Rich history is awash on the island of Tintamarre. This unassuming isle is all flat white beaches, rocky terrain, and marine wonders. The seas are ripe with Hawksbill sea turtles and frolicking schools of dolphins, not to mention beautiful ornate coral displays, and shy sea urchins. Back in the 18th century, Tintamarre took a starring role in the contention between the British and the French who both wanted to lay claim to the waters of the Lesser Antilles. As the 20th century swooped in, the island then became the home of the self-declared king of Tintamarre - a man who moved there to avoid taxes. Later it was also an island used on a smuggling route. From smugglers to kings and land grabs, the island is awash with stories all which add to its fabled charm today.
A vibrant escape of fuchsia florals and teal waters, Orient Bay of Saint Martin is quintessentially Caribbean. Situated on an undulating island of many scenic hilltops and lush foliage, the bay boasts a breathtaking backdrop of rolling green hills and swaying palms, with vivid turquoise waters waiting in the other direction. Partially (and optionally) nudist, the bay is lined with boutique boho beach bars where glamorous guests lounge in crisp linens, sipping colourful cocktails and drinking in the unrivaled view. Hiking and watersports are available for adventurous charter guests looking to delve deeper into the blue. For cuisine connoisseurs, there’s plenty of options for traditional seafood and Caribbean fayre. A laid-back spot, the bay is dotted with pretty little islets such as îlet de Pinel, offering sublime scenery and barefoot chic beachfront restaurants.
The capital of Sint Maarten, Philipsburg straddles the narrow strip of land between Great Bay and Great Salt Pond. It was founded way back in the 18th century and has been the commercial buzzing hub ever since. Colorful and charming, Philipsburg brims with Dutch vibes, boasting a scenic boardwalk, fabulous shopping, and numerous spots for sipping a heady rum cocktail or two. For charter guests wanting to lap up the night life, Philipsburg won’t disappoint. Roll the dice at the casino, dine in style, and splurge on jewellery, designer wares, and perfumes over on Front Street. For those craving a little more nature, there’s the sprawling nature sanctuary of Loterie Farm with hiking trails and waterfalls and Simpsons Bay Lagoon for lounging.
As one of the most famous stretches of sand on the Dutch side of Sint Martin, Maho Beach is truly one of a kind. While the shoreline shares the powdered sands and blue seas that are synonymous with the Caribbean, Maho has a different kind of magic. Being so close to the Princess Juliana Airport means that airplanes pass right overhead, skimming so close that you can almost feel the breeze they bring. Aviation lovers, keen photographers, and those who want to feel the buzz of being close to the belly of a Boeing will all find this beach an exhilarating place to be. It’s certainly not the spot for serene sea vibes, but for charter guests who want to sip a cocktail and let the rumble of aircrafts ripple through their bathing suits, Maho Beach is utterly unique.
French fancies await you in Marigot. Sitting on the French side of the Island of Sint Martin, Marigot is laced in luxurious charm. Once upon a time, Marigot was a sleepy fishing village until Louis XVI fell for its charm and built a thick walled fort across the top of these hills. Today, Colorful creole houses adorn the already impressive landscape, and the streets are a hive of harmonious activity. Charter guests can take their pick from five-star restaurants serving a fabulous fusion of Caribbean meets European food. There’s also beautiful boutique shopping, and buzzing market stalls to enjoy as you explore the town. After splurging on an array of jewelry, clothing, and cosmetics, take a hike up to Fort Louis for photo worthy views across the bay.
A thin strip of white peppered with umbrellas and edged by the green-blue sea, Baie de Grand Case seems to stretch on forever as it runs along the coast for over 4km. With Grand Case as your backdrop, the romantic gingerbread architecture peeps out from the palms, and yachts gleam on the endless horizon. Foodies will be in their element in Baie de Grand Case as there’s a wide selection of chic eateries steps from the beach. Grand Case is the gourmet capital of the Caribbean so expect plenty of action at bright and bustling restaurants along with chic boutiques for a first class shopping experience. For those who want to hunt for local treasures, the Marigot market is also close by.
Sitting snug in the dip of two soaring hills, Anse Marcel offers charter guests a place to kickback in total tranquility. With the hills providing plenty of shelter for the enclosed marina, Anse Marcel is a peaceful cove for swimming in the shallows and napping on the sand. Light trade winds caress pure white sands, the sea is an ever changing tapestry of blues, and the lack of any waves makes it a safe haven for small children and for those who want to paddleboard and snorkel without a ripple in the sea. A beautiful beach resort offers ample opportunity for gastro dining, sipping something special, and relaxing on a beach chair without a care in the world.