Straddling two nations, Saint-Martin is a perfect illustration of the Caribbean's cultural melting pot. The French part, located in the north of the island, has been an overseas collectivity since 2007, embodying an authentic, European ambience, tinged with a gentle way of life. To the south, the Dutch part has been an autonomous state within the Kingdom of the Netherlands since 2010. This duality harmoniously blends the cultural and administrative influences of the two entities, creating an island where yachtsmen can discover varied traditions, beautiful landscapes and services adapted to sailing.
Anchorages in Saint-Martin
Sailing conditions on Saint-Martin are perfect during winter, when the trade winds blow with enviable regularity. The island is protected from ocean waves by the coral reef, ensuring relatively calm seas even when the wind is blowing hard. For yachtsmen, Saint-Martin represents an excellent starting point for exploring neighboring islands such as Anguilla or Saint-Barthélemy, but the island itself offers enough routes for interesting cruises, with protected anchorages, secluded bays and heavenly beaches.
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The Port of Marigot
Marigot, the capital of the French part of Saint-Martin, is a must for yachtsmen. Its harbor, Marina Fort Louis, is a traditional marina and one of the oldest on the island. It offers excellent accessibility for visiting sailboats, and a beautiful view of the bay surrounded by green hills. The harbor is ideal for a stopover before exploring the surrounding anchorages: you can take advantage of the lively town with its stores, restaurants and local markets.
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Orient Bay
Located on the east coast, Baie Orientale is one of the island's most popular. Its translucent waters, immaculate beaches and calm atmosphere make it a haven of peace for yachtsmen. Only a few minutes by boat from the port of Marigot, it's ideal for swimming or relaxing after a day's sailing.
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L'Îlet Pinel
Îlet Pinel, just off the east coast of Saint-Martin, is another must-see. Accessible in just a few minutes by boat from Baie Orientale, this wild islet is a veritable oasis of tranquillity. On-site restaurants and a small bar provide the ideal setting for lunch after a morning's sailing.
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Grand Case Bay
On the west side of the island, Grand Case Bay boasts an exceptional seabed. It's the perfect place for scuba diving enthusiasts, with its coral reefs and shipwrecks.
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Tintamarre White Bay
Located on the uninhabited island of Tintamarre, off the northeast coast of Saint-Martin, Baie Blanche is one of the quietest and most popular anchorages for yachtsmen. Accessible only by boat, this bay offers an idyllic setting with its crystal-clear waters and fine sandy beaches. It's the perfect place for snorkeling enthusiasts to explore the seabed, rich in marine life.
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Simpson Bay Lagoon
On the Dutch side, Simpson Bay Lagoon is one of the largest and most protected lagoons in the Caribbean. The lagoon is home to a number of modern marinas with top-quality facilities including refuelling stations, boat cleaning and repair services. The marina is also a popular spot for sailors wishing to discover the island's nightlife, with its many restaurants, bars and boutiques.
Explore the island's two cultures
One of the special features of Saint-Martin is its division into two distinct parts: the French part to the west, with its capital Marigot, and the Dutch part to the east, dominated by the lively center of Philipsburg. This coexistence of two cultures, French and Dutch, makes Saint-Martin a place of encounters, exchanges and discoveries. On the French side, Marigot is a charming town where you can stroll the picturesque streets, visit the local markets or enjoy Creole cuisine in one of the many seaside restaurants. On the Dutch side, Philipsburg boasts a lively atmosphere with a multitude of stores, casinos and restaurants. This commercial and tourist center attracts visitors looking for a festive experience.
