The Simpson Bay Sunset Cruise of Sint Maarten
The easiest, best-value way to end a day on the island. The Simpson Bay sunset cruise is a relaxed 90-minute catamaran sail along the Sint Maarten coastline, timed so you're out on the water as the sun drops into the Caribbean. No snorkeling, no full-day commitment — just the coast, the breeze and the sunset. Rated 4.6 stars. Here's what to expect, and how it fits with the other Sint Maarten island tours.
About the Simpson Bay Sunset Cruise
Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund
Hold your spot and pay closer to the day
A short, relaxed evening cruise
Cruise the coastline from Simpson Bay
Out on the water for the best of the evening light
The most affordable cruise on the island
Check Live Availability & Prices
Real-time dates and prices for the 1.5-hour Simpson Bay sunset cruise along the Sint Maarten coastline.
Why Book the Sunset Cruise
Not every day on the island needs to be a big production. This 90-minute catamaran cruise leaves from Simpson Bay in the evening and sails the coastline as the sun sets over the Caribbean — a simple, scenic way to round off a beach day or a day of sightseeing. It's short, affordable and the kind of thing you'll be glad you booked.
At around $45 it's the best-value cruise on this site, which makes it an easy add-on to any island stay. It's rated 4.6 stars. Compare it with the other island tours in St Maarten.
What You'll See on the Cruise
A relaxed evening sail with the coastline and the sunset as the main event. Expect to:
- Cruise the Sint Maarten coastline from Simpson Bay
- Watch the sun set over the Caribbean from the water
- Take in the shoreline, beaches and hills in the evening light
- Relax on deck with the sea breeze
- Get some of the best sunset photos of your trip
What's Included (and What Isn't)
What's Included
- A 1.5-hour evening catamaran cruise
- A sail along the Sint Maarten coastline
- Sunset views from the water
- A friendly sailing crew
Not Included
- Transport to and from Simpson Bay
- Any drinks or snacks beyond what's offered on board
- Gratuities for the crew (optional but appreciated)
How the Evening Flows
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Late afternoon
Board at Simpson Bay
Meet the crew and board the catamaran in Simpson Bay before sunset.
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Set sail
Cruise the coast
Sail out along the coastline as the evening light softens.
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Golden hour
Sunset on the water
Settle in on deck for the sunset over the Caribbean — the highlight of the trip.
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After dark
Return
Cruise back into Simpson Bay to wrap up the evening.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
An easy evening out — just a couple of things to plan for.
- Arrive at Simpson Bay in good time before the scheduled departure
- Bring a light layer — it can feel breezy on deck after the sun goes down
- It's a short, gentle cruise, so seasickness is rarely an issue
- Check whether drinks are included or available to buy on board
What to pack
- A light jacket or wrap for the breeze
- A camera or phone for the sunset
- Flat, non-slip shoes for the deck
- A little cash for drinks or tips
What to leave behind
- Bulky bags — it's a short, casual cruise
- High heels and anything awkward on a boat deck
Insider Tips for the Sunset Cruise
Small things that make the evening even better:
- Check the day's sunset time and aim to board well before it
- Sit on the side facing west for the clearest view of the sun going down
- Bring a light layer — the breeze picks up once the sun is gone
- It's the best-value cruise on the island, so it's an easy pairing with a beach afternoon
- Phones struggle with sunset glare — wipe the lens and tap to lower the exposure
- Book ahead in high season; the evening slots are popular
Where It Departs — Simpson Bay, St Maarten
Who This Tour Is For
The pick for a simple, scenic and affordable evening on the water.
- Couples who want a relaxed, romantic sunset
- Families wanting a short, easy cruise
- Travelers on a budget who still want time on the water
- Anyone looking to round off a day of beaches or sightseeing
Not ideal for
- Travelers who want snorkeling or a swim stop
- Anyone after a full day at sea (try the Anguilla day sail)
- Visitors hoping for a long, all-inclusive cruise
Simpson Bay Sunset Cruise — FAQ
Where and when does the sunset cruise go?
It departs from Simpson Bay in the evening and sails the Sint Maarten coastline, timed so you're on the water for the sunset. The whole cruise is about 90 minutes. Compare it with the other island tours in St Maarten.
How much does the sunset cruise cost?
It starts at $45 per person, making it the most affordable cruise we feature. You can check live availability for your date above and book ahead, as evening slots are popular.
Is there snorkeling on this cruise?
No — this is a scenic sunset sail, not a snorkel trip. If you'd like snorkeling and swimming, the catamaran and trimaran day-sails are a better fit. Contact us and we can point you to the right one.
Will I get seasick?
It's a short, gentle coastal cruise rather than an open-water crossing, so seasickness is rarely an issue. Bring a light layer, as it can feel breezy on deck once the sun goes down.
Is it good for a romantic evening?
Yes — the relaxed pace, the coastline and the sunset make it a popular choice for couples. It's also short and affordable enough to add to almost any evening on the island.
What Travelers Say About the Sunset Cruise
A lovely, low-key end to our day. The sunset over the water was stunning and the crew were friendly. Great value for 90 minutes on a catamaran — we'd do it again.
Simple and beautiful. We just wanted a relaxed evening on the water and that's exactly what we got. Take a light jacket for the breeze on the way back.
Perfect little romantic cruise for the price. The light on the coastline was gorgeous and it was the easiest thing to book for our last night.