Rhino Mini-Speed Boat Snorkeling Tours
Multi-award-winning self-drive Rhino Rider boat tours with snorkeling at Creole Rock.
Why Go
The genius of the Rhino Rider concept is that you are not a passenger — you are the captain. These sturdy inflatable mini-speed boats carry up to three people, require zero experience to operate, and follow a guide along St. Maarten's coastline to snorkeling spots and beaches that larger boats cannot access. Multiple 'Tour of the Year' awards and years of TripAdvisor Excellence certificates confirm what riders already know: this is one of the most fun things you can do on the water in the Caribbean.
The Experience
Rhino Mini-Speed Boat Tours operates from Welfare Road in Cole Bay, launching its fleet of Rhino Rider inflatables for guided convoy-style tours along the coast. The flagship 3-hour Snorkeling Adventure follows a guide to Creole Rock, where pristine turquoise waters cover coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and occasional sea turtles. The interactive format — each boat controlled by its passengers — transforms what could be a passive sightseeing ride into an engaging, hands-on experience. The 4-hour Ultimate Rhino Tour extends the adventure with plane spotting at Maho Beach (from the water — a completely different perspective than the beach), Cupecoy Caves snorkeling, mega-yacht viewing in Simpson Bay Lagoon, an underwater museum, multiple beach stops, lunch, chairs, umbrellas, and water toys. Beach Getaway tours visit secluded spots like Friar's Bay for a more relaxed day. Veteran guides escort the fleet through protected waters, managing safety while ensuring everyone has a blast. The 7 AM to 6 PM operating window accommodates early departures for those wanting calmer morning waters.
What to Try
The 3-hour Creole Rock snorkeling tour is the essential experience — interactive driving plus world-class snorkeling. The Ultimate 4-hour tour adds Maho plane spotting from the water, the underwater museum, and lunch. Morning departures offer calmer seas and clearer snorkeling visibility.
Insider Tip
Book the first departure for the calmest waters and best snorkeling visibility. The boats are easy to drive, but sitting in the back provides a drier ride than the front. Waterproof phone cases are essential — you will want photos but not a drowned phone.
The Practical Stuff
Located at 58 Welfare Road, Cole Bay. Open daily 7 AM to 6 PM. Premium pricing ($$$). Options: 3-hour snorkel tour, 4-hour ultimate tour, beach getaway. Self-drive Rhino Riders (up to 3 people, no experience needed). Near WE Lounge and Pineapple Pete. Award-winning operation.
Pair It With
- Pineapple Pete Guide — Simpson Bay restaurant nearby for dinner after a day on the water
- Wasabi Charlie Guide — Japanese restaurant on Welfare Road for a post-tour meal