We have been traveling to the island for about 15 yrs now. Every yr we do a boat trip with are grown children. We were approached on the beach by a lovely women named Anna. She told about the boat trip and how they were growing there new business. I will try and be as fair and accurate as possible. I called and made a reservation for this past Saturday. I talked with Carla who sounded very accommodating. I expressed several times about it being a private charter as we have had several boating trips that we're ruined with over excessive drinking guest. I was informed that it would be private for 6 of us, as the boat was not huge. (only took12 max). 99.00 per person and lunch included, definitely sounded very reasonable. They took a deposit on my cc and we met up at 9 on the pier. I was greeted by Anna who then took my balance on a cc. they charge an additional 5% which she stated was a bank law here in st Maarten. So not true. Had I known I would have brought an additional 600 in cash. Their company is choosing to charge a fee.
then she informs me they are waiting for 4 more guest. What the heck? Private it isn't. We decided to make the best of it and continue. the boat is small , comfortable for 6 ,8 guest. if you are looking for comfort this is not for you. Our captain for the day was Simon, super super nice guy. Very informative and we snuck in and out of areas that you cannot get to with the bigger boats. Heading over to the French side was a very hard bumpy ride, I would not recommend for someone older or back problems. Anchored off tintamare where we had sandwiches from the bakery. The salt air and swimming makes you really hungry so anything would have tasted good at that point. They did have water and soda on the boat, but didn't really make it readily available.I believe there was beer and some alcohol as well if you asked. A box of cut up honeydew sitting in the sun, and some carrot cake at the end of the trip. You might want to pack some snacks if you go. 8 hrs is a long day on the water. Simon was very informative, took us to a snorkel sight, saw the beautiful yachts and the ride back was easier. All and all it was ok, but I have been on much more comfortable boats. I would probably not return on this particular trip. Maybe a catamaran is the way to go. I would hope that if this company continues with there success they take this as constructive and make some changes, decent cushions for your guest to sit on, some bigger coolers to store your food, pick an easier route for getting around the island, and be up front about your fees, people will appreciate not being lied to. good luck with your business and we hope 2014 is good to you.