Explore the Vibrant Wonders of Saint Martin on Your Next Cruise
Welcome to Saint Martin, a captivating Caribbean island that seamlessly blends French and Dutch cultures, offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Saint Martin is an idyllic cruise destination. Fun fact: Saint Martin is known for having the world's shortest commercial runway, located just above Maho Beach, where planes land just meters above sunbathers! Cruising to Saint Martin allows you to immerse yourself in this multicultural paradise, discovering spectacular landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Top Major Cruise Lines to Saint Martin
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Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess boasts 12 ships—Royal Princess, Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess, Emerald Princess, Sky Princess, Crown Princess, Ruby Princess, Majestic Princess, Dawn Princess, Golden Princess, Sapphire Princess, and Caribbean Princess—that visit Saint Martin. Known for their exceptional dining options and engaging onboard activities, Princess Cruises ensures guests have a memorable experience at sea and ashore. Departures mostly come from international ports such as Fort Lauderdale, giving cruisers an easy route to this magnificent island.
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Royal Caribbean: With a fleet of 30, Royal Caribbean has an impressive 18 ships—Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and more—offering itineraries that include stops in Saint Martin. Renowned for their innovative ships and onboard entertainment, Royal Caribbean offers a thrilling cruise experience. Departures occur from major international ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, making it easy for cruisers to embark on their journey.
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Cunard: Operating a fleet of 4, Cunard comprises 3 ships—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—that offer itineraries visiting Saint Martin. Famous for their classic ocean liner experience and attention to detail, Cunard ensures an elegant cruise experience overflowing with refinement. Departures generally happen from international ports like Southampton, allowing cruisers to find their way to the Caribbean smoothly.
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P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of 7, P&O includes 5 ships—Azura, Britannia, Iona, Ventura, and Arcadia—that visit Saint Martin. Known for their welcoming atmosphere and relaxing environment, P&O creates enjoyable cruising experiences perfect for families and individuals alike. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Southampton and Sydney, providing easy access to Saint Martin's beauty.
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MSC Cruises: A significant cruise line with a fleet of 24, MSC offers 6 ships—MSC Virtuosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, and MSC Orchestra—that feature itineraries to Saint Martin. Renowned for their family-friendly atmosphere and incredible onboard amenities, MSC delivers memorable experiences for guests. Departures usually take place from major international ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, ushering cruisers to the stunning Caribbean.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Saint Martin
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Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 3 ships—Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, and Azamara Onward—that offer itineraries including visits to Saint Martin. Famous for their immersive cultural experiences and longer port stays, Azamara allows guests to fully explore local life. Departures typically take place from international ports such as Bridgetown and San Juan, ensuring smooth sailing to Saint Martin.
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Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of 2, Explora offers both ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—that travel to Saint Martin. Known for their focus on transformative experiences, Explora’s luxurious ships invite guests to delve into the culture and beauty of every destination. Departures commonly occur from international ports like Miami and Bridgetown, making it convenient for cruisers eager to experience Saint Martin.
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Viking Ocean Cruises: Comprising a fleet of 11, Viking has 3 ships—Viking Sea, Viking Sky, and Viking Star—that include itineraries to Saint Martin. Viking specializes in enriching exploration and cultural immersion, ensuring guests get the most from their journey. Departures usually occur from international ports like San Juan or Barcelona, giving cruisers easy access to this breathtaking destination.
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania features 5 ships—Insignia, Nautica, Marina, Riviera, and Sirena—that sail to Saint Martin. Known for exceptional dining and intimate onboard experiences, Oceania provides a luxurious cruising option for guests looking to immerse themselves in local culture. Most departures occur from international ports like Miami or Rio de Janeiro, ensuring a smooth trip to Saint Martin.
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Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea offers 4 ships—Silver Spirit, Silver Shadow, Silver Dawn, and Silver Moon—that include itineraries to Saint Martin. Known for their all-inclusive luxury and personalized service, Silversea crafts bespoke experiences tailoured to discerning cruisers' needs. Departures typically occur from ports like Bridgetown and Fort Lauderdale, paving the road for a stunning Caribbean adventure.
Must-Visit Harbours in Saint Martin
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Philipsburg: The capital city of Sint Maarten is a vibrant port town teeming with shopping options, delightful dining, and stunning beaches. When your cruise docks, take a stroll along Front Street for duty-free shopping, or soak up the sun on Great Bay Beach. The historical Fort Amsterdam is nearby and offers fascinating insights into the island's past while providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
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Orient Bay: Known for its beautiful beach and lively atmosphere, Orient Bay is perfect for sun seekers! Enjoy world-class beach clubs, indulge in water sports such as jet-skiing or parasailing, or simply relax with a refreshing cocktail while soaking up the sun. This beach is often bustling with activity, making it an ideal spot for fun and relaxation alike.
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Marigot: The French capital of the island offers a charming intimate experience. Explore the delightful boutiques, stroll through the marina, and taste local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants. Be sure to visit the historic Fort Louis for captivating views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
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Grand Case: Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Grand Case is a must-visit for food lovers. While in port, indulge in delightful dining options ranging from local Creole fare to high-end gourmet cuisine. Explore the picturesque beach while enjoying the local ambiance or participate in the Thursday night street fair for a lively atmosphere with music and delicious treats.
Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Saint Martin
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San Juan, Puerto Rico: Often included in itineraries to Saint Martin, San Juan is known for its colorful colonial architecture, historical sites, and stunning beaches. Guests can explore Old San Juan, visit El Morro Fortress, and enjoy delicious local cuisine at popular restaurants throughout the city.
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Bridgetown, Barbados: A frequent stop on cruises heading to Saint Martin, Bridgetown offers a rich history and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, relax on picturesque beaches, or enjoy local delicacies at nearby eateries.
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Philipsburg, Sint Maarten: As frequent visitors to Saint Martin often visit Philipsburg, this vibrant town presents shopping, dining, and fun-filled beach experiences. Visitors can wander along the beachfront shops, visit historical sites, or simply lounge along the stunning coastline.
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Antigua: Known for its idyllic beaches and stunning landscapes, Antigua is often a port before reaching Saint Martin. Visitors can enjoy lovely water activities, explore the charming gated community of Nelson's Dockyard, or relax on one of the island's stunning beaches.
Best Times to Cruise to Saint Martin
The optimal time to cruise to Saint Martin is typically from December to April, when temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, providing ideal weather for exploration, sunbathing, and outdoor activities across the island. This dry season features sunny days, making it pleasant for various adventures. However, visiting during the rainy season from May to November can offer lower prices and fewer crowds, but be prepared for occasional rain showers and higher humidity. In this period, it's still warm, making it a lovely option for those who enjoy lush, green scenery.
Costs of Cruising to Saint Martin
A typical one-week cruise to Saint Martin usually starts at around $1,800, while a two-week itinerary may cost approximately $3,500. For those seeking a luxury experience, prices generally begin around $6,000 for one week. Dining on the island can vary, with meals typically costing between $15 and $60, while drinks may range from $5 to $12, allowing you to indulge in the vibrant culinary scene while exploring.
Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise
If the allure of Saint Martin has captured your interest, consider these enticing alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:
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Antigua: Known for its stunning coastline and rich maritime history, Antigua offers crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing.
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Saint Kitts and Nevis: A blend of adventure and relaxation, this twin-island nation features beautiful scenery, lush landscapes, and historical sites that will appeal to all types of travellers.
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Saint Lucia: Famed for its stunning Pitons and volcanic beaut, Saint Lucia offers a mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and incredible views that are simply unforgettable.
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British Virgin Islands: Known for beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and sailing opportunities, the British Virgin Islands are an excellent choice for those looking for calm waters and tranquility.
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Dominican Republic: Bursting with diverse landscapes, historic sites, and beautiful beaches, the Dominican Republic offers vibrant culture and adventure for cruisers seeking excitement.
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Saint Martin? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and prepare to experience the magic that awaits you in this fantastic destination!