St. Maarten Cruise Port Guide
The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility in Philipsburg is one of the busiest and most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean, located on the Dutch side of the island of Saint Martin.
Its two large cruise piers are engineered to accommodate the world's largest passenger vessels, making it a key hub for Eastern Caribbean itineraries.
The port is situated on Great Bay, a short distance from the capital's downtown area.
Passengers can easily access the city's famous Front Street for shopping or relax on the scenic Great Bay Beach via a short walk or a dedicated water taxi service.
In This Guide
- Key St. Maarten Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Visiting St. Maarten Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to St. Maarten Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Monthly Pricing
Key St. Maarten Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
A top excursion is Maho Beach, famous for planes landing just overhead; it's about a 30-45 minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal.
For maximum convenience, Great Bay Beach and the adjacent Front Street for shopping are just a short water taxi ride or walk from the pier.
Many also venture to the French side to visit the scenic Orient Bay Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand roughly 30 minutes away by taxi.
Last updated on June 20, 2025
Nearby Cities & Attractions
From Philipsburg, many cruise passengers explore the French side of the island for a different cultural experience. A popular day trip is to Marigot, the French capital, located about 12 km (7.5 miles) away, which is typically a 25-45 minute drive from the cruise port.
Another frequently visited spot is Maho Beach, famous for its thrilling low-flying planes landing at the adjacent airport. This unique attraction is approximately 11 km (7 miles) from Philipsburg, a journey of about 30 minutes by taxi. For those interested in culinary experiences, the village of Grand Case is considered the gourmet capital of the Caribbean and is about a 35-50 minute drive.
Last updated on June 20, 2025
Port Location
The cruise port in Philipsburg, the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility, is located in Great Bay, about one mile (1.6 km) from the main downtown area.
While it is walkable in about 20-25 minutes, many passengers utilize the readily available water taxis that provide quick transport from the pier to the main boardwalk.
The port complex itself features numerous shops, duty-free stores, and restaurants for those staying close to the ship.
Cruise ships dock directly at the long pier, so tendering is not required.
Last updated on June 20, 2025
Local Currency
The official currency of St. Maarten is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of approximately 1.79 ANG to 1 USD.
However, US dollars are accepted everywhere, and prices are often listed in both currencies, so exchanging money is generally not necessary for visitors with USD.
Cruise passengers can find numerous ATMs and currency exchange services near the cruise terminal and along the main shopping streets in Philipsburg.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Safety Considerations
Philipsburg is generally safe for cruise passengers, but it is wise to be aware of your surroundings to prevent petty crime like pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.
Exploring the main tourist zones, like the boardwalk along Great Bay Beach, independently during the day is quite common and safe.
For excursions to other parts of the island, using licensed taxis or reputable guided tours is often recommended for both convenience and enhanced security.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, and exercise greater caution in less populated areas after dark.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Weather & Climate
Philipsburg, St. Maarten features a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. During the primary cruise season (December through May), expect average temperatures from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) with less rainfall and lower humidity than in the summer months.
Cruise passengers should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, and strong sun protection. It is important to be aware that the official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, which may overlap with sailings at the beginning and end of the season.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Shore Excursions & Tours
Yoho Pirates Premium Self Drive Speedboat Tour in St. Maarten
Drive your own premium speedboat—no experience or license required Follow a professional guide for a safe, stress-free adventure Cruise through Simpson Bay Lagoon and into the open Caribbean Sea Enjoy modern, stable boats designed for comfort and easy handling Pass luxury yachts, scenic beaches, and
Skip the Line Caribbean Carnival History Admission Ticket
The first interactive Caribbean Carnival museum in the world with over 8,000 sq ft of vibrant costumes, historical instruments, and local art that brings the spirited carnival tradition to life right before your eyes.
St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour
Our Family Deluxe Tour is a one-of-a-kind experience designed to help you explore the island in the very best way. This complete package takes all the guesswork out of your day you won’t have to worry about what to do or where to go. It offers a little bit of everything, ensuring there’s something e
Roundtrip transfer from SXM Airport to Dr AC Wathey Cruise Port
Upon arrival to Sint Maarten, your driver will be awaiting you outside the arrival area with a name sign. You will be greeted with a cold beer or bottle of water. From Princess Juliana International Airport to Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities you will be taken to the cruise port to board
Island Transfers: St. Maarten & St. Martin Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Conveniently navigate the stunning landscapes of Sint Maarten with seamless transfers to any location on the island. Whether arriving at the airport or traveling to popular beaches, your journey is hassle-free and tailored to your needs. Experience the vibrant culture and picturesque views as you mo
Three Beach Hopping Family Motorboat day
Cruise the coastline of both Dutch and French St. Maarten on a three-beach multigenerational, family adventure by intimate Motorboat for your private group. Listen to the sweet sounds of soca music and indulge in an array of snacks on board of fruits, chips, and cookies, coupled with a selection of
Taste of Caribbean Culture and Rum Factory Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and vibrant culture of St. Maarten on this flavorful, multi-stop cultural journey. From sipping handcrafted tropical rums to exploring colonial cities and plane-watching on a world-famous beach—this tour delivers the perfect blend of taste, history, and scenic wo
Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit (Hologram Tour) and Star Wars Celebrity
Visit one of St Maarten's most popular attractions and maybe meet a Star Wars celebrity at the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit! Explore this compact but unique hologram and DVD narrated tour housing the private movie relic collection of 'Star Wars' creature effects wizard Nick Maley. Known as "that Yoda Guy
The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
Experience The Best Of St Maarten in one day with just you and your family or group! Avoid the overcrowded tours with this Exclusive Private Tour Combination. Get to do a Sightseeing tour, a historic tour, get your pictures taken with the gorgeous island views in the background with your camera, do
Big Bastard's Ultimate Great Bay Beach Day for 2 - Row 2/3/4
Big Bastard's provides a full service beach experience, with music, games and floaties provided on the beach and supported by dedicated service to your seats. By choosing your beach day with us, you can enjoy a hassle free beach day, knowing you already have secured one of the best areas to enjoy on
Colorful Species Of Birds
Enjoys close up encounters with our colorful feathered inhabitants. Learn of their behavior. Feed the birds for a truly close-up encounter. Learn our island history and culture. Great photo stops. Feed the Iguanas. Sample Gouda cheese. cool off with an Ice cream. Choose to shop, dine or swim in Phil
Two Islands, Twice the Fun
Escape the tourist crowds and discover the authentic charm of St. Martin with our "Two Islands, Twice the Fun" tour. We seamlessly blend the best of Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint-Martin, taking you beyond the usual sights to uncover hidden local spots and savor exquisite cuisine favored by isl
St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour
Our Tours are one of a kind. our goal is to give you the best experience tour you have ever gotten in your entire life. we focus on Fun, Education and more Fun. what makes us different then the rest tour companies is we make sure you leave St.Maarten with a big smile on your face. Our tours are educ
Private Transport on Saint Maarten Island
Relax on this premium private transportation service on Island of Sint Maarten. The offer is up to the service we offer. We are the number 1 company in transport services, with the most modern and connected fleet. We can pick you up where you ask. We remain at your disposal, if you need additional
St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour
Our Tours are one of a kind. our goal is to give you the best experience tour you have ever gotten in your entire life. we focus on Fun, Education and more Fun. what makes us different then the rest tour companies is we make sure you leave St.Maarten with a big smile on your face. Our tours are educ
Luxury Private Picnic in Paradise Beach
Award yourself with a unique, quintessential retreat, offering a tropical once in a lifetime memory, taking al fresco dinning to a Caribbean Paradise! Started in the 19th Century, picnics have been the ultimate secluded ritual of treasuring the present moment with loved ones. Taking picnics to a ne
Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg
A private customized tour which allows groups, family and friends to travel at their own pace and focus on your specific interests. This tour is private, sophisticated and extremely personalized allowing guests to indulge in all of what this unique island has to offer. You will still enjoy the benef
St. Maarten 4 Hour Sightseeing Tour
This will be one of the best tours you did in your life. 4 amazing stops in 4 hours, you will get time to hang out at the main attractions and see all the highlights of the island. This tour is most popular for people who don't want to stay long at a beach. Relax and enjoy the ride as the guide take
Sint Maarten Wine Tasting Brewery Shopping and Jet-Blast Tour
Embark on a sensory journey with our Wine & Cheese Extravaganza, a delightful fusion of wine tasting, tapas indulgence, and brewery exploration! Begin your adventure in picturesque Philipsburg, where the first stop invites you to a charming wine tasting experience. Delight in 5 wine tastings paired
FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach
Explore some of St Maarten's most famous spots on this island tour! Visit Oyster Bay for a picture stop, stop at Orient Bay for some fun in the sun, head to the French capital, Marigot, see airplanes land and take off at Maho Beach, pass through Simpson Bay and see the bridges. Lastly, stop at Cole
Visiting St. Maarten Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to St. Maarten Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
No ships scheduled in port today.
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting St. Maarten
Sailings visiting St. Maarten during the the peak season of winter are much more expensive than the low months of spring and fall. On average St. Maarten is rather inexpensive as a port of call. Check the chart below for the monthly average cost per day.
