A popular sailing itinerary in and around St. Maarten typically includes visits to neighboring islands, beautiful beaches, and picturesque anchorages. Here’s a suggested one-week sailing itinerary for cruising St. Maarten and the Caribbean. Whether you are coming with your own boat, or looking at chartering a sailboat, this is the perfect way to spend your week!
Day 1: Departure from St. Maarten (Simpson Bay) Begin your sailing journey from Simpson Bay, a vibrant location brimming with top-notch services and provisioning options. Here, you can clear customs and immigration. Simpson Bay Lagoon offers a sheltered area with short dinghy rides to various businesses. Simpson Bay itself provides a calm anchorage most of the year, perfect for boat work during the day and enjoying delightful local restaurants and energetic nightlife in the evening, setting the perfect start to your Caribbean sailing adventure.
Day 2: St. Barthélemy (St. Barts) Sail a short 15 miles from St. Maarten to the enchanting capital of St. Barts, Gustavia. On windy days, the journey can be a bit challenging with some choppy waters. Upon arrival, the town’s charm beckons with high-end boutiques, quaint French cafes, rich historic sites, and the famous Cheeseburger in Paradise. A leisurely stroll leads you to Shell Beach, where you can unwind and take in the stunning views. As evening falls, anchor in the picturesque harbor or secure a spot at the dock (reservations required during high season), allowing the soothing ambiance of Gustavia to provide a perfect end to your day.
Day 3: Anse de Colombier (St. Barts) Sail to Anse de Colombier on the northwest tip of St. Barts for an unforgettable experience, accessible only by boat or a scenic hiking trail. Immerse yourself in the clear waters, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the pristine beach. Continue the adventure by staying overnight at anchor in this tranquil bay, surrounded by the serene beauty of the secluded anchorage.
Days 4 & 5: Anguilla Sail north to Anguilla, approximately 20 miles from St. Barts, for an exciting journey. Upon arrival at Road Bay (Sandy Ground), clear customs and explore the vibrant local area. Anchoring overnight in Road Bay allows you to soak in the laid-back atmosphere and enjoy the local eateries. Consider an overnight visit to Cove Bay to experience its stunning beaches and tranquil vibe, enhancing your adventure with picturesque scenery and serene surroundings. Don’t forget to return to Road Bay to clear out!
Day 6: Tintamarre and Grand Case (St. Maarten) Embark on a sail to Tintamarre, an uninhabited island off the northeast coast of St. Maarten, for an enchanting experience with excellent snorkeling and turtle spotting. From there, continue to Grand Case, a popular anchorage on the French side. Revel in the lively beach bars, shallow waters, and exceptional restaurants, adding a perfect culinary finale to your sailing journey.
Day 7: Return to St. Maarten (Simpson Bay) Spend a delightful morning in Grand Case, exploring its charming boutiques or relaxing on the beach. Then, sail back to Simpson Bay, completing your circuit. Cap off your sailing adventure with a final night in Simpson Bay, enjoying a celebratory dinner and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your journey.
Additional Tips
- Check Weather and Sea Conditions: The Caribbean weather can be unpredictable, so always check forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Customs and Immigration: Be aware of the customs and immigration requirements for each island you visit. Clearing procedures are straightforward but must be adhered to.
- Provisioning and Fuel: Stock up on provisions and fuel in St. Maarten, where facilities are extensive compared to some smaller islands.
This week-long sailing itinerary around St. Maarten provides a mix of bustling ports, quiet anchorages, and beautiful natural settings, offering a well-rounded sailing experience in the Caribbean.