One island, two countries, and some of the best duty-free shopping in the Caribbean! Sint Maarten is one of the most fascinating stops on this itinerary. The Dutch side is lively, colorful, and packed with shops and casinos, while a short taxi ride brings you to the French side with its Parisian cafes and a completely different vibe. It's like visiting two destinations in one day.

A Little History
The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak people, who called it Sualouiga, meaning "Land of Salt." Christopher Columbus spotted it on November 11, 1493, the feast day of Saint Martin of Tours, and gave it its name. The famous Treaty of Concordia (1648) divided the island between the Netherlands and France. Legend has it that a Frenchman and a Dutchman each walked from a single point in opposite directions to set the border. The Frenchman walked farther because he drank wine while the Dutchman drank gin, which is why France got the larger share!

Fun Facts

• Sint Maarten is known as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean," with the highest concentration of restaurants per capita in the region.
• Maho Beach is world-famous for jets passing so low overhead you can nearly reach up and touch them as they land at Princess Juliana Airport. A true bucket-list experience.
• Both US dollars and euros are widely accepted across the island.

Getting Around

• Currency: US dollars are accepted everywhere; the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) is the official Dutch side currency; euros on the French side.
• Language: Dutch and English on the Dutch side; French on the French side.
• Transportation: Taxis have fixed rates posted at the pier. Local buses run to the French side for just $1-2. A water taxi connects the pier to Great Bay Beach.

Top Things to Do

• Front Street, Philipsburg: The heart of the Dutch side, with duty-free jewelry, spirits, and perfume. One of the best duty-free ports in the entire Caribbean.
• Marigot, French Saint-Martin: Cross to the French side for open-air markets, charming cafes, and a relaxed elegance that feels a world away.
• Orient Bay: Called the "St. Tropez of the Caribbean," with turquoise water, beach clubs, and watersports on the French side.
• Maho Beach: Check flight schedules in advance to time your visit for a KLM 747 flyover. It's truly spectacular.
• Fort Amsterdam: Sint Maarten's oldest European structure (1631), with commanding views over Great Bay.

Beach Time

• Great Bay Beach is steps from the pier with calm water, chair rentals, and a lively boardwalk. Perfect for a quick swim.
• Mullet Bay is one of the island's most beautiful beaches, with calm turquoise water and dramatic green hills as a backdrop.
• Orient Bay on the French side is the go-to for watersports, beach clubs, and French Creole cuisine.

Where to Eat

• Enoch's Place: A beloved local spot for authentic island cooking. Cash only, no-frills, and extraordinary food.
• Karakter Beach Lounge: Trendy beach club on Simpson Bay with excellent cocktails, fresh seafood, and gorgeous sunset views.
• Toloula's (Marigot): Classic French Creole in an open-air setting. Try the grilled snapper with plantains.

Tips for Cruise Passengers

• You have a full day in port (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), so take advantage of it!
• Always agree on a taxi fare before getting in. Rates are fixed and posted at the pier.
• Duty-free shopping is exceptional here, especially for jewelry, electronics, and spirits. Compare prices between shops.
• Carry small bills. Many beach vendors and local spots don't make change easily.