Welcome to Gustavia, St. Barts, the jewel of the Caribbean and a port of call synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. This chic French island getaway is a favorite stop for premium cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Viking Ocean Cruises. Unlike larger Caribbean ports, St. Barts offers an intimate experience where passengers can step off their tender and immediately immerse themselves in a world of designer boutiques, mega-yachts, and stunning natural beauty. Its main appeal lies in its sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, pristine beaches, and world-class shopping and dining, all packed into one tiny, glamorous island.
St. Barts is famed for its stunning beaches. One of the most accessible is Shell Beach, located just a 10-minute walk from the tender pier in Gustavia. As its name suggests, the shoreline is covered in countless tiny shells. A bit further afield, a 10-minute taxi ride will take you to St. Jean Beach, perhaps the island's most iconic stretch of sand, known for its lively beach clubs and the thrilling sight of planes landing at the adjacent airport.
For breathtaking views, take a short but steep walk up to Fort Gustav. The remnants of this 18th-century fort include a lighthouse and cannons, but the main draw is the panoramic vista of Gustavia's red-roofed buildings and yacht-filled harbor. For those seeking underwater beauty, an snorkeling excursion to the marine reserve around Colombier Beach is a must, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea life.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
While St. Barts is a small island, several distinct areas outside of Gustavia are worth exploring. The village of St. Jean is just a 10-minute taxi ride away and is a destination in itself. It is home to the famous St. Jean Beach, which is split in two by the Eden Rock hotel and offers vibrant beach clubs, restaurants, and boutiques.
For a more tranquil experience, visit the village of Lorient, about a 15-minute drive from the port. Lorient Beach is known for its calmer waters, making it popular with families and for surfing on one end. Another popular destination is the secluded Colombier Beach, which is only accessible via a 25-minute hike or by boat, offering a pristine and peaceful escape.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Cruise ships visiting Gustavia do not dock; they anchor in the beautiful bay and passengers are brought ashore via tender boats. This tender service is a scenic experience in itself, offering fantastic views of the harbor. The tenders drop you off directly in the heart of Gustavia's waterfront, along the Quai de la République.
From the tender pier, you are immediately immersed in the town's charming atmosphere. The main streets for shopping, dining, and sightseeing are just steps away, so no shuttles or further transportation are needed to explore Gustavia itself. The area around the pier is bustling with activity, featuring numerous cafes, luxury boutiques, and restaurants overlooking the marina.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency of St. Barts is the Euro (€). While US dollars are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and by taxi drivers, you will often receive change in Euros. The exchange rate applied by individual merchants may not be favorable, so using a credit card or withdrawing Euros from a local ATM is recommended for better rates.
Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in almost all establishments, from high-end boutiques to waterfront cafes. ATMs are conveniently located in Gustavia, making it easy for cruise passengers to access local currency upon arrival.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
St. Barts is renowned for being one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, with a very low crime rate. Visitors can feel secure exploring Gustavia and the rest of the island independently. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid, and walking around the town, even after dark, is generally considered safe.
The main safety considerations are related to the environment. Always apply sunscreen, as the Caribbean sun is strong. When swimming, be aware of ocean currents at certain beaches. If you choose to rent a vehicle, drive with caution, as the roads are narrow, steep, and winding. Standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended on the beach, are always advisable.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
St. Barts enjoys a tropical climate with warm, sunny weather year-round, making it an ideal cruise destination. The primary cruise season from December to May aligns with the island's dry season. During these months, you can expect average temperatures between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C), with low humidity and gentle trade winds.
Rainfall is typically minimal and occurs in short, passing showers. You should pack light clothing, swimwear, a cover-up, and strong sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen. While the official hurricane season runs from June to November, major storms are most likely from late August to October, a period when fewer cruise ships visit the island.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Getting around St. Barts is part of the adventure. While the town of Gustavia is compact and easily explored on foot, reaching the island's famous beaches requires transportation. Taxis are readily available near the tender dock but can be expensive, as rates are regulated and fixed. There is no public bus system or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft on the island.
A popular option for cruise visitors is the car rental of a mini-moke, a small car, or an ATV to explore independently. Several rental agencies are located within walking distance of the port. This gives you the freedom to discover hidden coves and visit multiple beaches like St. Jean Beach and Saline Beach at your own pace on the island's famously scenic, albeit narrow, roads.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Shopping in Gustavia is a world-class experience, as the entire island is a duty-free port. The main shopping streets are the waterfront Quai de la République and the parallel Rue du Général de Gaulle. Here you will find an incredible concentration of high-end designer boutiques, including Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Chopard, often carrying items you won't find elsewhere.
Beyond luxury brands, you can find unique jewelry, stylish resort wear, and local art in smaller, independent shops. While prices in the high-end stores are fixed, the duty-free status can offer significant savings compared to US or European prices. For souvenirs, look for items with the St. Barts logo or locally produced vanilla rum.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
While these appear to be tour names rather than specific locations, they represent the key shore excursion experiences available from Gustavia.
An "Our Family Deluxe" or "St Maarten Family Deluxe" package typically features a trip to one of the island's famous beaches. Visitors can relax on the white sands of St. Jean Beach or Shell Beach, enjoying the calm turquoise waters and chic beachfront cafes.
The "Luxury VIP Airport" experience focuses on the thrill of Gustaf III Airport. You can watch from a nearby viewpoint as skilled pilots navigate the steep, dramatic landing onto one of the world's shortest commercial runways.
When you "Book with us and" explore Gustavia, you can discover the capital's charming harbor, designer boutiques, and historic Swedish colonial architecture. A short hike up to Fort Karl provides stunning panoramic views of the port and a perfect photo opportunity.
Opting for a "Private One" tour allows for a fully customized day on the island by private car or catamaran. You can choose to visit secluded beaches like Gouverneur, snorkel in the Colombier marine preserve, or create your own personalized sightseeing itinerary.
Enjoy close-up encounters with the island's wildlife, including opportunities to feed colorful birds and resident iguanas. This tour also includes lessons on island history, samples of Gouda cheese, and a cool-down with some ice cream. At the end, choose to be dropped off in Phillipsburg for shopping and swimming or be taken directly back to your pickup point.
Enjoy a hassle-free day on Great Bay Beach by securing one of the best spots in advance. Your reserved space is easily accessible from the water taxi and is yours for the entire day. This gives you the freedom to relax or explore the variety of vendors and other areas of Philipsburg at your leisure.
Choose this one-way transfer for your luxury or economical transportation needs, both with the same great service. Your chauffeur will monitor your flight for delays and will be waiting at arrivals with a sign bearing your name. After a friendly greeting, you will be escorted to your vehicle and taken directly to your chosen destination.
Our unique and fun Family Deluxe Tour is designed to cater to families with members of all ages. We focus on making your vacation worthwhile and breathtaking. Book with us to experience the time of your life on a memorable family adventure.
Pilot your own jet ski for a one-hour adventure in the giant playground of Great Bay, with no license needed. After a quick briefing, you can explore the open water, but you must remain visible to the operator at all times. Once your ride is over, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas to relax, with food and drinks also conveniently available for purchase.
Explore the world's first interactive Caribbean Carnival museum, an immersive experience for all ages. Discover over 8,000 square feet of vibrant costumes, historical instruments, and stunning local art. These captivating exhibits bring the spirited tradition of carnival to life right before your eyes.
Enjoy a seamless round-trip transfer between the airport and the cruise port. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting with a name sign to greet you with a complimentary cold beer or water. This service includes flight monitoring and a 45-minute waiting period after landing, ensuring a stress-free connection to your ship.
This group transportation service is the ideal solution for parties of 11 or more people. Avoid long lines and packed cabs by booking a 25-seat coaster bus or a 54-seat coach bus. Your friendly and courteous driver will provide a comfortable ride with drop-off to anywhere on the island.
Book your ride in just a few clicks and receive immediate confirmation with your driver’s photo, name, and vehicle information. Travel in comfort and safety aboard our modern, well-maintained fleet with professional drivers who ensure a punctual, stress-free ride. This reliable service is backed by responsive customer support to handle all your needs.
Ensure a hassle-free travel experience with this private airport transfer service. Book your ride for a safe, reliable, and comfortable journey from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) to your accommodation in Saint Maarten. Let us handle your transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip to the fullest.
Embark on a private motorboat adventure for your group, cruising the coastlines of both Dutch and French St. Maarten. This family-friendly trip stops at three different beaches for swimming and snorkeling while you enjoy the sounds of soca music. Onboard, indulge in an array of snacks, drinks like beer and wine, and a refreshing local coconut prepared before your eyes.
Discover St. Maarten with a customizable private tour that lets you shape your perfect island adventure. Choose from historical landmarks, stunning beaches like Orient and Maho, culinary experiences, or shopping at lively markets. Thrill-seekers can add exciting activities like horseback riding, ziplining, or ATV tours to their personalized journey.
Experience St. Maarten's finest handcrafted treasures on this 5-hour, all-inclusive tour. You will visit The Art Box Gallery for exclusive jewelry, St. Maarten Nectar for natural skincare, and the SXM Beer brewery for a tour and tasting. The adventure concludes at The Cocky Turtle, where you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with two free drinks while relaxing on the beach.
Embark on an art-focused journey in an air-conditioned vehicle, with insightful narration about the island's landscapes and history. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of local artists by visiting their personal homes or galleries. The tour also stops at the Art Box Gallery, which features works from over 20 Caribbean artists where you can acquire unique art.
Go beyond the typical sightseeing trip with tours led by knowledgeable, multilingual guides who share the rich history of each location. Choose between a shared group experience or book a private tour for your party. For a truly personal adventure, you can even request a tailor-made tour based on your specific interests.
Explore both Dutch and French territory on a guided ATV excursion at a relaxed, sightseeing pace accessible to beginners. The tour is mostly on-road and includes multiple 15-20 minute stops for photo opportunities. A valid driver's license is required to steer your ATV, and the tour includes two complimentary beverages per person.
Experience the best of St. Maarten in one day on an exclusive private tour for your family or group. This combination tour includes sightseeing, history, photo ops, duty-free shopping, and lunch at a local restaurant. You can then swim at a beach of your choice and stay as long as you like at any point of interest.
Embark on an adrenaline-based adventure for all ages and get to know St. Maarten’s natural wonders. Board your own 4x4 UTV and set off on a scenic caravan-style drive across both the French and Dutch sides of the island. Along the way, you will visit different beaches for a swim, explore shallow reefs, and spot bright green iguanas.
Visit one of St. Maarten's most popular attractions, the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, featuring the private collection of 'Star Wars' creature effects wizard Nick Maley. This self-paced tour is narrated by holograms and DVDs, telling stories from the making of his 63 movies. Your ticket allows you to jump the queue and explore this compact and unique exhibit at your leisure.
Experience a complete tour of the island with this all-in-one package covering monuments, beaches, shopping, local cuisine, and culture. Learn about St. Martin’s unique history via live commentary from your knowledgeable guide. This tour is suitable for all ages and includes complimentary refreshments like beer and rum punch.
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Prices are approximately equal throughout the year. On average cruises visiting St. Barts are moderately inexpensive compared to other itineraries. See the illustration below for the monthly average cost per day.
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