Great Bay Express — High-Speed Ferry to St. Barths from Philipsburg
A 45-minute high-speed ferry crossing from Bobby's Marina in Philipsburg to Gustavia, St. Barths — the fastest way between the two islands.
Why Go
Great Bay Express is your 45-minute connection between Philipsburg and Gustavia, St. Barths. The high-speed mono-hull ferries Shantiwa and Big B depart from Bobby's Marina multiple times daily, carrying up to 250 passengers across some of the prettiest water in the Caribbean. No flights, no charters — just a straightforward ferry ride to one of the most glamorous islands in the West Indies.
The Experience
St. Barths is one of those islands that everyone knows by reputation: tiny, French, expensive, beautiful. What many visitors to St. Maarten do not realize is that it is only 45 minutes away by ferry, making a day trip entirely practical. Great Bay Express runs this route with the efficiency of a commuter service: multiple daily departures, no-nonsense boarding at Bobby's Marina in Philipsburg, and a crossing time that barely gives you time to finish a coffee on the sundeck before Gustavia's red-roofed harbor comes into view. The vessels are comfortable mono-hulls — the Big B accommodates up to 250 passengers, so you are not squeezing into a small boat. One-way, round-trip, and day-trip ticketing options give flexibility: go for the day and return on the evening sailing, or use the one-way option if you are spending a few nights in St. Barths. The departure from Bobby's Marina puts you in the middle of Philipsburg, walking distance from the boardwalk shopping and Great Bay Beach — useful if you want to kill time before a sailing. No hidden fees or luggage surcharges simplify the pricing. Child and resident discounts are available.
What to Try
Book a round-trip day excursion to St. Barths — depart on the morning ferry, explore Gustavia harbor, swim at Shell Beach or St. Jean, lunch at a French bistro, and return on the afternoon sailing. Walk through Gustavia's luxury shopping district for window shopping (or real shopping if the budget allows). Visit Shell Beach, a five-minute walk from the Gustavia ferry dock. Pre-book your return sailing to guarantee a seat on busy days.
Insider Tip
Sit on the port (left) side of the ferry on the outbound trip to St. Barths for the best views of the approach into Gustavia harbor. The return trip in the late afternoon gives you a spectacular sunset view over St. Maarten's south coast. Check the schedule carefully — some days have 3+ sailings, but Sundays may have reduced or no service.
The Practical Stuff
Departs from Bobby's Marina, 22H Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard, Philipsburg, Dutch side. Destination: Gustavia, St. Barths. Crossing time: approximately 45 minutes. Vessels: Shantiwa and Big B (up to 250 passengers). Multiple daily sailings (schedule varies by day; limited/no Sunday service). Tickets: one-way, round-trip, or day trip. Child and resident discounts. No hidden fees or luggage charges. Passport required. Price range: moderate ($$). Advance booking recommended for peak season.
Pair It With
- JBoogies Boating Tours St. Maarten Guide — Alternate water excursion from Philipsburg if St. Barths is too far
- Aziana Guide — Philipsburg restaurant near Bobby's Marina for lunch before or after the ferry