Island Water Taxi
Great alternative going to Center City...

When one thinks of the broader term of "water taxi", immediately numerous waterways come to mind. However, besides the coastal tenders catering to the surrounding islands, and that which operates in the Simpson's bay lagoon, St Maarten has only one other water service.

Bobby's marina has been providing transportation to Philipsburg for decades. Their boats of simple opened air rustic style allows you to sit back and listen to the carefully selected Caribbean music as you're whisked away for the approximately seven minute ride.

It is common knowledge that with its fleet of brightly colored boats, the main purpose of the Philipsburg water taxi is to tender to and from the cruise ships. It operates between the cruise facility and the center of Philipsburg constantly until the cruises depart in the evening.

It offers visitors the opportunity to choose between the many transportation avenues available at the Claude Wathey docks. Of course there are tours buses, taxis, and in addition there is a nicely paved walkway that takes about twenty minutes to get to Philipsurg.

The Philipsburg Island water taxi is a great alternative to walking or taking the ride to town buy a regular taxi. Those willing to spend the extra buck can purchase a fare that entitles you to unlimited rides on that particular day for just six dollars. I have known people who would rather walk and save the extra. A family of six can use the $36 for umbrellas and lunch once they got to the Great Bay Beach. The choice is entirely personal. I for one would walk and save the dime.

There are two drop off locations. The choice to go to one or the other depends on the boat that you depart on but more importantly what your plans are for the day.

It is important that you tell the operator what you want to do for the day to help you make that decision. Those who will be shopping and not necessarily interested in the beach should get off at the Green house. This is the head of Philipsburg where the shopping starts at one end of Front street.

If you're on the island for a beach excursion, although it is not absolutely necessarily, you might want to go to the small pier smack dab at center city near the court house and then make your way in either way in the direction of your choice.