(Header photo courtesy of St. Eustatius Tourism Foundation)
Your Ideal Launchpad for Multi-Island Adventures
Dreaming of exploring more than one Caribbean Island in a single trip? You’re not alone. The thrill of discovering the region’s rich diversity—from rugged volcanic peaks to serene sandy shores—draws sailors, yachters, and cruise passengers from around the world. Each island in the Caribbean has its own unique identity: some are lush and tranquil, others lively with dining, shopping, and culture. All offer glimpses into the region’s layered colonial and post-colonial history and its vibrant multicultural blend.
No island is better positioned to help you experience this diversity than St. Maarten / St. Martin.
More than just a dual-nation destination, the island is a central hub for Caribbean travel—by sea and air. St. Maarten’s Airport welcomes travelers from across the globe and connects seamlessly to nearby islands. Ferries depart daily to many of St. Maarten’s neighbors, several of which are visible from its shores. And with well-equipped marinas hosting fleets of catamarans and tour boats, island hopping couldn’t be easier.
St. Maarten’s surrounding islands fall into two categories:
• Uninhabited escapes, perfect for beach days and snorkeling, and
• Inhabited destinations, each offering a distinct vibe and experience.
Just 7 kilometers away, Anguilla boasts some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches. It’s clearly visible from many parts of St. Martin. The easiest way to visit is by catamaran, which often includes bonus stops at pristine Dog Island or Prickly Pear. Ferries and short flights are also available.
A 50 km journey brings you to Saba, home to Mount Scenery—the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Known for lush rainforests and top-tier diving, this island lacks beaches but makes up for it with rugged natural beauty. High-speed ferries and daily flights make day trips accessible.
Another Dutch Caribbean municipality, Statia is rich in colonial history and volcanic terrain. It’s a diver’s paradise and a history buff’s dream. While ferries operate to the island, return trips require an overnight stay or a flight back.
Visible from St. Maarten’s eastern shores, St. Barth’s stylish island is a favorite among the international jet set. Ferries run daily from Marigot and Philipsburg, and frequent flights also connect the islands.
Although farther out, these twin-island nations are visible on the horizon. Ferries and flights connect St. Kitts & Nevis to St. Maarten, though a round-trip in one day often involves flying one way.
Once inhabited, Tintamarre island is now a haven for nature lovers. Its unspoiled beach and sea turtle sightings make it a popular stop on catamaran and motorboat tours.
Pinel island is a laid-back paradise known for its calm waters, beach bars, and excellent snorkeling. Reachable by tour or regular ferry service from Cul-de-Sac every 30 minutes.
Creole Rock is a top snorkeling site located just offshore from Grand Case, perfect for half-day water excursions.
If you are a sailor, the silent bay of Ile Fourchue in between of St. Barths and St. Maarten might appeal. As with Tintamarre and Pinel, it has a history of hermits and pirates.
Looking to expand your Caribbean journey? St. Maarten / St. Martin is a gateway to the wider region. Princess Juliana International Airport offers direct connections to Antigua, Curacao, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, St. Thomas, Tortola, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Haiti, and Puerto Rico, making multi-island itineraries easy to plan. You can start your trip on St. Maarten and continue to a completely different island—all within half a day’s travel.
Need local transport while you’re here? Our taxi, car rental and bus services make inter-island connections seamless.
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