Tintamarre, also called Flat Island, is a low, uninhabited island a few miles off the eastern shore of St. Martin, inside the waters of the island's nature reserve. Its appeal is the opposite of Orient Bay: no resorts, no beach clubs and very little development, just pale sand, scrub, clear shallow water and a view back toward the hills of the main island. Boat trips here are usually built around snorkeling, and the water around Tintamarre is known for seagrass beds where green turtles feed, as well as patches of reef with the usual Caribbean reef fish. The trip linked here is a motorboat cruise whose route also takes in Long Bay and Creole Rock, so it works as a sampler of the north-eastern coast as well as a visit to the island itself. Because the departure point, timing and stops are set by the operator, read the trip details before you book and plan your return carefully if you are on a cruise day.
Why go
Most visitors see St. Maarten and St. Martin from the road or from a beach chair. A boat to Tintamarre shows you the island from the water and gives you a few hours somewhere that feels genuinely remote. The island sits in a protected marine area, so the emphasis is on looking rather than touching: you float over seagrass and coral, watch for turtles coming up to breathe and swim over sandy patches where rays and small fish gather.
For snorkelers who want more than a crowded beach reef, it is one of the best easy outings on the island.
What a typical trip looks like
You board a motorboat, run along the coast to the first snorkel stop, then continue to Tintamarre for a longer swim and beach time before heading back. Some operators serve a drink or light snack on board, and masks, snorkels and fins are normally provided, but inclusions differ by trip, so confirm what you get.
The crossing can be bumpy when the Atlantic swell is up, so people prone to seasickness should take precautions and sit toward the back. Sun is strong and shade on the island is limited, so bring a hat, reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest if you burn easily. Take only what you can carry in a small dry bag.
Choosing your day
Calm mornings give the best visibility and the smoothest ride. Winter is the most dependable season for flat seas, while summer and early autumn can bring afternoon showers and occasional cancellations in rough weather. Water that looks gin-clear from the boat can still surprise a weak swimmer with a current, so use the life vest offered by the crew if you are not confident.
Children who swim well can enjoy it, but check the minimum age for the trip. The island is also a protected area, which means you should follow the guide's instructions on where to anchor, where to swim and how close to get to turtles.
Cruise-day advice
This is a half-day outing, usually around four hours, so it can fit a port call, but only if you leave a generous margin before all-aboard time. Boat trips can run late and the ride back to the cruise port by taxi adds more time. If your ship leaves in the late afternoon, book a morning departure and confirm the return time with the operator before you pay.
What to expect
The experience
A guided motorboat cruise along the north-east coast with snorkel stops and beach time on Tintamarre.
Best time
Morning departures usually have the calmest water and clearest visibility.
How long
Plan on about four hours, plus transfers to and from the departure point.
Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a small dry bag, and take seasickness tablets in advance if you need them.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Snorkelers who want a quiet island instead of a busy beach.
- Families
- Good for confident swimmers; check the minimum age and life-vest policy before booking.
- Couples
- A relaxed, scenic outing with a quiet beach stop away from the crowds.
- Pair with
- Pinel Island or an evening in Grand Case.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
What is Tintamarre?+
Tintamarre, or Flat Island, is a low, uninhabited island off the east coast of St. Martin within the island's protected marine area. It is known for clear shallow water, seagrass beds with turtles and a quiet beach with no resorts.
Will I see turtles?+
Turtles are often seen over the seagrass around the island, but wildlife can never be guaranteed. Keep a respectful distance, never touch them and follow the guide's instructions.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You should be comfortable in open water. Life vests are normally available, and snorkel stops are in relatively shallow areas, but currents can pick up, so ask the crew if you are unsure.
Is it suitable for a cruise day?+
Yes, as long as you pick a morning departure and confirm the return time. Leave a generous buffer before your ship sails, because boat trips and traffic can both run late.
What should I bring?+
Swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a rash vest and a small dry bag. Check whether snorkel gear, water and snacks are included before you go.
