Are you planning a St. Martin sailing trip or would you like to start your Caribbean sailing tour from here? St. Martin is a true Caribbean gem: the island’s specialty is that it has both a French and Dutch atmosphere, while the sea around it shines in dazzling shades of blue. St. Martin can be an ideal destination if you love a diverse environment and a unique cultural mix, as the island has something new to offer everyone. Sailing around the island, every bay and harbor shows a completely different face. This article is for those who are considering a sailing trip from St. Martin and want to embark on a Caribbean adventure prepared but focused on experience. We show you some of the featured sailing destinations around St. Martin, tailored to suit a variety of styles and preferences.
Here’s what the article will cover:
- What is the best month to sail St. Martin?
- 5 reasons, why St. Martin Island is good for sailing?
- How can you get to St. Martin Island from abroad?
- Where can you sail to from St. Martin Island? – ports and islands
- Sailing in St. Martin – itineraries
What is the best month to sail St. Martin Island?
December to May is generally the ideal time to sail, mainly due to reliable weather and pleasant winds. However, personal preferences, such as quieter periods or lower prices, may make other months more attractive. If you want to avoid the crowds but still want great conditions, March to May is the golden mean. September to November, on the other hand, is more for experienced sailors who don’t mind dealing with all the unpredictability of hurricane season.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is one of the most popular times to sail around St. Martin. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 25 degrees Celsius, and the trade winds blow reliably, usually at 12 to 20 knots. This is ideal: strong enough for dynamic, yet comfortable sailing. Be prepared for this peak season, meaning marinas and bays fill up quickly – it’s a good idea to book in advance if you want a secure berth.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is considered by many to be the best time of year. The weather is still sunny and dry, a little warmer, and winds range from 10 to 18 knots, perfect for calm, enjoyable sailing. Plus, there are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy popular spots like Simpson Bay or Orient Bay in a much more intimate setting. The water is also crystal clear – snorkeling is a wonder here.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is hotter and more humid, and the trade winds are weaker, around 8 to 15 knots. This is more of a time for calm, comfortable sailing than for racing. Short showers or quick storms can occur, but they usually pass quickly. If you like calm bays, warm waters and fewer boaters. Summer is a time for peaceful, comfortable sailing with fewer boats, warmer water, and calmer bays. However, you should also expect hot, humid weather and occasional weather disturbances.
Fall / Hurricane Season (September – November)
This period can be risky, as it is part of the Atlantic hurricane season. During this time, you can expect longer calm days, but tropical storms or even hurricanes can strike at any time. If you do sail in the fall, it is important to monitor weather forecasts, take out adequate insurance and choose ports that offer safety in case of storms. Many charter companies suspend operations during this period, and marinas also have limited service.
5 reasons, why St. Martin Island is good for sailing?
- Reliable trade winds
The northeast trade winds are generally reliable, especially between December and May, when there are steady, moderate winds. However, during the summer months, the winds can weaken, resulting in calmer sea conditions. This is exactly the kind of wind that makes sailing enjoyable and predictable: not too much, but not boring either. Beginners can feel safe, while experienced sailors can enjoy more vigorous sailing. - Beautiful bays and anchorages
Around the island, you will find peaceful, turquoise bays where you can anchor for the night. Marigot Bay, Orient Bay or Tintamarre all offer a different atmosphere: one with a bustling life, the other with untouched nature. This diversity means that you can always find the right destination, whether it’s a short day trip or a longer sea voyage. - Excellent marinas and services
St. Martin is a real center for sailors: Simpson Bay Lagoon is lined with world-class marinas, where you can find everything from supplies to boat repairs. You don’t have to worry about where to get anything you need for your trip. What’s more, the marinas are full of life – you can easily run into other boaters here and there is a good chance that you will make friends during an evening in port. Rent a yacht in St. Martin and explore the island’s most beautiful bays and coastline! - Unique cultural mix
St. Martin is special because it is both a French and a Dutch world. One day you can enjoy the flavors of French cuisine in Marigot, the next you can immerse yourself in the bustling life of the Dutch side in Philipsburg. This duality is a real plus for sailing – you can explore not only the sea, but also the local culture. - Nearby Islands
St. Martin is the perfect starting point for island hopping. Anguilla, St. Barths or even Saba are all within a few hours of sailing. You don’t have to take long, tiring journeys, but there are always new experiences waiting for you, even if you wake up on a different island every day.
How can you get to St. Martin Island from abroad?
If you want to get to St. Martin, fortunately, it is relatively easy, as the island has two international airports, and there are direct or connecting flights from most major cities.
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) – Dutch side
This is the main airport, and perhaps one of the most famous in the world, mainly due to the famous approach, when planes land almost over Maho Beach. Direct flights depart from here from North America (New York, Miami, Atlanta, Toronto) and Europe (Paris, Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt). Once you land, you can easily get to your hotel or port by taxi, bus or rental car.
L’Espérance Airport (SFG) – French side
This smaller airport mainly receives flights from nearby Caribbean islands, such as Guadeloupe, Martinique or Saint Barthélemy. If you are coming from the area, this option is really practical and fast.
Where can you sail to from St. Martin Island? – ports and islands
Simpson Bay Lagoon
Simpson Bay Lagoon is St. Martin’s main sailing hub, with marinas, restaurants and shops. It’s a good place to stock up on all your essentials before setting off to explore the surrounding islands. The lagoon’s calm waters make it a perfect place to practice or anchor for the night. You’ll feel the Caribbean vibe from the moment you step foot in it.
Marigot Bay
Marigot Bay, on the French side, is much more laid-back and charming. It’s home to colorful houses, local markets and cozy beachside cafes. The bay is sheltered, making it a safe place to anchor at night. If you enjoy strolling around the harbor and watching the world go by, you won’t be disappointed.
Orient Bay
Orient Bay is one of the island’s most famous beaches, with crystal-clear water and soft sand. An ideal anchorage for swimming, sunbathing or a nice restaurant lunch right on the shore. It can be a bit crowded in summer, but it is definitely worth a visit.
Tintamarre Island
Located near the French side, the uninhabited Tintamarre Island is a real little gem. The water is crystal clear and the coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling or diving. If you want a quiet, peaceful day on the boat, no one will bother you here.
Anguilla
Located about 20 km north of St. Martin, Anguilla is located. The island can be reached by sailing for a few hours and has beautiful, untouched beaches, such as those around Road Bay. It is perfect for a day trip or an overnight anchorage.
St. Barths
About 20-25 nautical miles southeast, St. Barths is an island of luxury and style, with sheltered bays, such as Gustavia Harbor. Here, you can enjoy sailing as well as a world of fine restaurants and boutiques. Its calm, clear waters make it ideal even for less experienced boaters.
Pinel Island
Pinel is a tiny island off the eastern tip of the island. Perfect for short excursions, shallow waters and sandy beaches. It’s a great place for a bit of snorkeling or a nice picnic in the sand.
Grand Case
Located on the north coast of the island, Grand Case is famous for its French-Caribbean cuisine and beautiful coastline. You can easily enjoy the local restaurants and relaxed atmosphere by anchoring nearby. It’s the perfect stop for a slow, leisurely day on the way back.
Sailing in St. Martin – itineraries
7 days St. Martin siling trip
Day 1: St Martin – Tintamarre
7 km (4 nm), sailing time: 1 hour You can take the first day easy: just a few miles, so you have time to get a taste of the Caribbean sailing atmosphere. Tintamarre is a small, uninhabited island, where the water is crystal clear, and the boat glides almost weightlessly between the coral reefs. It is worth going out into the water to snorkel, the schools of fish and the colorful coral world are simply stunning.
Day 2: Tintamarre – St Barth, L’Anse de Colombier
25 km (13 nm), sailing time: 2 hours The second day is more challenging, but the view makes up for it. L’Anse de Colombier is one of the most secluded bays in St. Barth, which can only be reached by boat or on foot. The shore is lined with palm trees and wildflowers, and the water is so blue you’ll almost believe it’s real.
Day 3: St Barth, L’Anse de Colombier – Gustavia
4 km (2 nm), sailing time: 0.5 hour Just a short, leisurely ride to Gustavia. Gustavia is the island’s capital, full of narrow, cobblestone streets and colorful, French-style buildings. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the beachside cafes and local bakeries – a croissant and coffee pair perfectly in the morning light.
Day 4: Gustavia – Marigot
28 km (15 nm), sailing time: 3 hours This day is a more strenuous stretch, but the sea and views are worth every bit of effort. Marigot is the pearl of the French side, with a harbour full of charming shops, markets and restaurants. It’s worth taking a walk along the shore, breathing in the salty air and sampling the fresh shellfish – the Caribbean flavours really come to life here.
Day 5: Marigot – Prickly Pear
25 km (13 nm), sailing time: 2 hours Prickly Pear is a small, sheltered bay for nature lovers. As an uninhabited island, it’s perfect for peace and quiet, with anchoring in the sheltered, clear waters making it a special place. It’s ideal for a day of relaxation: you can swim in the quiet lagoon or just lie on the sandy beach to the monotonous music of the waves.
6. Day 1: Prickly Pear – Bébé Requin Bay
25 km (13 nm), sailing time: 2 hours Bébé Requin Bay is a small, secret cove on the east side of St. Martin. The coast here is untouched, and the atmosphere is more intimate than in the larger tourist centers. If you love nature and tranquility, this day is all about immersing yourself in the wonders of the sea and the island.
Day 7: Bébé Requin Bay – St Martin
27 km (15 nm), sailing time: 3 hours The final leg takes you back to the main port of St. Martin. Enjoy the slow sailing on the way back. It’s worth stopping for a last swim or photo before returning the boat – this part of the Caribbean really leaves lasting memories.
Day 1. St Martin – Tintamarre 6,81 km (4,23 nm), Day 2. Tintamarre – St Barth, L’Anse de Colombier 25,29 km (15,71 nm), Day 3. St Barth, L’Anse de Colombier – Gustavia 4,00 km (2,49 nm), Day 4. Gustavia – Marigot 45,57 km (28,31 nm), Day 5. Marigot – Prickly Pear 25,65 km (15,94 nm), Day 6. Prickly Pear – Bébé Requin Bay 25,76 km (16,01 nm), Day 7. Bébé Requin Bay – Pinel Island – St Martin 27,83 km (17,29 nm)
sailing itinerary around St. Martin
Day 1. St Martin – Anguilla 29,75 km (18,49 nm), Day 2. Anguilla – Prickly Pear Cays 12,90 km (8,02 nm), Day 3. Prickly Pear Cays – Philipsburg 36,43 km (22,64 nm), Day 4. Philipsburg – Gustavia 25,71 km (15,98 nm), Day 5. Gustavia – Colombier 3,73 km (2,32 nm), Day 6. Colombier – Ile de la Fourche 6,01 km (3,74 nm), Day 7. Ile de la Fourche – Tintamarre – St Martin 25,88 km (16,08 nm)
What if your next sailing adventure wasn’t about organizing? Sounds great, right? St. Martin is waiting, the sea is calling and we take care of every little detail: the yacht is prepared, the paperwork is done. Request a quote, fill out the form below and head to the sunny bays – an unforgettable experience is guaranteed!
