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Old 03-14-2008, 07:09 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #1 (permalink)
St. Maarten

Phillipsburg, St. Maarten

This is our third port of call. This way as we find out what different things there are to do or what we are interested in we can post it here.

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 03-26-2008, 01:01 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #2 (permalink)
Here are our online options at MSC.

Shore Excursion

SMT01 - BEACH BREAKDuration about 3 hours
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy some relaxing time at typical Caribbean beach. Enjoy a short but scenic drive from the Dutch Capitol of Phillipsburg through the St Maarten countryside passing through the local villages. You’ll arrive at a typical Caribbean beach where you’ll be shown the facilities and offered a welcome drink before going down to the beach. You may like to relax on your beach chair on the beautiful white sand, soak up the sun and swim in the clear waters of the ocean. At the scheduled time the transportation will return you to the ship. Enjoy a delightful day on the beach!

Price per person starting from: US$ 30 Adults - US$ 27 Children



SMT02 - HORSEBACK AND BEACH Duration about 5 hours
After a short, scenic drive from the harbor the group will be welcomed at Lucky Stables, given the safety briefing, issued with the compulsory riding helmets and assigned to a horse comparable to each person’s comfort and level of experience.
For the next hour and a quarter discover and enjoy the protected nature areas, and the flora and fauna while riding on the winding trails leading to a magnificent lookout point overlooking the ships in the harbor. The highlight of the tour is then riding the horses on the shores and in the water at Cay Bay Beach. Free time to relax and swim. Please note that life vests will be issued for the beach riding portion of the tour and that you will definitely get wet so please dress appropriately. Children under 12 years are not permitted on this tour and there is also a weight limit of 250 lbs. All participants will be required to sign a release form. There are inherent risks involved in horseback riding and participants should be aware of this before deciding to participate. Bottled water is supplied to each guest and long pants with sensible shoes are recommended.
Price per person starting from: US$ 94 Adults - US$ 85 Children



SMT03 - ATV EXPERIENCEDuration about 3 ½ hours
You’re off on an adventure that traditional cruise passengers have never experienced! Depart your cruise ship with the enthusiasm and anticipation of an Old World explorer as you join a small but elite group of like-minded, fun-seeking adventures to embark on the Caribbean’s newest, maddest island exploration on your personal all–terrain vehicle, commonly referred to as an ATV.It’s just a short and pleasant drive through the Dutch Capitol of Phillipsburg to the kick-off location where our adventurers will be briefed and outfitted with the necessary safety equipment. Then our convoy of unique vehicles will set off to explore some areas of the island stopping at scenic points where appropriate, then time for refreshments at a specially selected beach with plenty of time for a quick dip. After a refreshing swim or stress-busting walk along the beach, we’re off again and just to make sure the return trip is equally enjoyable we’re taking you back via a completely different – and just as scenic- route to the kick-off point.
You called for excitement. We answered. Loudly. Don’t miss this great opportunity to see St Maarten in a most unique way.

Note: The Minimum age to operate an ATV is 18 and drivers are required to wear a helmet while the ATV is being operated. Persons with any physical or medical conditions should not participate due to the nature of the tour.

Price per person starting from: US$ 72 Adults -


SMT04 - PANORAMIC TOUR AND SHOPPINGDuration about 2 ½ hours
Leaving the pier you will be whisked away into the serenity of this beautiful Caribbean island with so much European influence. Passing through the Dutch capitol of Philipsburg you will drive past the famous salt ponds, through the picturesque countryside for your first stop at Cole Bay hill offering a wonderful view of the marinas and the neighbouring islands.
You will continue through the typical Caribbean villages and before you know it you will have arrived in the French colonial capitol of Marigot and your guide will prepare you for a one and a half hour stop where you can browse and stroll amid the quaint boutiques and outdoor markets. Leaving Marigot the tour proceeds to Grand Case known as the “gourmet capitol” of the Caribbean and then you will drive by the ever-popular Orient Beach well known for its clothing optional policy in some areas. A short stop will be made at the Cole Bay lookout with a spectacular view of Simpson Bay. You continue driving through the St Maarteen countryside and townships before stopping at the Village Plantation. Here you will enjoy a coffee accompanied by a croissant.

Price per person starting from: US$ 35 Adults - US$ 32 Children


SMT05 - HARLEY DAVIDSONDuration about 5 hours
It does not matter whether you’re a two-wheeled novice or a seasoned road veteran, we can offer you the ride of your life that will combine the pure American look that began when the original founders were cruising the streets of Milwaukee with the wild nature of this Caribbean island.After departing the harbor by bus you will enjoy the scenic drive through Phillipsburg the Dutch Capitol, over the Cole Bay Hill to the “Harley Davidson World” shop, where you will make the difficult selection between the legendary “Fat Boy” bike and the classic “Heritage”.
After brief formalities and helmets are issued you will follow your guide on a scenic tour past the Simpson Bay Marina, home to many luxurious mega yachts, through Maho and Mullet Bay and the lowlands famous for its appeal to many visiting celebrities.
After the convoy arrives in Marigot, the French capitol, you will have the opportunity to see and visit Ft. Louis, then enjoy a light lunch and a little time to browse the shops and markets before continuing the ride across the north coast of the island through the restaurant capitol, Grand Case and then time for a quick dip at a popular beach at Orient Bay well known for their clothing optional policy in some areas.
After this refreshing break the group will drive by Mount William Hill which offers a panoramic view of Phillipsburg, through the countryside and back to the kick-off point where the buses will be waiting to take you back to the ship.

Notes: A light lunch, two bottles of water and one soft drink are included on this tour. There will be a guide in front and an escort jeep in the back. Make sure to bring your credit card and current motorcycle license to complete the rental contract. The tour price is per bike and includes CDW insurance with a $1000.00 deductible. The deductible is fully or partially charged to the driver’s credit card in the event the motorcycle is returned damaged.

Price per person starting from: US$ 392 Adults -


SMT06 - LAND AND SEADuration about 4 hours
Enjoy St Maarten from the deck of a luxurious catamaran and the seat of a Swiss Army Jeep.First step aboard the catamaran at the pier and sail along the coast of St. Maarten. See various points along the coastline as you head towards Simpson Bay with the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair. Arriving at Simpson Bay you will transfer to the ex-army, gaily colored, open-air jeeps that have been especially converted to operate sightseeing tours. Guests will be assigned to each vehicle and the driver / guide will point out places of interest, give a narration over the P.A. system and ensure that everyone has a good time.
Arriving in Marigot, the French Capital, you have a short stop to explore the open air markets and shops. The fun in the sun continues as the convoy breezes along the country roads through Grand Case, a popular fishing village, home to many fine restaurants and then to a local beach for time to bask in the sun or swim in the surf.The tour terminates at the Village Plantation where you can use the rest rooms and browse. When you are ready, just board one of the transfer buses that will take you back to the pier.

Note: This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or passengers with neck and back injuries. It is not a self-driven tour and each vehicle has a driver/ guide.

Price per person starting from: US$ 79 Adults - US$ 71 Children


SMT07 - CATAMARAN, SNORKELING AND BEACH TOURDuration about 5 hours
Here’s a chance to savor St Maartens’ wonderful aquatic life in combination with time at one of its beautiful beaches. Depending upon your sailing departure you can either head to the beach in the morning, then take the snorkeling catamaran or go snorkeling and then hit the beach.
Experience the beautifully appointed snorkeling and sailing catamaran. Sit back, relax and enjoy Caribbean music as you delight in the short but scenic cruise along the coastline. On arrival at a special anchorage certified instructors will give a safety briefing and an informative orientation explaining the use of the snorkel equipment then you will have approx one hour to discover the beautiful reefs, colorful coral and marine life or simply swim, sunbathe or relax on deck listening to the island music. On the return trip, rum or fruit punch and soft drinks will be served as you enjoy the balmy breezes in either the sun or shade. Back on shore you can now take the bus to one of St Maartens’ beautiful beaches. Here, spend your time enjoying the sun, sand and sea. You can eat ribs and unlimited rum or fruit punch.
Then hop on the bus and return to the Village Plantation. Here you have a farewell drink and use the rest rooms. When you are ready, take one of the transfer buses back to the pier at you leisure.

NOTE: Don’t forget to bring a towel, cover up, sun screen and hat.Children must be accompanied by an adult. Catamaran entry into the water is directly from the craft.

Price per person starting from: US$ 86 Adults - US$ 78 Children

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 03-26-2008, 01:02 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #3 (permalink)
SMT10 - EXPLORER CRUISE & GRAND ISLAND TOUR Duration about 4 hours
This is the only tour offering a great party cruise on the lagoon with open bar, great music as well as shopping time in Marigot. Also includes a scenic Grand island tour aboard air-conditioned luxury coaches with knowled-geable guides describing the history and sights of the two cultures of the island.
This complete tour departs from the cruise ship pier where the guides will meet and escort you to the nearby coaches for the drive to Marigot via a view stop at Orient beach lookout.
You join the Explorer double decked party boat which waits while you spend time browsing in Marigot, or just relaxing sipping a ice cold drink enjoying the views of Marina Royale.
From the Marina we cruise the Simpson bay lagoon passing the luxury villa’s and mega yachts which visit the many marina’s situated in the calm waters of the lagoon.
With music and great drinks we cruise past Port de Plasaince to Simpson bay Marina docking at the Explorer private dock where the coaches wait for the short return drive with views of the cruise ships and Phillipsburg.

Price per person starting from: US$ 65 Adults - US$ 59 Children


SMT11 - “ AMERICA’S CUP” 12 METRE YACHTDuration about 4 hours
This is the only tour offering a great party cruise on the lagoon with open bar, great music as well as shopping time in Marigot. Also includes a scenic Grand island tour aboard air-conditioned luxury coaches with knowled-geable guides describing the history and sights of the two cultures of the island.
This complete tour departs from the cruise ship pier where the guides will meet and escort you to the nearby coaches for the drive to Marigot via a view stop at Orient beach lookout.
You join the Explorer double decked party boat which waits while you spend time browsing in Marigot, or just relaxing sipping a ice cold drink enjoying the views of Marina Royale.
From the Marina we cruise the Simpson bay lagoon passing the luxury villa’s and mega yachts which visit the many marina’s situated in the calm waters of the lagoon.
With music and great drinks we cruise past Port de Plasaince to Simpson bay Marina docking at the Explorer private dock where the coaches wait for the short return drive with views of the cruise ships and Phillipsburg.

Price per person starting from: US$ 94 Adults - US$ 85 Children


SMT12 - PANORAMIC TOUR OF ST MAARTEN AND BEACH Duration about 4 hours
As soon as you depart the harbor in the air conditioned buses you will start to enjoy the charm and scenery of this dual personality island which has been flying the flags of both Holland and France since 1648.
You will drive from Phillipsburg, the Dutch capitol past the Great Salt Pond, through the countryside. The tour then continues past the Border Monument indicating arrival at the French side, into the district of Orleans, the former French Capitol then continues through several quaint towns and fishing villages, including Grand Case known for its lovely beaches and exquisite restaurants then across the north side of the island for a short stop at Marigot, the French capital, where you will observe a truly European atmosphere as you browse its waterside open-air markets, quaint shops, boutiques and sidewalk cafés.
After your brief sojourn in Marigot you will continue to a typical local beach where you will have approximately 1.5 hrs to enjoy the sun and surf or take a stress-busting walk along the beach.
On the return trip you will enjoy a truly spectacular view of Simpson Bay as you drive over the Cole Bay Hill and then enjoy a stop at The Village. Here you can use the restrooms and enjoy refreshment or browse around. Take one of the transfer buses back to the pier.

Note: The order of the tour may be reversed depending upon local traffic conditions. Wear your swimsuits under your clothes and bring a towel, sunscreen and sun glasses.

Price per person starting from: US$ 37 Adults - US$ 33 Children

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 03-26-2008, 01:47 PM rabelgirls is offline     #4 (permalink)
Thanks for the heads up on all of the excursions. I can't really find anything on their website. What I can find takes forever to load. I think Dolores is sending me a book about them, so I can't wait to get it in my grubby little hands. There are a couple that I think the girls would like. Anything shopping related is right up Elizabeth's and Bailey's alley.



Old 03-26-2008, 02:21 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #5 (permalink)
We can also look at what the others on the board have listed as things to see in these ports. So far beach is on my list.

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 03-26-2008, 04:44 PM Cruise Planner is offline     #6 (permalink)
You don't need to spend alot of money doing the shore excursions you've listed. For example; the Harley Davidson tour you can do through the Harley dealer and save alot of money!

We like to rent a car (runs about $45 - $75 per day depending on the time of year you're going) and do our own thing. Sure beats the high price of an excursion and we can go where we want, stay as long as we want, and return on our time instead of theirs. We'll go to Merigot and shop at the flea market, then head over to Orient Beach for some time in the sun.

Pete

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Old 03-26-2008, 05:58 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #7 (permalink)
Thanks Pete. I do plan to do more on my own then I would through the ship. This is just what is offered.

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 03-26-2008, 08:25 PM rabelgirls is offline     #8 (permalink)
I agree with the above posters. After spending a fortune on my first two cruises, I did a little research and did local excursions last year which were more affordable. However, you can have just as much fun just roaming around the shops, straw markets and the like on the islands.



Old 03-26-2008, 11:09 PM Mystery Gal is offline     #9 (permalink)
I think the only time I did a ship excursion was in Alaska. It was one well worth it. Otherwise I usually do it on my own. It is nice to see what the ship has so you know what is offered on the islands.

My Signature
Helen
Cruise Countdown Christmas Cruise: MSC Lirica in
Past Cruises Jubilee 01/98, Amsterdam 07/02, Vision 01/03, Star Princess 5/03, Navigator 11/03, Rhapsody 10/04, Fantasy 10/06, MSC Lirica 12/08


Old 04-19-2008, 07:28 PM rabelgirls is offline     #10 (permalink)
Has anyone else found anything else to do here? I am goin to start looking into land based excursions and get everything set so I don't have to worry about it anymore. I just want this to be memorable for the girls.



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