers and delivering excellent tours. Our owners and management team are comprised of seasoned travel industry executives who leverage their considerable experience to deliver memorie ...
from $31.00 (USD)
Per Person
 
Tour Type
Private
 
Group Size
Private
 
Activity Type(s)
Scenic, Cultural
 
Tour Duration
3 Hours
 
Activity Level
Moderate
 
Tour Leaves From
An approximately 5 to 15 minute walk from the cruise ship pier, or from the cruise ship tender pier.
 
Food/Beverage Provided
Beverages are included.
 
Special Instructions
Comfortable clothing and sensible walking shoes are recommended. Sun glasses and sun screen are also suggested.
 
Restrictions
Guests must be able to walk approximately 200 yards from cruise ship to transportation. Surfaces at lookouts are paved and packed dirt. Please note, infants are free; however, if the parents require the infant to have a seat of their own then they would need to pay for that seat.
7620460

Location