Cruises to Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Caribbean Waters. Dutch Delights.

With an area of only 37 square miles, the island of St. Maarten is the smallest landmass in the world to be divided between two governments. The southern Dutch half offers casinos, duty-free shopping and island culture. The French half is all subdued sophistication.

Exciting Shore Excursions

Immerse yourself in authentic experiences with our Shore Excursions, expertly guided by locals.

Snapshots of Philipsburg, St. Maarten

A visual preview of the amazing sites that await you.

Seat at overlook viewpoint over Philipsburg in Sint Maarten St Martin Caribbean

Find your holiday spot.

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, cityscape at the Great Salt Pond.

Take it all in at St. Maarten.

Two beautiful carribean maccaws on exotic beach at Saona island, Dominican Republic

Keep an eye out for the colourful locals.

Soft sands and warm waters.

Lionfish.

Travel Tips & Interesting Info

Uncover Hidden Gems & Fun Facts

cannons in remains of historic Fort Amsterdam overlooking Philipsburg and Great Bay on the dutch side of caribbean island Sint Maarten

Famous For

Philipsburg has 50 unique dive locations. Kayak to secret coves then visit Fort Amsterdam and see border monuments.

BBQ Ribs cooking on a grill by the road side on St. Maarten Island.

Exquisite Flavors

Be sure to try the juicy, spice-rubbed BBQ ribs and sweet, fried Johnny cakes. Fresh, zesty guavaberry coladas keep you refreshed.

Fun Facts

St. Maarten was spotted by Christopher Columbus in 1493. But the island's real history began with French and Dutch settlers who divided the island in 1648.

Port Name & Location

Port of St. Maarten
Ship will DOCK at this port.

Language

The local language is Dutch, French, Spanish and English. Say "hello" in Spanish: "hola", Dutch: "hallo", French: "bonjour"

Time Zone

AST (Atlantic Standard Time)
UTC/GMT -4 hours

Currency & Shopping

Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG)
Tax and duty-free on jewellery electronics and fashion. View our Port Shopping Guide.

Featured Philipsburg Itineraries

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Learn More about Philipsburg

Tips on What to Pack for Your Cruise

Packing for a cruise aboard Norwegian Cruise Line should feel easy because the days ahead will be. Think clothes that don’t rush you, shoes that don’t argue with you, and shorts that work well at noon and at sunset. Out here, it’s less about outfits and more about options. Things you can move in. Breathe in. Accidentally nap in. So before you overthink it (you know you will), here’s the simple truth: if it lets the day take you where it wants to go, pack it. If it doesn’t, leave it home (along with your agenda).

Observation Lounge couple strolling-Alaska.

Cruise Tips: What to Expect on Embarkation Day

If you're reading this article, then most likely your cruise vacation date with Norwegian is quickly sailing your way! Embarkation day is very exciting and involves a lot of moving parts as guests check in and board, luggage is delivered to staterooms, and you get settled in and explore the ship. One of the many great things about sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line is that they have worked hard to ensure that the embarkation process goes as smoothly as possible.

What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise

Ready to start packing for your Caribbean cruise? Here's a handy list of what to wear (and what to leave behind).

Discover Philipsburg, St. Maarten