Saint Martin has long been one of our favorite places for a Caribbean winter getaway or spring fling. We went for the first time almost twenty years ago. It was in January to celebrate our twenty-fifth anniversary, and we have been back several times since.
One thing that the island is famous for is its split personality. We say that because this little place is governed by both France and the Netherlands, making it the smallest island in the world to be occupied by two countries. Enjoying the differences between the two sides is one of our favorite things to do on St. Martin.
The Dutch side has a more night-life and active fun vibe, while the French area is a bit more laid back and well, French. But whether it’s watching jumbo jets land just a few feet overhead on Maho Beach, or having some of the best French food we ever ate in the quiet little beach town of Grand Case, both sides have plenty to love.
Now we’re thinking that it might just be time for another visit. The last time we were there we discovered that perhaps the perfect way to explore all sides of Saint Martin is from a catamaran out on the sea. So we looked again and this time found that PyratZ has just what we were looking for, ready and waiting to sail out on an adventure.
Just to be clear though, these aren’t party boats, but you will have a blast. They are private or shared boat charters with a luxury touch. Choose a sunset cruise, a half or full day, or even a week onboard and you will be pampered with amazing activities, cool cocktails, gourmet dining, and unbelievable views of the Leeward Islands. This is all a part of their three key pillars: Gastronomy, Discovery, and Sustainability.
Let’s take a closer look:
Gastronomy
Your authentic private dining experience onboard any PyratZ charter features a menu that expertly combines French and Caribbean flavors. Savor the flavors of French Cheeses and Charcuterie, Mushrooms Velouté with fresh local mushrooms, a tantalizing Tropical Salad, and top it off with a sizzling steak or grilled local lobster. It will be a meal to remember.
Discovery
We think the very best thing to discover around Saint Martin is the incredible world just below the surface of the sea. Perfect, because all PyratZ charters have top quality snorkels, masks, and fins on board and waiting for whenever you are ready to dive in and explore the undersea world of reefs and exotic sea life.
Each boat also has paddle boards and kayaks for those of us who might want to check out what’s going on above the waves. Or we think just a relaxing drift on a noodle or a floating mat is a pretty good way to spend an afternoon in the Caribbean too. Of course, all of this is done with an eye on safety and Responsible Tourism. Your captain will instruct everyone on the ins and outs of responsible yachting and respect for marine life and the coastal eco systems and communities. Which brings us to the third pillar:
Sustainability
PyratZ was started with the direct intention of supporting sustainable tourism and strives to minimize their footprint as much as possible. This can be seen in the fuel efficient fleet, their commitment to eliminate single-use plastics onboard and collaborate with local eco-friendly and ethically sourced businesses, artisans, and suppliers. They are also involved in partnerships with organizations dedicated to marine cleanup initiatives, and in keeping safe and fair working conditions, and career opportunities for the crews and staff. We are more than happy to be onboard with all of that.
We should certainly point out that all of these fantastic features are not only available on Saint Martin. No, there are many nearby islands worth discovering. We found that anguilla yacht charters is a great place to start any of those adventures if the British Virgin Islands, or maybe Saint Barths are calling out to you.
Of course you will find the same attention to detail and exceptional service as on Saint Martin.
So ahoy matey, let’s cast off for a vacation with memories that will last a lifetime.
David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com
Thanks for this great guide.