St. Maarten Travel Agent Resources
As one of the Caribbean’s best-known destinations, St. Maarten and Saint Martin attract travelers seeking resorts, boutique hotels, private villas, cruise visits, sailing and yachting adventures, culinary experiences, and activities on land.Its two distinct cultures, varied culinary scene, beautiful beaches, and wide range of activities offer a distinctive Caribbean experience on one island.
For travel agents and travel advisors, the offer is as wide and satisfying for clients, as it is multifaceted. Understanding the island’s diversity is essential to recommending the right experiences. Below travel agents can find resources, tips and answers to frequently asked questions by clients.
Why sell St. Maarten?
Few Caribbean destinations offer as much variety within such a compact area. With 37 beaches, green hills, diverse communities, and two distinct cultural identities, St. Maarten and Saint Martin offer something for many types of travelers.
Five reasons to recommend the island:
- Two countries, diverse cultures: The Dutch and French sides offer distinct cultural experiences, shaped by their heritage and the many communities that call the island home.
- A longstanding tradition of hospitality: An established tourism industry offers accommodation and experiences for a wide range of travelers.
- A diverse culinary destination:French cuisine combines with Caribbean and international influences, creating a varied dining scene. The island also offers a wide selection of beverages and duty-free shopping.
- A wide range of activities: Beaches, sailing, water sports, snorkeling, shopping, nightlife, and inland excursions offer plenty to explore.
- A gateway to island-hopping: Regional flights and ferry connections provide opportunities to visit neighboring Caribbean islands.
Connect with St. Maarten hotels, resorts, and activities
From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to sailing adventures, culinary experiences, and vibrant nightlife, the island offers options for different travel styles and budgets. Here are some instruments to connect to island counterparts in the tourism industry:
SMART: St. Maarten and Saint Martin Regional Tradeshow
SMART is an annual tourism trade event connecting travel professionals with hotels, tour operators, tourism organizations, and other industry partners from St. Maarten, Saint Martin, and the wider Caribbean.
The event provides opportunities to discover tourism products, establish business relationships, and learn about destinations and experiences. Travel agents and tour operators can contact us to ask about joining the mailing list for updates on upcoming events, destination news, and travel trade opportunities.
SHTA Hotel & Tourism Factsheet Book
The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) represents businesses across the island’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Its Hotel & Tourism Factsheet Book provides useful destination research and information, tourism industry contacts, supplier details, and selling points for travel professionals.
For additional information or assistance connecting with local businesses, travel agents can contact SHTA directly.
Travel agent discounts
Some hotels, resorts, tour operators, and activity providers offer special rates or other benefits to eligible travel professionals to explore the island on your own.
Requirements vary by provider. Some may require valid IATA or CLIA identification, while others may have different eligibility criteria. Contact individual businesses to confirm current offers, requirements, and booking conditions.
Planning a trip for a client? Essential information
One island, two countries
St. Maarten is the Dutch side of the island, while Saint-Martin is the French side. The two sides have an open border, allowing visitors to travel between them without routine border checkpoints. Occasional controls may take place.
Different administrative arrangements
The French side is part of France and the European Union. Sint Maarten is a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and has a different relationship with the European Union. Entry requirements depend on travelers’ nationality and circumstances. Clients should check official requirements before departure.
International flights and entry requirements
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), located on the Dutch side, serves as the island’s main international airport.
Travelers arriving by air or yacht should check current ED card entry procedures and documentation requirements.
Choosing the right area to stay
The island offers lively resort districts, quiet beach communities, and residential areas suited to different types of travelers.
Popular accommodation areas on the Dutch side:
• Simpson Bay
• Pelican
• Maho
• Cupecoy
• Oyster Bay
• Philipsburg
Popular accommodation areas on the French side:
• Orient Bay
• Grand Case
• Marigot
• Nettle Bay and the Lowlands
Consider clients’ preferences for beaches, restaurants, nightlife, family activities, privacy, and transportation when recommending accommodation.
St. Maarten destination training for travel agents
Understanding the destination helps travel professionals recommend suitable accommodation, activities, and experiences.
St. Maarten and Saint Martin do not currently have a dedicated destination certification program for travel agents. However, travel agents can develop their knowledge through tourism resources, industry events, supplier presentations, and direct contact with local tourism partners. Tourism organizations, representatives, hotels, tour operators, and airline partners may offer training sessions and educational opportunities. We are happy to connect you.
Other travel resources
Group travel and events
Group travel is an important part of the island’s tourism industry. For group itineraries, destination weddings, and business events, explore our dedicated wedding and meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions resources.
Destination management companies
Destination management companies (DMCs) can assist with local arrangements, group itineraries, activities, and other destination services. Consult our DMC resources or the SHTA Hotel & Tourism Factsheet Book.
Accommodation and activities resources
Explore our dedicated resources for:
• Hotels and resorts
• Boutique hotels
• Villas and villa rental agencies
• Activities and things to do
• Land excursions and island tours
• Sailing and yacht charters
• Other water activities
• Resort day passes
• Itineraries to suggest
• Things to think of before departure
Cruise travel agent information
Most cruise ships visiting St. Maarten dock at the Philipsburg cruise port, with some smaller vessels using other arrangements.
Travel professionals can consult the cruise calendar for scheduled port calls and explore available shore excursions and activities near the cruise port.
When recommending excursions, consider travel time, activity duration, and the ship’s scheduled departure.
Familiarization trips for travel agents
Familiarization trips, commonly known as FAM trips, allow travel professionals to experience the destination, inspect accommodation properties, explore activities, and connect with local tourism suppliers. Programs may be organized by destination organizations, hotels, tour operators, airlines, or other industry partners. Availability and eligibility vary. Contact the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau at +1 721-549-0200 to inquire about potential opportunities, or contact tourism businesses directly. SMART may also offer opportunities to experience the destination and connect with local industry partners through associated events and activities.
Are you a hotel, tour operator, or tourism business?
Connect with travel professionals around the world
Travel agents can introduce your business to clients seeking Caribbean holidays, luxury accommodation, local experiences, and personalized itineraries.
We are exploring ways to help travel professionals discover tourism businesses across St. Maarten and Saint Martin.
Interested in being featured? Contact us to discuss potential inclusion in our tourism resources and opportunities to connect with travel professionals.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a St. Maarten destination specialist certification for travel agents?
This page does not currently list a dedicated St. Maarten destination specialist certification. Travel professionals can develop their destination knowledge through industry events, supplier training, and local tourism resources. Requirements for industry benefits vary by provider.
Can travel agents receive discounts in St. Maarten?
Yes. Many hotels, resorts, tour operators, and activity providers offer travel agent rates or other benefits. Eligibility and identification requirements vary, so agents should confirm the terms directly with each provider.
Does St. Maarten offer FAM trips for travel agents?
FAM trips may be organized by tourism organizations, hotels, tour operators, airlines, and other industry partners. Contact the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau or individual businesses to ask about upcoming opportunities.
Is St. Maarten suitable for luxury travel?
Yes. The destination offers luxury accommodation, private villas, yacht experiences, fine dining, and personalized activities. Suitable options depend on each client’s preferences and budget.
What is the difference between St. Maarten and Saint Martin?
Sint Maarten is the Dutch side of the island, while Saint-Martin is the French side. Together, they offer two distinct cultural experiences within one Caribbean destination. No side is “better”, but the choice depends entirely on your client’s area preferences.
