By ferry to Gustavia: yachts, Shell Beach and Saint-Jean bay
At a glance
- Theme
- History and towns
- Duration
- A full day
- Season
- December — June; much is closed in September and October
- Start
- The Dutch side
Fast ferries run to Gustavia from Philipsburg and Marigot — from 45 minutes. On the island you rent a car or a scooter: Gustavia with its forts and yachts, Shell Beach, and Saint-Jean bay, where planes land right over your head.
The channel is known for its swell — take something for seasickness before boarding. Book your return ticket at the same time.
Where to book
We describe a type of tour, not a specific offer. Prices, schedules and availability are on the booking platforms. Duration and season are a rough guide.
Departure point on the map
Purple dot: departure area (approximate); orange dots: places to stay nearby. Map © OpenStreetMap contributors. Coordinates are approximate.
Where to stay near the start
All places to stay in the area →
Things to see nearby
History
Philipsburg
The capital of the Dutch side: a boardwalk and duty-free shops≈ 50 m
Hike
Pic Paradis
A climb to the island's highest point, with views of both sides and neighbouring islands≈ 5.7 km
Nature
The Butterfly Farm
A tropical garden with hundreds of butterflies≈ 6.1 km
Nature
Loterie Farm
An eco-park with zip lines in the tropical forest≈ 6.2 kmOther tours on Saint-Martin
All tours →
Sea and lagoon
Pinel Island by kayak or ferryFive minutes across the channel and you are on an islet in the reserve
Half a dayAll year
Whales, dolphins, turtles
Catamaran to Tintamarre and Creole RockAn uninhabited island in the reserve: turtles and snorkelling by the rock
Half a day to a full dayDecember — July
Sea and lagoon
A day on AnguillaBy ferry from Marigot or by catamaran to the beaches of the neighbouring island
A full dayAll year
Canyons and thrills
Zip-lining at Loterie FarmCables above the forest canopy on the slopes of Pic Paradis
2–3 hAll year
Rum, wine, vanilla
A food evening in Grand CaseLolos, French bistros and infused rum on a single street
An eveningDecember — April; street party on Tuesdays
Canyons and thrills
Racing on America's Cup yachtsYou are the crew of a genuine 12 Metre racing yacht
3 hDecember — April