Self-Drive Boat Tour & Snorkel With Caribbean Lunch From Simpson Bay

Exploring the stunning Simpson Bay lagoon in your own mini-speedboat is an adventure like no other. You’ll navigate the serene waters, passing the iconic Dutch Causeway Bridge and marveling at planes landing on the nearby runway. But the experience doesn’t end there. Dive into the vibrant marine life with provided snorkeling gear, then savor a delicious Caribbean lunch at a local restaurant. With knowledgeable guides and all necessary equipment on hand, this self-drive boat tour and snorkeling excursion promises an unforgettable day on the water. What awaits you, however, is a true test of your sense of exploration and discovery.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Lunch Experiences In St Maarten.

Key Points

• Self-guided mini-speedboat tour exploring Simpson Bay Lagoon, with opportunity to observe planes on the nearby runway.
• Snorkeling activity to see the vibrant marine life, with equipment provided.
• Caribbean lunch served at a local restaurant, enhancing the overall experience.
• Tour is accessible for wheelchair users and service animals, with public transportation options available.
• $6 per person fee for marine, dockage, and snorkeling activities is collected on the tour day.

Tour Overview

Offering a self-guided boating adventure and snorkeling experience, this tour allows visitors to explore the picturesque Simpson Bay Lagoon in mini speedboats.

Participants can sail past the Dutch Causeway Bridge and catch glimpses of planes landing on one of the world’s shortest runways.

The tour also includes snorkeling to observe the vibrant marine life.

Capping off the excursion is a tasty Caribbean lunch served at a local restaurant.

With a badge of excellence and strong reviews, this tour provides an opportunity to discover the natural beauty and unique sights of Sint Maarten from the water.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, guiding, and transportation, making for a hassle-free experience.

Inclusions

This tour includes a local guide to provide commentary and the use of Rhino Rider mini-speedboats for the self-guided portion.

Snorkel equipment, such as masks, snorkels, and noodles, as well as life jackets, are provided for the snorkeling activity.

Fuel, a Caribbean-style lunch, and bottled water are covered in the tour price. Gratuities and hotel pickup and drop-off are also included, making this an all-inclusive experience.

However, any additional alcoholic beverages purchased at the restaurant must be paid for separately, as the hotel is cash-only for extras.

Plus, there’s a $6 per person fee for marine, dockage, and snorkeling activities.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Self-Drive Boat Tour & Snorkel is at Rhino Mini-Speed Boat Snorkeling Tours SXM, located at 58 Welfare Rd in Cole Bay, Sint Maarten. The activity ends back at the same meeting point after the tour.

Guests will meet their local guide and receive their Rhino Rider, snorkel equipment, noodles, and life jackets before embarking on the adventure. The tour departs from this convenient location, ensuring a seamless start and end to the excursion.

Participants will have confirmation of their booking prior to the tour, and the activity is accessible for wheelchair users and service animals. The meeting point is also near public transportation for added convenience.

Accessibility and Participation

Participants can receive confirmation of their booking prior to the tour, and the activity is wheelchair accessible with service animals allowed.

The meeting point is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for travelers. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the nature of the activities involved.

The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. It’s important to note the $6 per person marine, dockage, and snorkeling fee that will be collected on the day of the tour.

Positive Reviews

Overwhelmingly, guests have praised the knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary and ensure a memorable experience during the Self-Drive Boat Tour & Snorkel.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise in pointing out interesting sights and marine life, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.

Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the lagoon at their own pace in the mini speedboats, while the snorkeling excursion allows them to observe the vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Travelers also commend the hearty Caribbean lunch, which complements the aquatic adventure perfectly.

Concerns About Tour

While the majority of reviews praise the tour’s highlights, some guests have raised a few concerns.

Accessibility and transportation costs seem to be areas that could use improvement. Some travelers noted that the meeting point location, while conveniently located, could be challenging for those without their own transportation.

Plus, the $6 per person marine, dockage, and snorkeling fee, while reasonable, may add up for larger groups. A few reviewers also expressed disappointment that the restaurant operates on a cash-only basis for additional purchases.

Host Responses to Complaints

The tour operator has generally been responsive to guest complaints, often offering explanations or solutions to address concerns.

For instance, they’ve acknowledged the cash-only policy at the restaurant and suggested that participants bring sufficient cash for any additional purchases.

Plus, the operator has emphasized the availability of public transportation options near the meeting point to help mitigate accessibility issues for those without their own vehicle.

When it comes to refunds or changes to the tour options, the operator has stated they’ll assess each situation individually and work to find a fair resolution.

Booking and Contact

Booking the self-drive boat tour and snorkel excursion can be done through the tour operator’s website or by contacting them directly. Customers have the option to reserve their spot online, which provides instant confirmation, or reach out to the company via phone or email to inquire about availability and make a booking. The tour’s meeting point is at Rhino Mini-Speed Boat Snorkeling Tours SXM in Cole Bay, Sint Maarten, and the activity ends back at the same location.

Booking Options	Contact Information	Additional Details
Online Booking	Phone: +1 (721) 544-4522	Instant Confirmation
Direct Inquiry	Email: [email protected]	Availability Check
Call the Company	Address: 58 Welfare Rd, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten	Meeting Point

Frequently Asked Questions

How Experienced Do I Need to Be to Operate the Boat?

The boat tour is guided, so no prior boating experience is required. The local guide provides instruction and supervision throughout the tour, ensuring participants can operate the boat safely even without any previous experience.

Are There Age or Height Restrictions for the Snorkel Activity?

There are no age or height restrictions for the snorkel activity, but participants must be able to swim. The snorkel equipment and life jackets are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, guests can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator allows for customizable options to accommodate travelers’ preferences and needs. Inquire directly with the operator about extending the tour and associated costs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Large Groups or Families?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for large groups and families. Customers can inquire about group pricing when booking. Discounts may be available for parties of 6 or more. However, specific discount amounts are not provided in the tour details.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time for the Tour?

Yes, you can request a specific departure time for the tour. The tour provider is generally accommodating of guest requests, subject to availability. It’s best to make the request when booking to ensure the preferred time is reserved.

Recap

The self-drive boat tour and snorkeling adventure in Simpson Bay offers an exciting way to explore the stunning lagoon at your own pace.

With included snorkeling gear, Caribbean lunch, and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable day on the water.

Participants can navigate mini-speedboats, see planes landing, and discover vibrant marine life, making it a comprehensive and practical experience for visitors.