Saint Martin Cruises

Saint Martin, an alluring Caribbean island, is split into two distinct territories: the Dutch side and the French side, each offering unique culture and experiences. This tropical paradise is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional dining scene, particularly its reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Fun fact: Saint Martin boasts 37 beautiful beaches, each with its own charm and splendour! A cruise through Saint Martin enables you to soak in the breathtaking coastal views, engage with the local culture, and enjoy the island’s world-famous hospitality—all in one unforgettable journey.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Saint Martin

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 8 dedicated to itineraries that include Saint Martin. The Enchanted Princess and Grand Princess are particularly special, featuring luxurious amenities and a variety of entertainment options like live shows and themed dining experiences. With beautiful staterooms and refined service, these ships ensure a delightful cruising experience. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, providing convenient access for embarking on your Caribbean adventure.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises has a fleet of 29 ships, with 5 focusing on routes to Saint Martin. The Rhapsody of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas are noteworthy for their thrilling onboard activities, including rock climbing walls and mini-golf courses. These family-friendly ships promise a fun-filled experience, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Departures most frequently occur from Miami or San Juan, making it easy to set sail for this enchanting island.
• Carnival Cruise Line includes a fleet of 27 ships, with 2 dedicated to visits to Saint Martin. The Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa are favourites for their vibrant atmosphere and casual dining options. These ships hold exciting entertainment offerings, including stage shows and themed parties, perfect for those seeking a lively cruise. Most departures are from Sydney or Brisbane, providing great access to this captivating destination.
• Celebrity Cruises operates a fleet of 16 vessels, with 2 dedicated to Saint Martin itineraries. The Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice are exceptional choices, famous for their modern design and exceptional dining options celebrating local flavours. Cruisers can appreciate the luxurious environment and delightful service on board. These cruises typically depart from Miami or Honolulu, setting the stage for a splendid Caribbean adventure.
• Holland America Line features 11 ships, of which 5 sail to Saint Martin. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam provide a refined cruising experience with intimate dining and cultural enrichment programs. Departures commonly occur from Fort Lauderdale or Boston, allowing for easy embarkation into a delightful Caribbean getaway on this beautiful island.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 4 focused on itineraries to Saint Martin. The Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward are renowned for their intimate atmosphere and immersive destination experiences, allowing guests to experience local culture during extended port stays. Departures typically take place from Miami or Barbados, facilitating seamless access to the enchanting sights of the island.
• Seabourn consists of a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 1 offering itineraries to Saint Martin. The Seabourn Ovation stands out for its all-inclusive luxury experience and spacious suites, providing unparalleled service and amenities. Most departures occur from Barbados or Saint Martin, ensuring an elegant start to your exploration of this beautiful region.
• Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 2 sailing to Saint Martin. The Insignia and Allura deliver exceptional dining experiences and elegant surroundings, perfect for discerning travellers. Departures most frequently occur from Miami or Boston, delivering a luxurious experience as you journey through the Caribbean.
• Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 3 dedicated to visiting Saint Martin. The Borealis and Bolette provide a classic cruising experience with a personal touch, perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Liverpool, allowing for smooth transitions into the tropical paradise of Saint Martin for UK cruisers.

Top Harbours to Discover in Saint Martin

• Philipsburg – The Dutch capital is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant duty-free shopping district. Enjoy sunbathing on Great Bay Beach or indulge in shopping for souvenirs and local crafts along Front Street. Don’t miss trying the famous “guavaberry” liqueur at a local bar, a unique experience of the island’s culture!
• Marigot – The French side of the island, Marigot is known for its charming waterfront and delicious French cuisine. Visit the local market to sample fresh fruits and local treats, or dine at a café with views overlooking the harbour. Make sure to taste a classic French dish or a freshly baked croissant while you stroll through the boutiques.
• Orient Bay – This stunning beach destination is great for a day of relaxation and water sports. Rent a jet ski or go parasailing for an adrenaline rush, or simply lounge on the beach and enjoy a cocktail at one of the many beach bars. Sunset views from Orient Beach are breathtaking and shouldn’t be missed!
• Grand Case – Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Grand Case is the perfect place for food lovers. A stroll down “Restaurant Row” will introduce you to a myriad of dining options offering local flavours. Sample traditional Mahi Mahi or indulge in a fresh lobster dinner. You may also want to take a scenic walk to enjoy the sunset along the beach.
• Simpson Bay – With its stunning marinas and vibrant nightlife, Simpson Bay is a fantastic destination. Dive into the local scene by exploring the shops and enjoying a variety of nightlife options. If your ship docks in the evening, consider eating at a waterfront restaurant while listening to live music.

When to Cruise to Saint Martin

Saint Martin enjoys a warm climate year-round, making it a great cruise destination any time of year. From January to March, temperatures average around 24°C to 28°C with lower humidity, making it ideal for sunbathing and exploring. The spring months (April to June) see similar temperatures, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and local festivals. In the summer (July to September), temperatures rise to about 28°C to 32°C, which can be quite humid. However, this is also carnival season, so visitors can enjoy vibrant cultural celebrations. Finally, autumn (October to December) brings pleasant temperatures from 23°C to 29°C, making it a great time for scenery and relaxation as well.

Costs of Cruising to Saint Martin

Typically, a one-week cruise to Saint Martin costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and the chosen accommodations. Luxury cruises usually start at around £3,000, significantly increasing based on the level of service and amenities. When on the island, you can expect to spend about £10 to £30 for casual dining, while drinks can range from £3 to £10, allowing for a delightful gastronomic experience during your stay.

The beauty, culture, and charm of Saint Martin await you! Start planning your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st today to experience all the magical moments this vibrant island has to offer!