Superyacht Charter St. Maarten

Marrying Dutch, French, Caribbean, and Creole cultures, the vibrant island of Sint Maarten has a lot to offer during a luxury crewed yacht charter.

The duality of St. Maarten makes it well suited for charter clients of all types, as the world’s smallest dual-nation really packs a punch. If you’re looking for an island holiday that offers it all, you’ll find it ashore here. The Dutch-governed south is known as Sint Maarten, whereas the French-governed north is referred to as Saint Martin. Together, the two halves create an island unlike any other in the Caribbean. Each has a distinct personality of their mother nation but with Caribbean charm. With various cultures, activities, and cuisine, the island of St Maarten has become a popular destination for the jet set, including luxury superyacht charters.

Setting off on your St. Maarten yacht charter  

St Maarten’s international airport and the island’s proximity to other Caribbean hot spots in the Leeward Islands, such as St. Barths and Anguilla, make it a fantastic location to commence a superyacht charter. 

Most superyachts will position themselves in Simpson Bay for embarkation, but if you plan to spend time on and around the island itself, many prefer Marigot Bay, a small town on the French half of the island. The town itself is filled with familiar French smells as the scent of fresh-baked bread and pastries wafts from the cafes and bistros.

If you want to enjoy a luxury St Martin yacht charter, the charter brokers at Northrop & Johnson can assist. We have the largest selection of yachts to charter in the Caribbean, including in St. Maarten, and can craft an incredible charter itinerary to meet your desired vacation experience. Contact our team today.

St Maarten’s beaches are spectacular

The beaches in St Maarten can only be described as paradise — all offer fine white sands and bright turquoise waters. On both sides of the island are countless, pristine beaches where you can enjoy lazing in the sunshine and enjoying the views; some even offer great snorkeling right off the shore. Numerous dive and snorkel sites around the island can be accessed via boat.

If you are searching for true paradise, look no further than a yacht charter in St. Maarten. Contact the charter experts at Northrop & Johnson to plan your luxury getaway and for the best selection of superyachts.

Get in touch with a yacht broker in the Leeward Islands

Northrop & Johnson is a leading international yacht brokerage with access to the best and most luxurious yachts for charter, including in the Leeward Islands. With offices in the heart of Miami, our yacht charter brokers boast unparalleled Leeward Islands expertise and market intelligence. We take pride in listening to our client’s needs and crafting exceptional charter itineraries in and around the Leeward Islands. Rent a superyacht in the Leeward Islands and enjoy the ultimate vacation on the water. Contact our yacht brokers in Miami today if you want to charter a luxury yacht in the Leeward Islands. We will be thrilled to assist you on your yachting journey, showing you the sample itinerary before creating a unique experience for you.

Other yacht charter destinations closest to the Leeward Islands

Charter Highlights St. Maarten

  • Saint Maarten/Saint Martin enjoys a tax-free status
  • The small off-lying island of Tintamarre has an idyllic beach and a mud bath
  • For the best kitesurfing and windsurfing spot, head for Orient Bay
  • For adrenaline fans, the Sint Maarten zip line is the world's steepest, dropping more than a thousand feet in elevation along 2,800 feet of cable and serving up spectacular views of the island the entire way down.
  • If you love golf, you'll find an 18-hole golf course at Mullet Bay
  • With 140 different nationalities, St. Maarten boasts a vibrant culinary scene
  • Lively nightlife and several casinos
  • The stunning azure blue waters surrounding St. Maarten make it a great destination for water sports and making the most of your private crewed yacht's tenders and water toys. St Martin also boasts some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
  • Live the adrenaline-filled experience of being pushed by the wind power to go to the windward islands and have a jet skiing experience
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St. Maarten Yacht Charter Itinerary

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For a full list of all available itineraries & excursions, or to chart your own course please inquire.

Best Yachts for Charter in St. Maarten

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Motor Yachts for Charter in St. Maarten

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Sailing Yachts for Charter in St. Maarten

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St. Maarten Yacht Charter FAQ

Why charter a private yacht in St. Maarten?

There are so many reasons why you should charter a private crewed yacht in St. Maarten! Some of the bluest waters in the Caribbean, a picturesque coastline, superb shopping, and a vibrant nightlife are just some of the reasons to embark on a St. Martin yacht charter. St. Maarten boasts some superb attractions to suit all, from its incredible zip-line to lush rainforests and its vibrant capital, a fantastic destination for designer shopping and gourmet dining options.  Finally, St. Maarten has very low VAT for visiting superyachts, adding to its appeal. 

What are the top attractions to explore while on a yacht charter in St. Maarten?

Part of St. Maarten’s wide appeal is that it offers a wonderful selection of things to see and do.

Explore Grande Case

Visit Grande Case on the northern coast, and you’ll find a charming historic fishing village that is more West Indian in style. Pick up some artisanal keepsakes in the local boutiques as a reminder of your visit, or enjoy a beverage or meal at one of the local bars or restaurants with stunning views.

Visit Philipsburg

St Maarten’s capital, Philipsburg, is a colorful hub where most of the island’s designer stores are found. It is a great place to pick up a few chic pieces before leaving the island.

Experience The Saint Maarten Zip-Line

For adrenaline seekers, the St. Maarten zip-line, on the island’s Dutch side, is considered one of the island’s top attractions. Enjoy the hair-raising experience of dropping 1,050-feet through the rainforest while enjoying incredible panoramic views.

Superb Dining & Nightlife

There are 140 different nationalities residing on the island, and unsurprisingly this has garnered an international mix of cuisines and flavors. Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is often described as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, and a handful of fine-dining restaurants can boast Michelin stars. Enjoy European food with a fusion of Caribbean flavors. After dinner, St. Maarten continues to deliver with exuberant night spots and several casinos.

Wreck Diving

There’s no better destination to explore the underwater world than St. Martin, which boasts superb visibility and vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks teeming with marine life. HMS Proselyte is one of the best wreck dives, a Royal Navy frigate that sunk in 1801, which sits in water just 15 meters deep.

What's better - a St. Maarten or St. Barths yacht charter?

Whether you prefer a St. Maarteen or St. Barts yacht charter will depend on your desired charter vacation experience. St. Barts is often referred to as the St. Tropez of the Caribbean, offering exclusive experiences and an ultra-chic atmosphere. St. Maarten, on the other hand, is more low-key yet still offers plenty of refined experiences. An experienced charter expert, such as the team at Northrop & Johnson, will be able to advise on what Caribbean destination will best suit your needs based on your desired getaway.

 

What type of yacht should I charter in St. Maarten?

Your choice of yacht that you charter in St. Maarten will be based on your unique personal preferences, the onboard amenities you desire, as well as how many guests you will be traveling with. Key choices to consider include:

  • Motor yacht – great for large family groups that want to maximize onboard amenities. Motor yachts are also more accessible, with some including lifts to all decks. Northrop & Johnson boasts an incredible selection of motor yachts available for charter, from 30-meters to 100-meters plus. Choose from luxury motor yachts by pedigree shipbuilders and an incredible range of onboard facilities, from luxury cinema rooms to helipads and full-service spas.
  • Sailing yachts – the vessel of choice for sailing enthusiasts; hoist up the sails and enjoy cruising St. Maarten’s coastline while hearing only the sound of the wind in the sails and the Caribbean Sea lapping at the boat’s hull. St. Martin boats excellent trade winds, making it a popular sailing destination. Sailing yachts are also popular with those seeking an eco-friendly cruising option.
  • Mulit-hull vessels – catamarans are the most readily available multi-hull boats on the charter market, which can sometimes include options for sailing and fuel-based cruising. Multi-hull vessels boast superb volume, making them great for families or large groups of friends. Their exceptional sea-keeping abilities also ensure enhanced comfort levels.

What should I pack for a yacht charter in St. Maarten?

Your luxury yacht will come fully equipped and provisioned, meaning you only need to worry about personal items. The weather is wonderfully warm in St. Maarten, so light-weight clothing is required, along with swim gear and sun protection. Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need to pack for your St. Martin charter vacation:

  • Travel documents – passport/visas/insurance details/debit and credit cards
  • Clothing – lightweight, breathable apparel, including shorts, t-shirts, and swim gear for swimming and lounging dockside or on the beach. Don’t forget suitable footwear, including a sturdy pair of trainers for hiking and flip-flops or sandals for on-shore activities.
  • Sun protection – the Caribbean sun is strong, so you’ll need plenty of SPF protection, including waterproof suncream, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a rash vest for prolonged periods in the water.
  • Toiletries and medications – you’ll need to pack your preferred toiletries along with any prescription medications. Due to the sun, a quality after-sun lotion can help soothe sunburnt skin.
  • Entertainment – most charter yachts boast state-of-the-art entertainment systems and board games, but you’ll likely want to pack a couple of your favorite books, a Kindle, your phone, and iPad. Don’t forget your chargers!

If you forget something, then you don’t need to worry. St. Maarten boasts plenty of shops for supplies. Your crew will also be happy to pop ashore and purchase any essential items you have forgotten, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your yacht charter rental.

What type of yacht should I charter in St. Maarten?

Your choice of yacht that you charter in St. Maarten will be based on your unique personal preferences, the onboard amenities you desire, as well as how many guests you will be traveling with. Key choices to consider include:

  • Motor yacht – great for large family groups that want to maximize onboard amenities. Motor yachts are also more accessible, with some including lifts to all decks. Northrop & Johnson boasts an incredible selection of motor yachts available for charter, from 30-meters to 100-meters plus. Choose from luxury motor yachts by pedigree shipbuilders and an incredible range of onboard facilities, from luxury cinema rooms to helipads and full-service spas.
  • Sailing yachts – the vessel of choice for sailing enthusiasts; hoist up the sails and enjoy cruising St. Maarten’s coastline while hearing only the sound of the wind in the sails and the Caribbean Sea lapping at the boat’s hull. St. Martin boats excellent trade winds, making it a popular sailing destination. Sailing yachts are also popular with those seeking an eco-friendly cruising option.
  • Mulit-hull vessels – catamarans are the most readily available multi-hull boats on the charter market, which can sometimes include options for sailing and fuel-based cruising. Multi-hull vessels boast superb volume, making them great for families or large groups of friends. Their exceptional sea-keeping abilities also ensure enhanced comfort levels.

What's the best time to visit St Maarten aboard a luxury yacht?

The Caribbean superyacht season typically runs from November to the end of April, with peak season being the months of December and January. The shoulder season, April/May and November, are also a great time to visit. The low season is the Caribbean hurricane season, which runs from June to November. While the weather is still pleasant, you can expect higher rainfall, a more humid temperature, and a heightened risk of hurricanes.

High Season (December to March)

The superyacht high season in St. Maarten coincides with the winter months when the weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C). This is the peak tourist season, so the island can be crowded, and yacht charter prices will be at their most expensive. This period is ideal for those seeking a balance between great weather and a lively atmosphere.

Shoulder Season (May and November)

May and November are considered the shoulder seasons, so you may be able to find competitively priced charters, especially for last-minute getaways. The weather is still pleasant, but there may be occasional rain showers, especially in November.

Low Season (June to October)

St. Maarten experiences its low season during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November, with the peak hurricane season being August and October. If you choose to visit during the low season, your yacht charter specialist will track the weather, and there may be a risk of your charter being cancelled in the event of a hurricane.

No matter when you choose to visit St. Maarten, you will enjoy wonderfully warm weather, making it a great destination for enjoying time on the water under the Caribbean sun.

Where should I embark on my charter yacht in St. Maarten?

There are several marinas and harbors in St. Maarten where you can embark on your luxury yacht charter. These include:

  • Simpson Bay Marina
  • Port de Plaisance Marina
  • Oyster Pond Marina
  • Marigot Bay Marina

Your yacht charter specialist will make arrangements for you to embark at the most convenient destination.

How much is a St. Maarten yacht charter?

The cost of a luxury crewed yacht charter in St. Martin will depend on several factors, including your choice of charter yacht, the length of the yacht rental, and whether you are chartering in peak season or low season. The choice of yacht will significantly impact the total cost, with the world’s largest superyachts costing in excess of US$1 million per week. The entry price point for a private yacht charter in St. Maarten is around $50,000, plus applicable VAT. On top of this charter price, you can also expect to pay a further estimated 10% to cover the Advanced Provisioning Allowance or APA, which covers non-fixed costs, including fuel, provisioning, excursions, and crew tips.

What's the VAT for chartering a yacht in St. Maarten?

There is almost no VAT to pay on a yacht charter in St. Maarten, adding to its allure. Other Caribbean destinations which boast low tax for visiting superyachts include St. Barts and the Virgin Islands.

What are some nearby islands to St. Martin?

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