Every sailor should know Sint Maarten — because it’s the Caribbean’s most efficient, stress-free gateway for anyone needing service or supplies in the islands. It’s where superyachts base themselves for the winter and where multihull cruisers pause to reset, refit, and regroup before pushing further down (or up) the island. And they stop here for good reason: direct international flights, world-class chandleries, epic sailing and regattas, easy customs clearance, skilled labour, haul-out facilities, protected anchorages, reliable provisioning, and yes… some truly great bars.

Rapide’s Caribbean Multihull Advisor, Guy has called the island home since 2003 — long enough to know every shortcut, service, and local anchorage that never makes it into a guidebook. His goal? To make your time in Sint Maarten smoother, smarter, and far more enjoyable.

Welcome to the Caribbean—told by someone who turned this island into his homeport, not just a stopover.

Sint Maarten holds a unique charm as the world’s tiniest landmass shared by two countries. On the Dutch side, it buzzes with energy — lively beaches, nightlife, casinos, and the unforgettable sight of planes gliding low over Maho Beach. Just a short drive away, Saint Martin shifts the mood entirely, offering quieter bays, boutique shopping, and the renowned culinary scene of Grand Case, where French elegance meets Caribbean flavor.

Princess Juliana International Airport welcomes a steady flow of travelers from around the world, making Sint Maarten a practical and well-connected base for setting off by sea. From here, the nearest islands lie only hours apart: Anguilla with its gentle, powdery beaches, Saint Barths with its effortless elegance, and Saba with its wild volcanic charm.

An ideal jumping-off point for those who love exploring the Caribbean at a relaxed, luxurious pace.

Explore the Waters

RECOMMENDED OVERNIGHT ANCHORAGES

The French Side

Grand Case
A favourite all-weather anchorage, Grand Case is a staple on any cruising itinerary. The bay’s calm, turquoise waters make it easy to settle in for the night, and ashore you’ll find boutique shops and exceptional restaurants lining the waterfront. By day or night, it radiates French-Caribbean charm.

Friars Bay
Quiet, sheltered, and wonderfully relaxed, Friars Bay offers a peaceful break from the island’s busy pockets. Protected from northeasterly winds and swell, it’s a gentle hideaway perfect for unwinding.

The Dutch Side

Simpson Bay
Convenient and well-connected, Simpson Bay is ideal for clearing into the Dutch side. With easy access to the lagoon through the bridge and main marinas. It's a boat's paradise, as the island supplies every need, whether it be provisioning, marine chandleries, rigging, sail repair. It’s is the one stop shop all under one roof or “Island”

Great Bay
Comfortable in northeasterly and easterly winds, Great Bay leads straight into Philipsburg, the Dutch capital. Expect duty-free shopping, a lively boardwalk, and easy access to the island’s commercial hub. When southerly winds roll through, it can get a touch rolly.

RECOMMENDED DAY ANCHORAGES

The French Side

Tintamarre
A stunning, uninhabited island north of Orient Bay — part of the French Nature Reserve and accessible with a permit (apply ahead as approval takes time). Busy by day, serene by night, Tintamarre is perfect for a swim in clear water or for positioning yourself for a smoother angle toward Saint Barths.

Happy Bay
A secluded, postcard-perfect beach with soft sand and vibrant water. Happy Bay is ideal for a daytime stop, and in calm conditions, can offer a surprisingly dreamy overnight. It’s also known for its relaxed, clothing-optional vibe.

Anse Marcel
This tucked-away cove bay is surrounded by lush hills. Protection here is generally good though winds may swirl. Excellent for a swim — turtles are frequent visitors — while nearby Grand Case remains the better choice for overnighting.

Lasamana (Baie Longue)
Right on the French and Dutch border, a serene daytime anchorage, Baie Longue is often called Lasamana Beach by locals, thanks to the luxurious five-star resort nestled in the corner of the bay. It’s a beautiful place to unwind during the day, though one thing to keep in mind if you choose to stay overnight is the resort’s bright evening spotlights, which wash over the bay and soften the privacy and ambience.

Dutch Side

Mullet Bay
A gorgeous spot to enjoy by day, Mullet Bay is known for its clear water and sweeping sandy beach—though it’s worth noting that day-charter boats frequent the area, so it can get crowded. Still, it remains a favourite for its laid-back vibe, local cuisine, and Mediterranean-style beach bars lining the shore.

Beyond the Boat: Adventures on Land

Culture & Heritage
The cultural identity of St. Maarten & St. Martin is a rich, captivating blend of traditions, flavours, and stories passed down through generations. It lives in the island’s music and dance, in remedies drawn from the land, in the fusion of cuisines, and in the craftsmanship shaped by life on the sea and soil. Proudly united under the motto “One Island, One People,” locals carry their heritage with heart and ease.

Join one of the island’s cultural or historical tours to experience it for yourself — wander through old landmarks, sip bush tea, taste warm Johnny cakes, sample local rum, and take in sweeping viewpoints that bring the island’s history and spirit to life.

Street Art: The island’s creativity shines through colourful murals and photo installations scattered across both French and Dutch sides. Guided street-art tours take you through neighbourhoods alive with expression, texture, and local stories.

Adventure Inland

Loterie Farm: The island’s jungle escape—home to hiking trails through an old sugar plantation, zip lining, lush forest paths, and sweeping views from Pic Paradis. Cool off afterwards in the pool with a cocktail in hand.

A Taste of the Caribbean’s Culinary Capital

With people from all over the world calling this island home, it’s no surprise that Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is often referred to as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” From elegant waterfront dining to smoky beachside BBQ, the island caters to every palate.

Lolos – Grand Case (French Side)
Local Creole BBQ at its best. Casual, authentic, and beloved by both locals and travelers. true to their roots: open-air, locally owned and operated, offering delicious and affordable food at shared picnic tables, allowing visitors to step into a long-standing tradition that celebrates the island's heritage and hospitality

Freedom Fighters Ital Shack – Philipsburg (Dutch Side)
Rastafarian, farm-to-table style cooking with organic, homegrown ingredients. The menu changes daily. “Bushman” Roland and his family sport the motto "Ital is vital for your survival," and that eating healthy is a conscious way of living. Saturday nights feature a special "redemption night" with dinner and reggae music.

Lagoonies Bistro & Bar – Cole Bay (Dutch Side)
Accessible by dinghy, this is where locals and sailors mingle. Great for breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and live music.

Palapa Grill – Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)
A tropical oasis offering elevated dining with globally trained bartenders. A hotspot during high season for drinks and dancing after dinner.

Alina’s Sushi – Maho (Dutch Side)
Enjoy the authentic Japanese and Contemporary Asian fusion of chef Ken Lin and his team. A key feature is the Omakase experience at the sushi bar and the great range of sake and cocktails. Excellent for dietary needs, including gluten-free.

La Villa Hibiscus – Mont Vernon (French Side)
The restaurant is housed in a boutique hotel, an old colonial house, with an intimate covered outdoor dining area. With it’s elegant and romantic ambience it sets the tone for high-end French dining with refined tasting menus, with seasonal fresh ingredients. Chef Schenk and his team treat food as a work of art, with a focus on imaginative dishes with vibrant colors, textures, and aromas. Perfect for a special night ashore.

Dive deeper into everything Sint Maarten/Saint Martin has to offer, WE ARE SXM provides a comprehensive guide to activities, culture, and insider tips. Find them on their mobile app “WE ARE SXM” or their website, https://www.wearesxm.com.

Upcoming Regattas:

Caribbean Multihull Challenge (CMC)
Late January to early February, the Caribbean Multihull Challenge brings fast, elegant multihulls to Sint Maarten’s waters for a dynamic mix of high-performance racing and relaxed rally-style courses. Expect everything from point-to-point island sprints to tight buoy races, all paired with a warm shoreside atmosphere and a growing environmental focus.
2026 dates: January 29 – February 1

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta
Every early March, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta lights up the island as the Caribbean’s largest and most spirited sailing event. Four days of world-class racing draw an international fleet, while evenings come alive with a buzzing Regatta Village, live music, great food, and the famously fun Heineken parties that carry long into the night.
2026 dates: March 5 – 8

Shops & Essentials

The Butcher Shop – Cole Bay
High-quality meats, seafood, and specialty proteins. Online ordering available.
Bacchus – Marigot
Wines, gourmet goods, and specialty products.
Monoprix – Bellevue
Great for more upscale European supermarket

Reliable all-round supermarkets:
Carrefour – Cole Bay & Philipsburg
Super U – Marigot
Provisioning & Yacht ServicesParadise Foods — SXM, BVI, SBH, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Grenada, The Grenadines
Shore Support — Provisions & marine services

Marine Services & Marinas

Neptune Marine (Dutch Side)
Specialists in carpentry, boatbuilding, and full refits — interior and exterior. From woodwork and fiberglass repairs to window installations, paint, and custom furniture.
Nomad Marine Solutions (Dutch Side)
Experts in vessel upgrades and maintenance, including electrical systems, solar, lithium installations, and refit management. Works closely with trusted riggers, mechanics, and fabricators.
FKG (Dutch Side)
Rigging, metalwork, and hydraulic fabrication for yachting, industrial, and architectural sectors. Authorized dealer for Suzuki outboards and RigPro.
Tropical Sail Loft (Dutch side)
The experts for all your Sails & Canvas needs. Recognized agent for North Sails.
Chandleries:
- Budget Marine (Dutch Side)
- Island Water World (Dutch & French side locations)
Electec (Dutch Side)
All things electrical.
Simpson Bay Diesel Services (Dutch Side)
Parts & Servicing
Caraibes Diesel Services (French Side)
The official dealer of Volvo Penta products for Sint Maarten and surrounding islands for 20 years.

Marinas

Isle de Sol – Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)
Simpson Bay Yacht Club – Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)
Palapa Marina - Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)
Sky Port Marina - Simpson Bay (Dutch Side)
Port de Plaisance – Cole Bay (Dutch Side)
Lagoon Marina – Cole Bay (Dutch Side)
Dock Maarten – Philipsburg (Dutch Side)
Bobby’s Marina - Phillipsburg (Dutch Side)
Porto Cupecoy - Cupecoy (Dutch/French border)
Marina Fort Louis – Marigot (French Side)
“Not ready to go into Port Marigot? Much like Great Bay, it’s still a great place to drop anchor, offering easy access to the capital on the French side.”

Contact Guy Ogier
Email: guy@rapideyachtgroup.com
Phone: +1721 553 4730

Photo Credit: @ phil.a.f.photo , @ wearesxm , @ stmaartenheinikenregatta , @ caribbeanmultihullchallenge

By Guy Ogier - Rapide Caribbean multihull Expert

There’s a unique kind of magic that happens when you combine boat life with a place like Grenada. 

Grenada offers the perfect launchpad to explore one of the Caribbean’s most diverse,  welcoming, and adventure-filled islands. Having spent time here myself, I can confidently say: Grenada has it all.

Living the Dream: Anchoring in Grenada

Boating around Grenada means crystal-clear waters, gentle bays, and a coastline dotted with hidden gems. Here are some of my favorite anchorages to explore: 

1. Morne Rouge Bay 

This bay is pure serenity. Calm, shallow waters and postcard-perfect views. It’s also a quick swim to BBC Beach, where you can sip on a cold drink and enjoy some of the island’s best Mahi Mahi  “Popcorn” at La Plywood, a local beach bar known for its live music and laid-back vibes. One of those places where time just melts. 

2. Prickly Bay 

This spot buzzes with life. It's a popular anchorage with mooring balls and full marina services,  perfect for stocking up or meeting fellow cruisers. You're close to great bars and restaurants, and just a short taxi ride away from Grand Anse Beach (note: no anchoring allowed there, but worth the trip). 

3. Woburn Bay 

Quiet, calm, and beginner-friendly. This bay offers protection from the wind and is close to Hog  Island, where locals and cruisers gather every Sunday evening at Barefoot Beach Bar for live music, grilled food, and cold rum punch. Bonus: It's right by Clarkes Court Boatyard for easy  maintenance stops. 

4. Dragon Bay 

Just north of Port Louis Marina, this is your go-to for snorkeling and diving. Drop anchor and dive straight into the famous Underwater Sculpture Park—a hauntingly beautiful and eco-conscious installation that’s as thought-provoking as it is colorful.

5. Mount Hartman Bay 

If you're looking for a safe, long-term mooring, this bay is a well-known “hurricane hole” with excellent protection. Local legend George is your go-to guy here—he handles mooring rentals, hull cleaning, water taxis, and even propane refills. It’s a tight-knit boating community and a great spot to call home base. 

Beyond the Boat: Adventures on Land

Grenadians are incredibly proud of their island, and it shows in every interaction. The lush landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and warm hospitality make it impossible not to fall in love. 

Here are just a few land-based adventures I highly recommend: 

Seven Sisters Waterfalls & Grand Etang National Park 

This is one of the most beautiful hikes on the island. Bring a picnic, your swimsuit, and good shoes  (trust me—the trail can get muddy). It’s about a 30–45 minute walk to the first two waterfalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can keep going with a guide and discover even more hidden cascades deeper in the rainforest. 

River Tubing on the Balthazar River 

Float down Grenada’s so-called “Great River” through tropical jungle, swirling around boulders and through mini rapids. It’s fun, family-friendly, and a totally different way to experience the island’s lush interior. 

Hot Springs 

• Clabony Sulphur Spring: Tucked away in the jungle, warm and peaceful. Best accessed with a guide and a 4x4. 

• River Sallee Sulphur Springs: Up north, these bubbling mud pools are simple, rustic, and soothing. Local guides are happy to slather you in healing mud—it’s Grenada’s version of a spa day.

Eat, Sip, and Soak in the Culture

One of my favorite things about Grenada is how deeply connected people are to the land. Locals can name every fruit tree, spice plant, and herb growing along the trails—and they’re proud to share that knowledge with you. 

Some Must-Do Cultural & Foodie Stops: 

• Tri Island Experience: Learn how to make chocolate, tour a Rastafari farm, and meet local beekeepers. 

• Nimrod’s Rum Shack (Lower Woburn): A laid-back local hotspot, especially on Thursdays when musicians gather for open jam sessions. 

• Local BBQ Shacks: For the real-deal Caribbean flavors—chicken, ribs, rice, and peas— head to the roundabout near the soccer field in St. George’s, or another great spot is the little shack just outside the Tri Island Factory. 

• West Indies Beer Company: Great beer, solid pub food, and one of the best places to catch a game of sports or enjoy the nightlife, or a Sunday morning market in L’anse Aux Epines. 

Where Locals & Expats Mingle

• Monkey Bar at Laluna Resort: Open Friday to Sunday, this is a creative space with reggae vibes, cocktails, and a beautiful art studio. Laluna also offers yoga, a spa, and beachside wellness. 

• The Container Park: Located near the university, it's a hip food court with mini golf, pub quiz nights, and casual eats. 

• Le Phare Bleu Village: A charming marina village with artisan shops, spa treatments, a gin distillery, kayak tours, and more. Feels like a little boho oasis. 

• Silversands Resort: For a touch of luxury, spend a day poolside at this stunning beachfront resort. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining, world-class spa treatments, or simply lounging by Grenada’s most photogenic pool, this is the place to indulge.

Guy's local tips- Shops & Essentials 

Grenada’s got you covered for provisioning and specialty shopping: 

Local Faves: 

• The Meat & Meet Market – Artisanal butcher & deli at Le Phare Bleu • Le Boucher – Prickly Bay Marina 

• North South Wines – Great selection in Lance aux Epines 

• Caul’s Food Store – Perfect for gluten-free or vegan needs, in True Blue Supermarkets 

• RAMS Supermarket – Located in The Lime 

• Real Value IGA – Conveniently in Spiceland Mall, Morne Rouge 

Marine Services & Marinas 

Whether you're doing a full refit or just need a quick tune-up, Grenada has some of the best marine  support in the Caribbean: 

• Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina – St. George’s 

• Clarkes Court Boatyard & Marina – Woburn 

• Sea Safety Services / Driftwood Chandlery – At Clarkes Court 

• Grenada Marine – Volvo-certified yard in St. David’s 

• Le Phare Bleu Marina – A beautiful, full-service spot in Petite Calivigny Bay

Contact Guy Ogier for details about our current listings. Email: guy@rapideyachtgroup.com 

Welcome to Hamilton Island, where Race Week isn’t just a regatta, it’s pure sailing and island nirvana.

Hammo (to the Aussies!) is one of the most beautiful places on the planet to set sail. Sitting at the gateway to the Whitsundays, a cluster of 72 islands fringed by reef and opening onto the Great Barrier Reef, it’s the perfect backdrop for one of the best-run regattas in the world. With a top-tier race management and marina, great accommodation with options for all budgets, lively events, and a climate that makes you want to stay forever, it’s easy to see why sailors come back year after year.

Getting there is easier than you might think. The island has its own airport with direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane. For me, it was Boston to San Francisco, then Sydney, then finally up to Hamilton. Long, but seamless. Once there, you quickly get into the rhythm of island life. Golf buggies are the main form of transport, hiking trails lead to epic lookouts, and yes, you might even meet a brown snake on your bush walk!

The Slingshot Experience: Gunboat 68

Before racing began, I stepped aboard Slingshot, Gunboat 6801, a boat I helped build as owner’s rep in 2019. Seeing her again was like catching up with an old friend, only better. The program is everything a Gunboat campaign should be: well run, competitive, and fun.

Managed by Dara, with Maddie as full-time captain, Slingshot its a fantastic put-program and is everything a Gunboat program should be. And it’s not just the pros driving the action. The boat’s 12- and 10-year-old owners from Sydney took turns helming during races and even handled docking. Watching the next generation confidently take charge of a 68-foot multihull was both inspiring and a glimpse of sailing’s future.

My Ride, a Gunboat 48

For the regatta, my ride was a Gunboat 48 that had undergone a major refit two years earlier. With new daggerboards and T-foil rudders, she felt transformed: quick upwind and stable in seaway, like she was running on rails.

Our skipper, Erin, another female leader in the fleet, had a natural touch and calm authority that kept us competitive every race. We lined up against tough rivals, including a brand-new Cure 55, and every result went down to the wire.

The highlight was tacking up the back of an island in close quarters with 20 monohulls and four multis. We knocked off 20 tacks in 20 minutes, sometimes within two boat lengths of a reef of an island and led the fleet out of the decision. It was intense, exhilarating, and some of the best racing I have done.

Our Dream Team

Most of our crew were strangers at the dock, but quickly became lifelong friends. Hannah, our chef, doubled as our social media guru. Justin, an engineer and expert delivery Captain, was a key trimmer. George from Tasmania called tactics with accuracy beyond his résumé! Adam from S&H Spars ran the bow and gave us constant feedback on our competitors (and the whales!). I operated the pit and kept the boat in optimum sail trim, and Erin steered the boat with great feel and led the team with poise and professionalism.

The chemistry clicked instantly, and by the end of the week, it felt like we had been sailing together for years. What an awesome fun, fast team!

Female Power: The Future is Bright

This year’s multihull racing was defined by strong female leadership. Erin skippered the Gunboat 48 I sailed on, Maddie is the Captain of Slingshot and ran their pit with knowledge beyond her years, and the 12-year-old daughter of Slingshot’s owners helmed with remarkable confidence. Supporting them was none other than Adrienne Cahalan, one of the most accomplished offshore navigators in the world.

Together, they showed that women are leading the charge and why the multihulls are at the forefront of sailing's future . It is exciting to think about the impact this group will continue to make in the years to come.

Whales on the Racecourse

Only at Hamilton do you race with islands as marks and whales as competitors. The race committee sends fleets weaving through tropical backdrops with shifting breezes and strong currents, and then the whales arrive.

At one point, we found ourselves surrounded by humpbacks breaching, tail-slapping, and swimming alongside. If you don’t come for the racing, come for the whales.

Victory Tastes Sweet

At the end of the week, we stood on top, first place overall in our division. Lifting the trophy at the final dinner capped a week of tight racing, endless laughter, and a crew that never stopped smiling. Winning was sweet, but the real prize was the experience: racing on an iconic Gunboat, in paradise with a team that clicked from day one and left as friends forever.

Hammo Tips

More Than a Regatta

Hamilton Island Race Week isn’t just about trophies. It is about camaraderie, adventure, fun and a glimpse of sailing’s future. Programs like Slingshot and Malolo show how programs should be run: professional, inclusive, and inspiring the next generation.

Come for the racing, stay for the experience, and if you can, tack on a week to cruise the Whitsundays. Dive the reef, snorkel the bays, and soak up one of the most beautiful sailing playgrounds in the world.

It is a regatta you will never forget, and should be experienced by all!