St. Maarten vs. St. Thomas: The Ultimate Showdown

A Caribbean cruise provides the perfect island escapades that you’ve always dreamed of. But which island(s) will you select? Nestled in the Eastern Caribbean, both St. Maarten and St. Thomas are sought-after destinations. The good news is that you can conveniently reach both islands from ports such as San Juan, Barbados, Charleston, and New York.

Whether you cruise to St. Maarten or St. Thomas, expect to bask in sunshine on stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. Both islands charm visitors with their distinct cultural experiences, excursions, and activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

To assist you in your choice, here’s a comprehensive comparison of St. Maarten and St. Thomas.

What do St. Maarten and St. Thomas have in common when it comes to cruising?

If you enjoy lounging on soft sandy shores, racing across the waves on a jet ski, and indulging in duty-free shopping, you will love cruising to either of these amazing destinations.

Sunny Climate

The Eastern Caribbean enjoys a warm, tropical climate throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator. From October to April, you can escape the chill of home and bask in sunny days and warm nights, with minimal rainfall. Whenever you decide to cruise to St. Maarten or St. Thomas, the sea is ideal for swimming, with an average temperature hovering around 80°F.

Beautiful Beaches

Both islands feature stunning beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. If you're a fan of the beach, either cruise destination will exceed your expectations, offering sun-soaked days and picturesque photo opportunities at every turn.

A cruise to St. Maarten offers a plethora of beach options, from hidden cays to shimmering lagoons and lively spots perfect for people-watching while enjoying cocktails by the sea. Little Bay Beach is conveniently located near the cruise port, featuring shallow waters ideal for snorkeling straight from the shore.

The stunning Orient Bay Beach is famous for celebrity sightings, while Dawn Beach provides stunning views of St. Barts along with a variety of lively beach bars.

Magens Bay on St. Thomas is a renowned stretch of sand celebrated for its calm, turquoise waters and comfy lounge chairs for ultimate relaxation. Coki Beach is the perfect place for snorkeling right off the sand, complete with chairs, umbrellas, and food and drink vendors. For beautiful scenery and great reef snorkeling, Sapphire Beach is a favorite choice.

Exciting Water Sports

Eager to dive into your passion for water sports? Both islands offer fantastic opportunities for adventure on the water, featuring excitement, relaxation, underwater exploration, and more. Among the top excursions are diving and snorkeling, where you can marvel at vibrant coral reefs, intriguing caves, and marine life such as butterfly fish, turtles, parrotfish, and even manta rays.

To fully enjoy the tropical breezes, hop on a luxurious catamaran and watch dolphins frolicking while you unwind on deck. You’ll have chances to stop at reefs for snorkeling and visit hidden beaches perfect for lounging under palm trees. Onboard, you can savor delicious food and refreshing drinks.

When adventure beckons, thrilling options await, including parasailing, flyboarding, jet skiing, water skiing, and high-speed jet boat rides. Kayaking provides a delightful way to explore the islands from the water, allowing you to discover wildlife-filled mangroves, pristine beaches, and tranquil lagoons, all with guides highlighting points of interest and history.

Exceptional Shopping

Be sure to pack extra room in your suitcase for shopping during your cruises to St. Maarten and St. Thomas. Right at the cruise ship dock in St. Thomas, Havensight Mall is a shopper's paradise, featuring duty-free treasures ranging from luxury watches to unique handcrafted goods and sparkling diamonds.

Front Street in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, is brimming with perfumeries, electronics stores, chic boutiques, and upscale jewelers.

What sets cruises to St. Maarten apart from those to St. Thomas?

While you’ll enjoy all the highlights of a Caribbean cruise at both destinations, their distinctive characteristics offer a delightful variety and excitement to cruise itineraries.

Distinct Cultures

In St. Maarten, you'll experience a fascinating blend of two cultures on one island, as it is divided into French and Dutch territories. This unique combination, alongside a relaxed Caribbean vibe, offers incredible variety. The Dutch side features tourist-friendly activities, rolling hills, and the capital city, Philipsburg. Meanwhile, the French side is known for its luxurious European boutiques, gourmet cafés, and laid-back atmosphere.

During a St. Thomas cruise, you'll immerse yourself in the American and Caribbean culture of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Prepare to enjoy lively reggae and calypso music, historic forts, and charming colonial houses. Family-friendly attractions abound, including aquariums and wildlife parks, while the port of Charlotte Amalie is lined with cobblestone streets, museums, and churches.

Exquisite Cuisine

Dining on both islands is a delightful experience, each offering distinct flavors. St. Maarten excites your palate with Creole specialties, fresh seafood, and a diverse range of international cuisines, from Lebanese to Italian, not to mention delectable French dishes.

St. Thomas showcases the culinary delights of the Virgin Islands, featuring Caribbean specialties such as flavorful Callaloo stews, conch chowders, and mouthwatering jerk barbecues.

Currency

While the United States dollar is commonly accepted in St. Maarten, the official currency on the Dutch side is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder, and on the French side, it is the Euro. As a U.S. territory, St. Thomas uses the United States dollar as its official currency.

In conclusion, a cruise to either island offers countless opportunities for sun-soaked enjoyment against the backdrop of some of the world's most breathtaking beaches. The incredible diversity of culture, adventure, and historical sites ensures there is always something new to explore and experience.

Whether you opt for a single destination or a thrilling itinerary that includes both, you can’t make a bad choice.

Please note: Activities onboard, shore excursions, and dining selections may differ based on the ship and destination.