Philipsburg Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Philipsburg Shore Excursions
Philipsburg
The Best of St Maarten Private Sightseeing Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 - 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 550.00
Philipsburg
FUN DAY St.Maarten Island Sightseeing Tour with Beach
Duration: 5 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 60.00
Philipsburg
St. Maarten Pelican Private Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 - 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 105.00
Philipsburg
Colorful Species Of Birds
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 49.00
Philipsburg
St.Martin/St.Maarten Magical Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 - 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 70.00
Philipsburg
St. Maarten 4 Hour Sightseeing Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 61.54
Philipsburg
Private Customizable Island Sightseeing Tour in St Maarten
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 550.00
Philipsburg
Two Islands, Twice the Fun
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 51.00
Philipsburg
Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit (Hologram Tour) and Star Wars Celebrity
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 25.00
Philipsburg
Shared Departure Transfer: Hotel to St Maarten Airport
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 9.00
Philipsburg
Big Bastard's Ultimate Great Bay Beach Day for 2 - Row 2/3/4
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 59.00
Philipsburg
St.Maarten/St.Martin Tripple Beach Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 - 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 69.00
Philipsburg
St Maarten Half-Day Trip to Orient and Maho Beach
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 45.00
Philipsburg
Private St Maarten Sightseeing Tour from Philipsburg
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 480.00
Philipsburg
Shore Excursion: Orient Beach and Maho Beach Adventure
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 400.00
Philipsburg
St Maarten Family Deluxe Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 160.00
Philipsburg
Private Transport on Saint Maarten Island
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 181.00
Philipsburg
Skip the Line Caribbean Carnival History Admission Ticket
Duration: 0.8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 40.00
Philipsburg
Best Of St Maarten Private Nightlife Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 249.00
Philipsburg
Luxury Private Picnic in Paradise Beach
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 253.34
Philipsburg
Roundtrip transfer from SXM Airport to Dr AC Wathey Cruise Port
Duration: 0 - 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 80.00
Philipsburg
Private One-way Airport Transfer St Maarten Airport To St Maarten
Duration: 0.3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 94.48
Philipsburg
Private Tour in St. Maarten
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 75.00
Philipsburg
Group 11 and more Airport/Hotel Roundtrip
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 15 - 45 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 54.00
Philipsburg
St Maarten Private Airport Transfer
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 60.00
Philipsburg
Island Experience Of St Maarten St Martin
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 55.00
Philipsburg
SXM Beer, Burger And Beach Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 100.00
Philipsburg
Island Transfers: St. Maarten & St. Martin Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Port pick-up: Included
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 60.00
Philipsburg
Three Beach Hopping Family Motorboat day
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 3500.00
Related destinations to Philipsburg
What should I know if this is my first time visiting Philipsburg?
First time visitors should expect a compact, walkable port town with lively streets, pastel colonial architecture and easy access to beaches and shops. Philipsburg shore excursions offer short walking routes, historic sites like Fort Amsterdam, and options that combine beach time with local markets and duty-free shopping. Local transport is straightforward, with taxis and shuttle buses linking key spots, but walking is often fastest within the centre. Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes and a small map or offline guide. Allow several hours to soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
What are the top attractions to see during a short visit?
Top attractions in Philipsburg combine history, shopping and beautiful seafronts. Philipsburg tours commonly include a visit to the Boardwalk, Great Bay Beach, and the Historical Museum at Courthouse; Fort Amsterdam's ruins and the Sint Maarten Museum offer context about colonial past. Duty-free shopping along Front Street attracts many visitors, while the colourful wooden homes around the cemetery and Philipsburg's harbour provide excellent photo opportunities. Expect short distances between major sights, making it possible to see several highlights in a few hours if pace allows.
Should I book a half-day or full-day excursion?
Choosing between a half day and full day option depends on interests and cruise schedule. Philipsburg shore excursions that run half day focus on key highlights, the Boardwalk, a short beach stop and a condensed walking tour, suitable for travellers with limited time or early sailaway. Full day options allow relaxed beach time, island exploration, snorkelling or combined activities at nearby attractions and usually include lunch. Consider travel time to and from the port, transfer reliability, and personal energy levels; a full day suits those wanting leisure and variety, while half day keeps plans simple and stress-free.
How can I learn about Philipsburg's culture and history on shore?
Local culture in Philipsburg reflects a blend of Dutch, French and Caribbean influences visible in language, cuisine and festivals. Philipsburg tours often highlight historical sites such as Fort Amsterdam, the courthouse area and churches that tell stories of colonial trade, slavery and emancipation. Museums and guided walks provide context for monuments and architecture, while public art and music offer living expressions of island identity. Respectful dress and asking permission before photographing people are customary. Allow time to listen to guides or locals to hear layered narratives that may not appear in guidebooks.
What nature and scenery can I expect near Philipsburg?
Scenery near Philipsburg varies from the broad sweep of Great Bay Beach to rocky headlands and mangrove fringes in quieter areas. Philipsburg shore excursions can include short coastal walks, viewpoints over the harbour, and boat trips that reveal coral reefs and marine life. Birdwatchers may spot frigatebirds and pelicans near the shoreline, while small islets and yacht anchorage create photogenic vistas. Bring a camera, binoculars and reef-safe sunscreen. Weather and sea conditions affect visibility for snorkelling or boat trips, so check local updates before booking any nature based activity.
What local foods and dining options are recommended?
Flavours in Philipsburg reflect Caribbean staples, fresh seafood, tropical fruits and Creole influenced dishes served with Dutch and French touches. Philipsburg tours often include stops at street food vendors, seaside restaurants and markets where you can try conch fritters, jerk style preparations, and freshly grilled fish. Look for locally made sauces and rum based drinks to sample responsibly. Vegetarians will find fruit, rice and beans options, though specialised vegetarian venues are limited. Ask about spice levels and ingredient sourcing if you have allergies, and carry local currency for small market purchases.
What activity level should I expect on typical excursions?
Activity levels vary depending on chosen itinerary. Philipsburg shore excursions range from gentle, mostly seated boat trips and leisurely Boardwalk strolls to physically demanding options such as snorkelling with strong currents, long beach hikes or guided cycling. Walking tours on uneven pavements can be moderate and include stairs; snorkelling and water sports require basic swimming ability. Consider personal fitness, mobility limitations, and the heat when selecting excursions. Read activity descriptions carefully, ask providers about required fitness levels, and factor rest or shade breaks into any plan to avoid overexertion.
Are shore excursions and attractions in Philipsburg accessible?
Accessibility varies across the port and attractions, with some areas very walkable and others presenting challenges. Philipsburg tours sometimes offer accessible vehicles and reduced mobility options, but many historical sites have steps, narrow doorways and uneven pavements that limit wheelchair access. The Boardwalk and some beachfronts are easier to navigate, although beach access may require assistance. Contact excursion providers in advance to confirm wheelchair access, accessible restroom availability and transfer arrangements. Allow extra time for transfers and request assistance from port staff if needed to ensure a smoother experience.
When is the best time of year and day to visit Philipsburg?
Best time to visit Philipsburg balances weather, cruise schedules and crowd levels across the year. Philipsburg shore excursions are pleasant during the dry season from December to April when rainfall is lower and sea conditions are calmer, but this period is also busier with more cruise calls. Shoulder seasons, such as late spring and autumn, can offer fewer crowds and good conditions, though hurricane season peaks between August and October so check forecasts and travel advisories. Morning excursions avoid heat and often offer smoother seas for boat trips and snorkelling.
What are the pros and cons of guided tours versus exploring independently?
Deciding between guided and independent exploration depends on preferences for context, flexibility and confidence navigating. Philipsburg tours led by local guides provide historical interpretation, shortcuts and a curated route that can save time and add cultural insight, while independent visits allow freedom to linger at shops, beaches or markets at your own pace. Consider language comfort, group size, and whether transport or cut off times are factors. Self guided options require planning for transfers and timing, whereas guided options may include logistics support; choose based on how much structure or spontaneity you prefer.
Which cruise lines visit Philipsburg?
Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Marella Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Azamara and Disney Cruise Line will all visit Philipsburg this year.
What cruise ships will sail to Philipsburg in 2026?
Philipsburg will be visited by Symphony of the Seas, Norwegian Viva, Allure of the Seas, Norwegian Gem, Independence Of The Seas, MSC Seaside, Jewel of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Star of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, MSC Virtuosa, Rhapsody of the Seas, Vision of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Marella Explorer, Odyssey of the Seas, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Discovery, Norwegian Epic, Freedom of the Seas, Valiant Lady, Brilliant Lady, Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Eclipse, MSC Grandiosa, Celebrity Xcel, MSC Divina, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Summit, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Star, Oceania Nautica, Borealis, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Escape, Marella Voyager, Marella Explorer 2, MSC Poesia, Azamara Journey, Adventure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Azamara Quest, Oceania Allura, Oceania Insignia, Azamara Onward, Oceania Vista, Oceania Marina, Resilient Lady, Celebrity Constellation, Harmony of the Seas, MSC Opera, Disney Fantasy, Disney Destiny, Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Pearl, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaview, Bolette and Utopia of the Seas.