Christopher Columbus' sighting first brought European attention to this island in 1493. Today, St. Maarten flies two flags, making the island part-French and part-Dutch. Cruise ships more commonly call on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, known for its year-round sunshine, slew of shopping centers and buzzing nightlife. Visitors can voyage the Caribbean aboard a catamaran, kayak or Jet Ski. Island outings include all-terrain vehicle adventures, culinary tours and snorkeling or scuba diving trips. Walking and biking tours explore the historic capital, Philipsburg, and luxury yachts and sailboats offer private charters for enhanced relaxation.

Language: Dutch

Currency: Euro (EUR), US dollar (US$)

Driving Directions and Parking Information

Port of St. Maarten

Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Sint Maarten

The Port of St. Maarten is located approximately a half hour from Princess Juliana International Airport.

Exit the airport, and head northeast down Airport Rd for 2km. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit to follow Airport Rd for 2km, then take the 2nd exit at the roundabout. Drive for 1.2km to reach another roundabout, and take the 1st exit onto Union Rd. Drive on Union Rd for 2km, and at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto A.J.C. Brouwer Rd and drive for 1.5km. At the roundabout, take the 4th exit to stay on A.J.C. Brouwer Rd for 1.5km, then take the 1st exit in the roundabout onto Bush Rd. Drive on Bush Rd for 1km, then turn left onto Prins Bernard Brug. Continue down this road for 1.5km and once you reach the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Walter A. Nisbeth Rd for 1km. At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto W.G. Buncamper Rd, which turns into Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, your destination.