Hotel in St. Maarten

[melindda]

Hi, I would like to know where in St. Maarten does the Surf dock. Windstar does offer the Hotel Beach Plaza in Marigot for a pre-cruise stay, is that far from where the Wind Surf docks? I would appreciate any info on whether to take that option or to possibly look at some other choices.

[ducklite]

As far as I know, none of the cruise ships doc in Marigot, but rather Philipsburg. Marigot is on the French side ,, quaint and lovely while Philipsburg is on the Dutch side with a different although still enjoyable feel.

 

It's about half an hour drive (if memory serves) through an unprotected, open border (no customs or immigration in either direction) between them. If you want to gamble, the casinos are in Philipsburg.

 

I have a strong preference for Marigot, the restaurants are amazing--world class.

[6rugrats]

I don't know what Windstar is charging, but it's usually much more expensive than just booking a hotel yourself. Look at Hotel L'Esplanade or Le Petit Hotel.

[melindda]

Wouldn't staying in Phillipsburg be a better choice to keep me closer to the ship rather than going to Marigot?

[AirbusPat]

We wanted to stay out by the airport, nice beach and hanging out at the "sunset beach bar and grill" is a lot of fun. Problem was there was not much available and the room prices were quite high.

 

We will stay in Phillipsburg which is Ok, at least it is walking distance to the ship.

[6rugrats]

Windstar used to board at Marigot. When did it change?

[ducklite]

Wouldn't staying in Phillipsburg be a better choice to keep me closer to the ship rather than going to Marigot?

 

It's a short and inexpensive cab ride between the two (about five miles). St. Maarten/Ste. Martin traffic moves along in my experience, so I wouldn't let that sway my decision.

 

And if 6rugrats is correct and Windstar docks in Marigot, it's kind of a no-brainer unless you want to gamble.

[melindda]

Thanks for all your help, ship leaves from Phillipsburg as per Windstar. We have decided to stay in Phillipsburg area for one night. Seems to be a bit easier and I was not thrilled about Windstars preferred hotel.

[2LoveToTravel]

We are taking Wind Surf on Feb 4th out of St Martin. She leaves from Phillipsburg (Dutch side)this year. Last time we took this cruise (Jan 2010)it was out of Marigot (French side) because it was the Wind Spirit (smaller ship out of smaller port) They changed the ships this year. As far as the hotel, we are staying at the Sonesta Great Bay ($210 night) since we are flying in the day before. It is not far from the cruise port. Hope this helps. Have a great time on Wind Surf. The ports on this cruise are wonderful. They are places that the larger ships cannot visit for the most part. The rooms have just been refurbished. This will be our 8th Wind Star voyage. They are the best! Like being on a private yacht!:)