The 8 Best Items to Purchase in St. Maarten

Can you identify a tiny island nation ruled by two different countries, boasting more gaming machines per capita than any other place on earth, can be spelled in various ways, and features mountains, lagoons, and pristine white sand beaches? It may be hard to believe such a diverse paradise exists just a short cruise from the United States, but if you guessed St. Maarten, you’re absolutely right. This extraordinary island is truly one of a kind in the Caribbean, with the Dutch controlling one half and the French the other. This blend of cultures, combined with the local island vibe, transforms shopping for souvenirs and gifts in St. Maarten into a remarkable adventure. As you traverse the island's 37 square miles, here’s a gift guide on what to purchase during your stay.

1. Dutch Porcelain

St. Maarten boasts two unique sides that have coexisted peacefully for over two centuries. This duality is reflected in the souvenirs and gifts available while shopping. On the Dutch side of the island, known as “Sint Maarten,” you can discover the traditional blue and white Dutch porcelain. This is the only authorized location for the renowned hand-painted porcelain outside of the Netherlands. You might be surprised to find exquisite porcelain items during your cruise excursion, but it would be a missed opportunity not to explore this option. You’ll notice the iconic white and blue porcelain designs featuring traditional Dutch shapes like windmills, tulips, and row houses. Plus, thanks to the island’s tax and duty-free status, you’ll enjoy savings that a trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t offer.

2. Fiery Sauces

Do you know someone who loves spicy food? You must try the hot sauces made on St. Maarten, crafted from peppers that thrive in the island's humid, tropical climate. Jalapeños, scotch bonnets, and habaneros are just a few of the peppers used to create sauces that range from mildly spicy to a full-on flavor explosion! You might even discover a barbecue sauce made with local chilies or a guavaberry liqueur made from indigenous fruits.

3. Guavaberry Delights

Native to the Caribbean, the guavaberry plant bears a fruit known as the rum berry. The locals quickly recognized its value and began harvesting the fruit to produce juices, rum, liqueur, jams, and desserts, effectively preserving the sweet fruit’s fleeting growing season. It’s important not to confuse “guava” with “guavaberry,” as they are two distinct products. While exploring St. Maarten, look for items labeled “guavaberry,” so you can bring home authentic island flavors.

4. Specialty Liqueurs

If you're looking to take home a beautiful gift, seek out flavored liqueurs offered in hand-painted glass bottles, along with family-owned rum makers renowned for their banana, vanilla, and passionfruit rums. Worried about transporting glass back home? No problem—flavored rums are also available in plastic bottles. These keepsakes will continue to serve you well even after the delicious liqueur is gone—simply refill them with your favorite sauces or condiments as a reminder of your enchanting time on the island.

5. Wines

You'll discover exquisitely crafted French wines available at a fraction of the cost, thanks to the island’s tax and duty-free status. Pick up a bottle for a beachside picnic, or request it be wrapped for your suitcase for the journey home. If you’re a wine enthusiast, St. Maarten is the perfect shopping haven for rare wines you’ll want to enjoy and savor.

6. Luxury Apparel and Footwear

Wander through a variety of upscale boutiques to discover the latest trends in French and European fashion. Even if high-end shopping wasn’t in your budget, don’t miss the chance to peek inside these designer stores and see the freshest runway styles. Plus, you can take advantage of the island’s tax and duty-free status to make luxury purchases more accessible.

7. Fragrances and Beauty Products

Attention all beauty enthusiasts! If you’re enchanted by cosmetics, St. Maarten is your destination for exclusive European beauty products that are sure to become your new favorites. Countless in-demand items that are hard to find outside the EU line the shelves, making you wish you had packed a bigger suitcase! You’ll find these premium European cosmetics and perfumes on the Dutch side of the island. Planning to stock up? Bien sur!

8. High-Quality Linens

Similar to Dutch porcelain, you might not anticipate buying tablecloths and napkins during your beach getaway, but rest assured, St. Maarten offers some of the finest linens available outside Europe. A helpful tip: measure your table beforehand and keep that information handy. This way, you can confidently select the right size when you visit the linen store.

Visiting St. Maarten gives you a glimpse into how French, Dutch, and Native island cultures have blended to create a unique island experience that you can savor during your cruise stop. While shopping in St. Maarten, you’ll discover gifts that capture the essence of the island, serving as cherished mementos from your wonderful Caribbean cruise.

Note: Activities on board, shore excursions, and dining options may differ by ship and destination.