Rainforest Adventures is the Dutch side's main adventure park, built around a scenic chairlift called the Sky Explorer and a zipline called the Flying Dutchman. The Sky Explorer carries you up the hillside for wide views over the island and the surrounding sea, and it is the gentler option for anyone who is not ready to fly. The Flying Dutchman is the thrill, a long zipline run for people who want speed. Combination packages add extras such as the Sentry Hill zipline and a schooner ride, so you can pick a short ride or a bigger package. Traveler reviews average just under four stars, so it is a good, family-friendly outing rather than a flawless one. It suits visitors who want something active without a long hike or a boat trip.
What you do: choose the Sky Explorer for views, the Flying Dutchman for the zipline, or a bundle for both. A popular ticket covers the Sky Explorer and Flying Dutchman together, and the park also sells larger combinations with Sentry Hill and a schooner ride. Each activity is separate, so you can decide how much adventure you want and how much time you have.
Why mixed reviews: some guests find the experience short for the price or wish for more thrills, while others love the views and the zipline. Set expectations accordingly: this is a polished, safety-minded park rather than a wilderness expedition. Wear closed shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and book a time that gives you buffer before your ship leaves.
Planning: it is on the Dutch side, so it pairs naturally with Philipsburg, Simpson Bay and Maho. Check the product page for age, weight and health requirements for the zipline before you book, and for transfers or meeting points. If you are traveling with younger children, the Sky Explorer is usually the easiest piece to enjoy together.
What to expect
The experience
A ticketed adventure park with a scenic chairlift ride and a zipline, with optional add-on rides sold as combinations.
Best time
Morning slots are cooler and leave time for the beach afterward; check the product page for current times.
How long
Allow two to three hours including check-in and waiting between rides.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and sun protection, check weight and age limits for the zipline, and book a slot with a comfortable buffer before any ship departure.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and thrill-seekers who want something active without a long excursion.
- Families
- The Sky Explorer is the easy shared ride; the zipline has weight and age limits.
- Couples
- Take the chairlift for the views, then the zipline if you both want the rush.
- Pair with
- Philipsburg shopping, Maho Beach or a late lunch in Simpson Bay.
- Time needed
- About half a day including transport.
Good questions
What is the difference between the Sky Explorer and the Flying Dutchman?+
The Sky Explorer is a scenic chairlift ride with wide views, while the Flying Dutchman is a zipline for thrill-seekers. Combination tickets cover both.
Is it worth the price?+
Reviews are mixed, with an average just under four stars on booking sites. Many guests enjoy the views and zipline, while some feel it is short for the price.
Is it good for children?+
The Sky Explorer is generally the easiest ride for families, and the zipline has age and weight limits listed on the product page. Check the requirements before you book.
Can I combine it with other rides?+
Yes. The park also sells combinations with Sentry Hill and a schooner ride, so you can scale the adventure up or down.
Is it suitable for cruise passengers?+
Yes, many cruise guests visit, and it is on the Dutch side. Book a slot that leaves a comfortable margin before all-aboard time.