Best Things To Do On A Cruise In SXM

Best things to do in St Martin when visiting on a Cruise ship.

Below we added a list of great things to do for cruise ship visitors; for your ease, we categorized them into 3: places to visit within walking distance from the cruise dock, great boat charters that are back in time, and fun activities specialized for cruise visitors.

Best places to visit within walking distance from the Sint Maarten Cruise-ship dock.

First, we start with some amazing spots for breakfast, lunch, or a beach day on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. These are the locations we highly recommend visiting!

Beach Bars & Restaurants | lunch on the boardwalk in Philipsburg

Ocean Lounge Bar and Restaurant Day - Beach Chairs, Moet Champagne at Holland House Beach Hotel

In the heart of Philipsburg, you have the Ocean Lounge Beach with great food, comfortable Beach Chairs, a Shower & Moet ICE Champagne.

Dutch Blonde Beach Bar - Dutch Pancake House, Windmill and Beergarden on the Boardwalk Philipsburg I

There is definitely a new blonde in town; Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. Enjoy local Beers and Dutch pancakes in this gorgeous Beer Garden.

Bold Buddha on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg - Indian, Asian and European Fushion Cuisine I

Brings a unique combination of Asian, Indian, and Caribbean flavors together right here on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg.

Indigo Beach Restaurant in Indigo Bay Beach - Chic atmosphere, Greenery, Lunch, Beach Chairs IB

Looking for delicious, breathtaking, and away from the crowds & organized tours? Visit Indigo for French cuisine on the beach!

The Tavern Bar & Restaurant in Philipsburg - 360 Degree Views over Great Bay I

The Pirates’ favorite hangout on the top deck of the Rusted ship. Cold drinks and signature dishes while seated around the rum barrels!

Aziana - Asian Fushion Restaurant in Front Street, Philipsburg - Best Sushi, Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian, Indo-Chinese, Poke Bowls- Poa - Noodles - Wok - Restaurants St Maarten.

A diverse and inviting Asian fusion food bar in Philipsburg. Fresh and inspirational dishes and great option for a nice lunch.

Coffee Lounge - Philipsburg, Simpson Bay, Fresh Beans Coffee, Fruit Smoothies, Tea, Sweets, Sandwiches

Panini’s, Sandwiches, Smoothies & Coffee. Tourists relax, professionals unwind, strangers become friends and friends meet… Over Coffee.

Emilio's Food - Historical plantation Restaurant - Fine Dining - St Maarten, St Martin, Sint Maarten, SXM

Located on a historic 18th century sugar cane plantation. Chef Sidney brings a combination of high-end dining with classic Caribbean cuisine.

Best things to do for Cruise ship visitors in Philipsburg

Below we made a selection of boat charters/tours, activities and watersports. All starting within walking distance from the cruise-ship dock.

Catamaran, Yacht or Powerboat Charters leaving from Philipsburg

Choose between a variety of Boat charters that all start from Dock Maarten or Bobby’s Marina,  both Marinas are within walking distance from the Cruise Ship and located in between the Cruise port and Philipsburg.
When you book on We Are SXM, you get far more value for the price and support local companies more. Please be aware that cruise ships take 30/40% of the fee for the sale, allowing local entities to be left with far less. They also make you believe you get a better deal and that it gives you more “security”. Refrain from falling for this trick, as all local entities have similar refund policies and take great care of you.

Eagle Catamaran Tours - Boats - Sailing Cat - Day Trip, Sunset Tour, Private Charter

Lots of shared charter options, great for individuals or groups, sail around St Maarten. All tours including FREE TAXI SERVICE

12 Metre in Philipsburg - Sailing Race Regatta Experience - Real Sailing I

The ultimate yachting challenge, crewing a real America’s Cup boat. A thrilling head-to-head battle between two genuine giants of the ocean!

Random Wind - Luxury Catamaran charter - Family friendly, high quality food and top shelf drinks! We Are SXM - Watersports

St Maarten is known as the friendly island and Random Wind Charters has the Spirit of St. Maarten. An unforgettable Catamaran charter!

PYC - Private Catamaran Charters in Sint Maarten, St Martin, SXM - 2025

Board one of their comfortable luxury Catamarans with full-service onboard and explore secluded Caribbean Islands in Paradise like never before!

Activities and best things to do in Philipsburg and around

When you book on We Are SXM you get far more value for the price and support local companies more. Please be aware that cruise ships take 30/40% of the fee for the sale, allowing local entities to be left with far less. They also make you believe you get a better deal and will tell you if gives you more “security”.  DO NOT fall for this trick as these local entities below have similar refund policies and take great care of you. 

The Rusty Parrot Pirate Experience - Location Philipsburg St. Maarten - Best Family and Kids Activity

This immersive walk-through special effects attraction will make you feel like a true Pirate! Fun for young and old, Arrrrr…..

Rainforest Adventures - Chairlift, Location, Sky View St. Maarten - St. Martin Intro

Zip, Slide, Fly, and Learn. Home to the steepest zipline in the world, “The Flying Dutchman” No way you can miss this experience!

Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store Intro: Products - Cheese, Liquor, Island Souvenirs, TAX FREE! - Next to Cruise Port in Philipsburg

The best Dutch Cheeses & tasty wines from France. With the Wine & Cheese tasting events you get to enjoy the best of both sides!

Caribbean Brewing Company - St. Maarten/St. Martin Beer - Island SXM Beer! Brewery Tour - How to make Beer?

Caribbean Brewing Company: Taste paradise with San Martin’s Island beer, brewed and bottled on SXM! Join the Brewery Tour to learn about this local beer!

Art Craft Café - Art School Experience - Painting, Art Lessons by Tess Verheij - Arts and Crafts for Adults and Kids - Activity

Art School by Tess Verheij and Pottery classes by Laurey-Ann: Be inspired by creativity, get educated, and shop local at the Art Craft Cafe!

Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit Museum -Head of Town - Philipsburg, Capital Dutch St Maarten - Boardwalk activities - Cruise Port - Tourism Destination - Nick Maley's creations for Star Wars, Terminator, Men in Black, Alien.

Nick Maley’s unique movie creations and memorabilia for Star Wars, Alien, Superman, Highlander, Terminator, Men in Black, etc!

Sport and Exercise on St Martin, Maarten, SXM - Kayak, Mountainbike, Cycling, Paddle Board Tours & Rentals - Be Active

Explore SXM by Bike, Hike, or Kayak, Tri-Sport offers Rentals and Tours by trained guides. Upon request they can start from Philipsburg.

Birdpark - Parotte Ville - St. Maarten - St. Martin - Location Belvedere

A hidden gem amongst the sand and waves. This SXM bird paradise is full of beauty, wonder, and history! Super Kids & budget activity, you do need a taxi.

Fun on (or in) the water – Watersports in Philipsburg.

When you book on We Are SXM, you get far more value for the price and support local companies more. Please be aware that cruise ships take 30/40% of the fee for the sale, allowing local entities to be left with far less. They also make you believe you get a better deal and that it gives you more “security”. Refrain from falling for this trick, as the local entities below have similar refund policies and take great care of you.

Dive Sint Maarten - Diving in SXM - Close to Cruiseship Dock, Dive SXM - Philipsburg

Explore the incredible underwater world with Dive Sint Maarten, a friendly and personalized experience with certified instructors.

12 Metre in Philipsburg - Sailing Race Regatta Experience - Real Sailing I

Ultimate yachting challenge, crewing a real America’s Cup boat. A thrilling head-to-head battle between two genuine giants of the ocean!

Bigfoot Jet Ski Rental - Walking distance for Cruise Ship visitors - Watersports Activity Boardwalk Philipsburg Watersports - JetSki Island Tour

Jet Ski Rental & Island Tours – Within walking distance from the Cruise dock on the boardwalk in Philipsburg, great for Cruise Ship visitors!

Shopping in Philipsburg St. Maarten – The best things to buy when visiting on a Cruise!

Our personal selection is based on Quality & Service and their unique character. On top of being Duty-Free, all our partners have a unique selection of either clothing, souvenirs, jewelry etc. Make sure to mention you found them on We Are SXMAnd leave a review of your visit here with us :)

Start filling up your shopping bag! Got your bags ready? GO!

Little Europe St. Maarten - St. Martin - SXM - Products - Jewelry and Watches - Hublot - Zenith - Messika - Piaget - Hermes - Djula - Tous

“Providing quality at great value, people will always come back.” Little Europe’s undeniable success is a result of friendship & loyal support.

St Maarten Nectar - 100% Natural Skincare products made from plants - Healthy skincare in SXM I

Artisanal Skincare products, hand-Made 100% Natural plant-based products, absolute quality. With a booth inside the Cruise ship dock!

Penha Duty Free Shop in Philipsburg, Simpson Bay and Airport Sint Maarten

Penha offers Duty-Free fragrances, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, cigarette cartons, and a lot more from 4 different locations in Sint Maarten!

Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store Intro: Products - Cheese, Liquor, Island Souvenirs, TAX FREE! - Next to Cruise Port in Philipsburg

Say Cheese! Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor store is a prime cheese lovers paradise with the best Dutch and St. Maarten Island souvenirs!

Island Games - Go Fish, Island Card Deck, SXM Memory, St Maarten Games I

Searching for a unique souvenir that helps us bring you all the Island information? Support us by buying one of our island games.

Rue Royale Maison - St. Maarten / St. Martin - European Luxury Lifestyle Store -Brands: Salvatore Ferragamo, Paul & Shark, Lalique, Bentley, Baccarat Christofle

Brings European Luxury essence with the casual and duty-free shopping of SXM. The ultimate lifestyle shopping experience.

ORO Diamante - Location Front Street, Philipsburg, St. Maarten, Fine Jeweler of distrinction - Perfect Cut Diamonds - Custom made Jewelry - Largest pre-owned Rolex & Brand Watch collection.

For loose diamonds, custom made jewels & Pre-owned Rolex watches, Oro stands out in the crowd. Hand- crafted works of art.

Taste paradise with San Martin Island beer! Brewed and bottled on SXM with only the freshest ingredients. Cheers to a local beer!

Taste paradise with the Local Beers from Caribbean Brewing Co. | Brewed & bottled on St. Maarten: Dutch Blonde, Pirate IPA, SXM Light.

SXM Cap project - Island Caps - All Colors - Men, Women, Female, Male - Kids & Adults Intro

Don’t buy just any souvenir when you can buy one that makes a difference. Buy these colorful SXM caps and help plant a tree in SXM.

Best Tours for Cruise Ship visitors to experience the Island of Sint Maarten | Saint Martin

Island Wide Mural Tour - Best Art, Street, Wall and Murals - Jimmy Sheik, Mashinart, Artists SXM

Join this Island Tour to experience the street of SXM, with sightseeing, many murals & street art, local snacks, local BBQ lunch, drinks and fun!

ATV - Quad - 4 Wheel Rental - Sint Maarten, St. Martin, Caribbean Island Tour

An ATV Rental or Tour is the best way to explore our island, pass traffic, stop almost anywhere and visit more remote places reached by off-road trails.

Cultural Heritage Tour

Cultural Heritage Tour by Seagrape - Learn about the history of Sint Maarten

The local identity of SXM is as unique as it is fascinating. Experience the cultural heritage in this Informative, beautiful and tasty tour!

Intro: Jo Junie Tours - Island Tours with Groups or Private Taxi. Intimate, organized and super friendly people!

For the best island view you hire the best local tour company ~ Jo Junie Tours; only experienced local drivers & tour guides!!

Topper's Rhum Distillery in Simpson Bay - Ice cream, Rhum, cake and Island souvenirs

Home of the “Topper’s Rhum” which won over 25 international awards: handmade, bottled and packaged with precision right here in St. Maarten!

Sport and Exercise on St Martin, Maarten, SXM - Kayak, Mountainbike, Cycling, Paddle Board Tours & Rentals - Active lifestyle

Explore Sint Maarten by Bike, e-bike, Hike, or Kayak, Tri-Sport offers tours by trained guides. Or check out their store for Sports equipment & bike repairs.

SXM Rally Tours and Xplore Buggy Rental - 2-seater, 4-seater, 6-seater buggies for rent!

A great way to explore the island on and off-road but yet more secure. You can stop almost anywhere and visit the more remote places.

Off Road Jeep Safari - Rental or Excursion - Jeep Island Tour

On and off-road adventure in which you visit the best sightseeing spots, mesmerizing viewpoints and explore the Caribbean Island SXM.

SXM Coolride - Boardwalk Philipsburg Segway Tour - Explore the Capital of Sint Maarten.

Segway Tours are the best way to explore the famous Boardwalk & Front Street in Philipsburg, the Capital of St Maarten. Fun, Safe and fun for all ages!

West Indies Helicopter Tour - Luxurious Comfortable Helicopter - St. Maarten / St. Martin Sightseeing tour from the Sky!

West Indies Helicopter: See the Island from a whole new “higher” perspective with a Helicopter Aerial Sightseeing tour. Explore the Caribbean beauty!

Culinary Foodie Tour

Foodie Tour - Learn about typical St Maarten and St Martin's food, food culture and local delicacies.

There’s no better place to do a Food Tour than this multi-cultural island. Experience why we are known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean!

Other hot spots in Sint Maarten | Saint Martin – to go by taxi!

Loterie farm, your exacape in nature: Pool, Zipline, Restaurant, Bar, Hike.

Hike through the mesmerizing nature of St. Martin or walk the treetops with the zip line. Admire monkeys, iguanas, mango trees & tropical scenery.

Rainforest Adventures - Chairlift, Location, Sky View St. Maarten - St. Martin Intro

Zip, Slide, Fly, and Learn, home to the steepest zipline in the world, “The Flying Dutchman” No way you can miss this experience!

Birdpark - Parotte Ville - St. Maarten - St. Martin - Location Belvedere

Hidden gem amongst the sand and waves. This SXM bird paradise is full of beauty, wonder and history! Super Kids & budget activity.

Tijon Perfumes - St. Martin / St. Maarten - Grand Case - Make your own perfume, cologne, scent, perfume making classes. Boutique store, souvernirs, perfumes, jewelry.

Handcraft your very own scent inspired by the Caribbean. This unique experience is the #1 Tripadvisor land activity. This place is scentsational!

Rum Gouverneur - St. Martin Aged XO Rum - 10 Years Aged in French Cul de Sac - Rum Tour I

Visit the aging room in French Cul de Sac, learn how it’s made and get a free taste from this quality local rum before taking home a bottle.

Inspired Selfie - Wedding Pictures, Photography, Best Selfie, Social Media Profile Picture in Cole Bay, Sint Maarten I

Everyone wants to be a social media star. Bring your photography to the next level, Inspired Selfie in Cole Bay can make anyone an influencer.

Le Comptoir de Fromages - Best European Cheese, French Cheese Store & Tasting in Marigot I

A hand-picked selection of unique, high-quality Goat, Sheep & Cow cheeses from small farms across Italy, the Netherlands, and mainly France.

Amuseum Naturalis Intro - Amuseum Naturalis: Free museum about the nature and heritage of St. Martin - Saint Martin - St. Maarten - Sint Maarten, Quartier d’Orleans.

Amuseum Naturalis is a very charming free museum highlighting the nature and heritage of St. Martin. Learn what makes this island so special and unique!

Activity - Sint Maarten Nectar Natural Product making classes - 100% Natural Soaps, Lotions, Candles.

Experience first hand how to make 100% natural, eco-friendly, and pure plant-based products with zero preservatives!

Other unique locations to eat closeby Philipsburg area, you might need a taxi.

Freedom Fighters Ital Shack - Best Vegan in SXM, St Maarten Vegetarian Restaurant in Philipsburg I

Serving home-cooked vegan meals with ingredients mostly grown from the SXM’s soil. Ital shack is helping people cleanse their bodies for decades.

Carl and Sons Bakery - Breakfast & Lunchroom in Philipsburg - Cole Bay - Locally Made Food

Carl & Sons Bakery | The local’s choice for fresh loaves of bread, sandwiches, cakes, patties and lots more, breakfast/lunch Café in Philipsburg and Cole Bay.

Pollos Hermanos location Simpson Bay St. Maarten- South American-Venezuela influenced Restaurant: Best Rottiserie chicken, Wraps, Burgers, Enchilada, Patacones, Quesadillas, Cassave, Milkshakes, Desserts.

Located in Simpson Bay serves Rotisserie chicken and South American delicacies such as Enchilada, Patacones, Quesadillas, Wraps & Burgers.

Fat Boy Jimmy's - Caribbean BBQ Grill Restaurant, Pondfill, Philipsburg. Best Local food on SXM

The Original Fat Boy Jimmy’s in Philipsburg – One of the island’s best Roadside BBQ grills for authentic Caribbean dishes, try the real Local flavors and fare!

Newa Chopstix Philipsburg - Himalayan Restaurant -Location Philipsburg - Front Street St Maarten - Lunch or Dinner in the Capital - Authentic Nepalese, Indo-Chinese, Newari, Thai.

Newa Chopstix in Philipsburg: Addictive Asian Fusion food with unique Himalaya mountain herbs and spices. Best Indian | Nepalese restaurant on SXM!

Top Spots to visit in Sint Maarten | Saint Martin – request when booking a tour!

We Are! SXM
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