One of the island's biggest advantages is its position. Within a short boat ride you can be on a different island, with a different flag, a different atmosphere and often a different beach. The challenge is choosing, because the main options are very different in length, cost and character. This guide compares the four most popular boat days and explains how to fit one into your trip.
Anguilla: the easy beach day
Anguilla lies a short crossing north of St. Martin and is known for flat, powder-white beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Group trips such as the Anguilla Getaway Cruise typically combine a sea crossing with swimming, snorkeling or beach time and lunch, and they suit first-timers who want a simple day. Because Anguilla is a separate territory, you will clear immigration and need a valid passport, and a small departure or port fee may be collected in cash. Choose a group trip for value or a private charter for flexibility. Plan a full day of about seven to nine hours.
St. Barths: the long, special-occasion day
St. Barths is the glamorous French island to the south-east, known for yachts, boutiques and the harbor town of Gustavia. The crossing is longer and can be bumpy, so it suits travelers who are comfortable on the water. The sailing trip is a roughly nine-hour day, so treat it as your entire day. Bring your passport, check entry rules, take seasickness tablets if you need them and expect to pay a separate port fee. It is the best choice for travelers who want a big outing and a taste of luxury, and it is less suited to children or anyone who dislikes long boat rides.
Pinel Island: the quick snorkel
Pinel is a tiny island off the French side's east coast, reached by a short boat ride and known for calm, shallow water, small beach restaurants and easy snorkeling. The snorkel cruise from the island takes about four hours, which makes it the best option for a half-day. It is a good choice for families, beginners and anyone who wants a relaxed beach and a short boat trip, and it combines well with an afternoon in Orient Bay or Grand Case.
Tintamarre: the wild island
Tintamarre, also known as Flat Island, is an uninhabited island with clear water, seagrass beds and a quiet beach. It sits within the island's protected marine area, so the emphasis is on looking, not touching. A motorboat trip takes in snorkeling stops and beach time and is usually about four hours. It is the best choice for snorkelers who want a more natural setting than Pinel, and it is a good pick for couples and active travelers.
How to choose
If you want a beach day with little effort, choose Anguilla. If you want to celebrate and enjoy the sailing, choose St. Barths. If you have a half-day or want an easy swim, choose Pinel. If you want quiet nature and turtles, choose Tintamarre. If you have two days to spare, combine a long trip with a short one, ideally separated by a rest day.
Passports, entry rules and timing
Anguilla and St. Barths are separate territories with their own entry procedures, so bring your passport and check current requirements before you travel. Pinel and Tintamarre are on the French side's reserve and do not require a border crossing. Departures are typically in the morning, and some trips collect guests from hotels while others meet at a marina, so confirm the meeting point and timing when you book.
Cruise-day advice
If you are on a cruise stop, choose a shorter trip and a morning departure. Confirm the return time with the operator, leave a generous buffer before all-aboard and avoid long crossings unless the operator guarantees your return in good time. Weather can delay or cancel boats, so keep a backup plan on land.
What to bring
Swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light layer, a dry bag and seasickness tablets if you are prone to motion sickness. Cash is useful for port fees and small purchases. Check whether snorkel gear, drinks and lunch are included before you go, and read the details of any trip carefully so there are no surprises on the day.
