Seaworld Explorer Tour (St. Maarten)

This 2.5-hour tour is the best way to see the aquatic life underwater without actually getting wet! ;) If you're not into scuba diving, this is the best option.

The tour starts with a 30-minute bus ride through the countryside, and the adventure begins upon reaching a quaint, unspoiled fishing village of Grand Case, located on the French side of the island. Grand Case might be partially hidden throughout its countryside, but it is a paradise due to its famous idyllic bay and restaurants. 

You'll then be stepping along the shore with crystalline waters and then board the semi-submersible SeaWorld Explorer,-considered to be a state of the art semi-submarine craft which was developed for use on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Once onboard, you will enjoy a 60-minute narrated tour, - first by looking at the scenic views while cruising through the harbor to the unique geological formations of Creole Rock, as the boat goes closer to it.

Creole Rock

Upon reaching close to the Creole Rock, you will descend into the hull of the boat which is 5 ft. below the water's surface, and comfortably be seated in an air-conditioned comfort while enjoying the last half part of the tour with the help of your tour guide.

In an instant, you will see yourself surrounded by the turquoise waters of the bay of Grand Case as you see the marine life through clear glass windows, observing the coral reefs that surrounds Creole Rock, the underwater gardens and colorful school of fish. If you would be lucky enough, you will also get the chance to see the fascinating green and moray eels!

As you witness and marvel this paradise below the water, a diver will swim by your window while he hand feeds and surrounds himself with clouds of brilliant-colored fish, so you could see them more up close. The diver will be swimming, leading these marine life alongside with him to the viewing chambers (all windows) as he shares the spectacle with you.

Some sea turtles, eels, stingrays and even barracudas can sometimes be around among the reefs, so keep an eye on them, as they can be quick to swim away if they get startled.

This is also a good tour where you can take tons of photos as you wish. If your camera can take excellent photos in an underwater scene, get the chance to sit beside the window! :)

The tour will end up as you go back up the boat deck while returning back to the shore of Grand Case.

St. Maarten Island Tour

I would definitely agree that St. Maarten is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Did you know that this island was mostly popular for salt? It was because during the 17th century when the Dutch settlers were still living in this island, they started to harvest salt from the Great Salt Pond where they export it back to Europe.

It was also during that time that the natives called the island "Land of Salt" or "Soualiga".

It's probably one of the reasons why they called the island "Land of Salt" because the Europeans started craving for salt, where they would rely on the place for getting salt, - a must have ingredient of food until today.

As you explore Philipsburg, the charming capital of St. Maarten, you'll be seeing the Dutch influences back to the colonial days, as you walk through the narrow roads with pastel-colored houses which are still intact. These houses still reflects the colonial architectural designs with 2nd storey verandas and flower-filled courtyards.

The St. Maarten Island Tour is one way of further exploring the area in order to visit the two-sides of the island; - the Dutch and the French sides.

You will also get the chance to explore more at Marigot, - the French capital, and Philipsburg, the Dutch capital. This is a great overview to see the uniqueness of these two islands!

This narrated, scenic tour ride will bring you to view the Great Salt Pond, and as you continue, you will see spectacular views of the Orient Beach and its neighboring islands. You will see more charming towns of Orleans as well as while you continue going your way, passing the lovely town of Grand Case going to Marigot (French side).

Once you reach Marigot, you will be allowed to explore both the outdoor markets and boutiques in the area. The outdoor markets are all around the Port of Marigot, and some boutiques across the street. You have 45 minutes of shopping. (not even enough time if you're a shopaholic! ;)).

On your way back to Philipsburg, you will see the monument that serves as a boundary separating the French and the Dutch sides of the island, then you will then have a 10-minute photo opportunity at the scenic International Look Out Point.

At the end of the tour, you'll have the option to stay a while at Philipsburg for more exploring and shopping, or return back to your ship right directly.

Just a note: - shops at Marigot are mostly closed during Sundays and holidays, so you might want to consider some other days for shopping other than those days.

FACT: St. Maarten/St. Martin is the world's smallest landmass governed by 2 nations - Netherlands & France!