Captain Bob's Speed Boat Tours
6-hour speedboat adventure with sea turtles, snorkeling, and lunch across both sides.
Why Go
Captain Bob's has figured out the formula for a perfect St. Maarten day on the water: a 6-hour speedboat excursion with five stops that hit the best of both Dutch and French sides, including swimming with sea turtles at Tintamarre, snorkeling at Creole Rock, beach time on uninhabited islands, Maho Beach plane spotting from the water, and a lunch stop — all in a small group setting that avoids the cruise ship crowd effect.
The Experience
Departing from Philipsburg on Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard, Captain Bob's 6-hour flagship tour packs a full island experience into a single day on the water. The five-stop itinerary is carefully designed to balance activity types: snorkeling with sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish at spots like Tintamarre and Pinel Island; beach time for swimming and sunbathing on uninhabited cays; and sightseeing from the water that gives perspectives impossible from land. The small-group format (operated under Soualiga Destinations) keeps the experience intimate and avoids the overcrowded feel that plagues larger excursion boats. Captains with over a decade of local experience provide narration and local knowledge that enrich each stop beyond just snorkeling and sunning. Complimentary drinks are included throughout the tour, and lunch is part of the package. Private charters are available for groups wanting a fully customized day on the water. The family-friendly approach makes this suitable for kids while still engaging enough for adults.
What to Try
The full 6-hour tour is the signature experience — five stops ensure variety and avoid the fatigue of spending all day at one beach. Tintamarre's sea turtles are the highlight for most guests. Private charters allow custom routing for special occasions or specific interests.
Insider Tip
Bring an underwater camera — the sea turtle encounters at Tintamarre produce some of the best wildlife photos available on any Caribbean excursion. Book directly rather than through a cruise ship excursion desk to get better pricing and the small-group experience.
The Practical Stuff
Located on Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard, Philipsburg. Premium pricing ($$$). Flagship: 6-hour, 5-stop tour including snorkeling, beach time, lunch, drinks. Small group format. Private charters available. Near Johnny's Scooter Rentals and Great Bay Express.
Pair It With
- Great Bay Express Guide — Water taxi nearby for additional marine transport options
- Eagle tours Guide — Catamaran alternative at Bobby's Marina for a different sailing style